The Great Dane, also known as the German Mastiff or German Hound, is a dog breed known for its great size and gentle personality. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale considers it the “Apollo among all breeds.”
And indeed, it is a fascinating dog that has always stood alongside humans throughout the centuries. During this time, it has performed the roles of hunter, guardian, defender and, of course, ARISTODOG.
As early as Ancient Egypt, we find statues of dogs similar to the mastiff in the tombs of the pharaohs; in Assyrian bas-reliefs, in big-game hunting scenes; the ancient Romans, in addition to the mastiff used in combat, had other dogs that were equally large but more agile: we probably owe their spread throughout Europe, including Britain, to them. In medieval prints and engravings from different European countries, we find depictions of dogs that are undoubtedly German mastiffs.
They were valued and later bred above all in Germany, and the Germans managed to improve the breed, partly through crosses with local dogs. The product of these crosses was initially called english dogge (English dog), but they soon turned it into their national breed, probably thanks, among others, to the famous chancellor Otto von Bismarck, who was often seen accompanied by dogs of this breed.
However, according to some authors, this name does not derive from the country of origin (it is interesting to note that there is no record of any particular attention being paid to this breed by the Danes), but rather from the fact that these dogs were mainly tan in color, that is, blond, without a mask, with long legs and a strong trunk. In other words, the same characteristics presumed to belong to the inhabitants of Denmark.
In the second half of the 19th century, the name deutsche dogge (that is, German dog) was definitively coined. Meanwhile, it became a “national breed,” and it was established that all these dogs, which differed little from one another except in coat color, would be bred under a single name. Therefore, it is impossible to determine the exact place of origin of this breed or the varieties of dogs that contributed to its formation, although it is possible to identify the place where they became established as a breed.
What is the Great Dane like?
The Great Dane is bred in three independent varieties: fawn and brindle, harlequin and black, and blue. All have a short, dense, smooth and shiny coat. And all have the aristocratic appearance that characterizes this breed.
Its entire body conveys pride, strength and elegance. Despite its large proportions, it is a balanced and agile dog. In males, weight ranges from 54 to 90 kilos, and height at the withers is at least 80 centimeters and at most 90. In females, weight ranges from 45 to 59 kilos, while height at the withers is around 72 to 84 centimeters.
Its head is long and narrow, held erect on a long, dry, muscular neck. Its wide, strongly muscled croup also stands out, tempting the youngest members of the household to climb onto it. The tail is highly expressive, hanging downward at rest and forming a natural curve. When excited or moving, it takes on a slight saber-like carriage.
Its well-developed nose stands out on its face, wider than round and generally black. Its muzzle is deep and as rectangular as possible. Its jaw is wide, strong and well developed, while the cheek muscles are only slightly defined. By nature, its ears are pendant and tend to rest against the cheeks.
Its eyes are medium-sized, but we love their lively, intelligent and friendly expression. They say everything with just one look.
Despite its giant proportions, the Great Dane has harmonious, agile and elastic movement and is capable of covering a lot of ground. Watching it walk, with such style and poise, is a pleasure.
How does the Great Dane behave?
Despite its large and imposing size, those who know it understand that it is actually a friendly, affectionate dog devoted to its ARISTOFATHER. It may be somewhat reserved with strangers, but that soon passes once it gains confidence. As a companion dog, it is fantastic. Affectionate, self-confident, not easily frightened and gentle, when given the treatment it deserves.
How should you care for a Great Dane?
Because of its large size, the Great Dane does best in spacious areas, where it can exercise and feel freer. Although keeping one in an apartment or enclosed space is not too problematic either, as long as it is given considerable time each day so that it can exercise, tire itself out and maintain its inner balance.
Likewise, as a dog traditionally accustomed to carrying out hunting and defense tasks, the Great Dane requires training with a high stimulation threshold. It needs to feel useful and active, and likes to have “its place” in the home.
We hope you enjoyed getting to know this beautiful, enormous ARISTODOG better. If you would like to keep reading about other breeds, click here.