Great Dane Dog BreedingFind the Perfect Match

Mandatory tests include: Hip X-rays (OFA or PennHIP), Cardiac evaluation by cardiologist - critical for detecting DCM. Highly recommended: Thyroid panel (OFA), Eye examination (CERF/OFA), Elbow X-rays. Consider prophylactic gastropexy to prevent bloat.

Bloat (Gastric Dilatation Volvulus) is the #1 killer of Great Danes. The stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood supply. Death occurs within HOURS. Prevention: gastropexy surgery, feed 3-4 small meals, no exercise near meals, know emergency vet locations 24/7.

Great Danes typically live only 7-10 years due to their giant size. Common causes of early death: bloat (GDV), dilated cardiomyopathy (heart disease), bone cancer, and wobbler syndrome. Giant size comes with terrible health consequences - many die by age 6-8.

Harlequin x Harlequin can produce dead white puppies. Merle x Merle is LETHAL - produces blind/deaf puppies. Understand color genetics before breeding. Fawn, brindle, black, blue, harlequin, and mantle are standard colors. Each has specific breeding rules.

Breeding Great Danes is extremely expensive. Health testing alone costs $2000-3000 (cardiac, hips, thyroid, eyes). Gastropexy surgery $1000-3000. C-sections common for giant breeds $2000-4000. Puppy food/vet care $500+/puppy. Emergency bloat surgery can cost $5000-8000.

Wait until 2.5-3 years for full maturity - Great Danes grow until 2-3 years old. Females: 2.5-5 years (limited window due to short lifespan). Males: 2.5-6 years. Many die by 7-8, making timing critical. Never breed before 2 years - bones still developing.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a deadly heart disease common in Great Danes where the heart becomes enlarged and weak. Often causes sudden death without warning. Annual cardiac screening by a cardiologist is essential. Some lines have higher DCM rates - research pedigrees carefully.

Great Danes typically have 8-10 puppies per litter, though litters can range from 1-15 puppies. Large litters increase risk of complications. C-sections are common due to puppy size. Newborns weigh 1-2 lbs and grow rapidly, requiring careful monitoring to prevent developmental issues.

Wobbler syndrome (cervical spondylomyelopathy) affects the spine/neck, causing wobbly gait and weakness. Common in Great Danes due to their long necks and rapid growth. Can lead to paralysis. Prevention: proper nutrition during growth, avoid neck trauma, breed dogs with good neck conformation.

Only breed if: You've completed ALL health testing ($2000-3000), understand color genetics to avoid lethal combinations, have emergency funds for bloat/C-sections, can handle the heartbreak of short lifespans, have homes for 8-10 giant puppies, and are prepared for potential loss of your dog during breeding.

Wait until at least 18-24 months for Great Danes to ensure proper bone development. Early spay/neuter increases risk of bone cancer and joint problems in giant breeds. Discuss timing with your vet considering individual health factors.

Feeding a Great Dane costs $100-200+ monthly for quality food. Adults eat 6-10 cups daily depending on size and activity. Puppy food costs are higher due to special giant breed formulas needed for proper growth rate control.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) affects many Great Danes, causing heart enlargement and failure. Annual cardiac screening with echocardiogram by a cardiologist is essential. Early detection allows management with medications to extend quality life.

Great Danes can thrive in apartments despite their size! They're calm indoor dogs requiring moderate exercise (30-60 minutes daily). Their low energy indoors makes them better apartment dogs than many smaller, high-energy breeds.