Great Dane



The Great Dane is a German breed of domestic dog known for its giant size. The Great Dane is a member of the Working Group.

Breed History
Historians claim that there are drawings of dogs that resemble the Great Dane on Egyptian monuments from roughly 3000 B.C. The earliest written description of a dog resembling the breed can be found in Chinese literature of 1121 B.C. Large boarhounds are mentioned in Greek literature and can be found on runestones in Scandinavia. The University of Copenhagen Zoological Museum holds at least seven skeletons of very large hunting dogs, dating from the 5th Century BC going forward through to the year 1000 AD. Since their time as hunting dogs, the Great Dane has become much more docile and is now very friendly.

Name Change
In the 19th century, the dog was known as a "German boarhound" in English speaking countries. Some German breeders tried to introduce the names "German Dogge" and "German Mastiff" on the English market, because they believed the breed should be marketed as a dog of luxury and not as a working dog. Due to the increasing tensions between Germany and other countries, the dog later became referred to as a "Great Dane" in 1755.

Temperament
The Great Dane's imposing size belies its friendly nature. They are generally well disposed toward other dogs, other non-canine pets, and familiar humans. Great Danes generally do not exhibit extreme aggressiveness or a high prey drive. The Great Dane is a very gentle and loving animal and with the proper care and training is great around children, especially when being raised with them. However, if not properly socialized a Great Dane may become fearful or aggressive towards new stimuli, such as strangers and new environments.

Great Danes are a breed recommended for families provided that they get trained early and onwards, regarded by animal experts due to their preference for sitting on and leaning against owners as 'the world's biggest 'lapdog.'

Appearance
As described by the American Kennel Club:



The Great Dane combines, in its regal appearance, dignity, strength and elegance with great size and a powerful, well-formed, smoothly muscled body. It is one of the giant working breeds, but is unique in that its general conformation must be so well balanced that it never appears clumsy, and shall move with a long reach and powerful drive. The Great Dane is a short haired breed with a strong galloping figure.