Overview
The Great Dane is one of the tallest breeds in the world, a German boar hound refined into a dignified companion. It carries a huge frame on a short coat in fawn, brindle, blue, black, harlequin or mantle, and it moves with a loose, ground-covering stride that makes most other dogs look busy.
Temperament is nearly always the breed's strong point. Danes are affectionate, calm and often a little goofy, and they rarely look for trouble. The challenge for a walker is physical: a dog that can put its head on a kitchen counter needs careful handling around people, other dogs and anything breakable.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day in two moderate walks suits most adults. Danes enjoy a short run and a sniff, then settle. They are not endurance dogs, and overheating comes quickly in a body this big.
Puppies and adolescents need protection from themselves. Growth is fast and long, and joints should not be pounded with long walks, stairs or jumping until the owner has the vet's go-ahead.
On the walk
- Lead handling: Mostly gentle, but a single lunge can take you off your feet. Keep the lead short around traffic and use a harness the owner has fitted.
- Other dogs: Usually kind and tolerant. The danger is accidental: a friendly swipe of a paw can flatten a terrier.
- Bloat: Deep-chested giants are prone to a twisted stomach. Avoid walks straight after meals and discourage gulping water on the move.
- Heat and cold: Thin coat, big body. Hot days need shade and short routes; cold wet days may call for a coat.
Tips for professional walkers
- Agree the timing between meals and walks with the owner and stick to it.
- Carry a towel for drool and a bowl for water, and offer small drinks rather than big ones.
- Keep greetings with small dogs and children calm; the tail alone can knock a toddler over.
- Lift-free loading into vehicles matters; use a ramp if the owner has one.
What to ask the owner
- How long after eating should the dog wait before a walk, and are there bloat warning signs you should know?
- Any heart, hip or joint diagnosis that limits distance, hills or stairs?
- How does the dog react to small dogs and children, and does it know a solid wait at kerbs?