Great Dane Overview
Origin: Germany
Despite its name, the Great Dane is a German breed developed from Mastiff-type dogs to hunt wild boar. Known as the "Apollo of dogs," this gentle giant is one of the tallest breeds in the world.
The Great Dane originated in Germany during the 15th century, initially bred for wild boar hunting. Despite their German ancestry, they became synonymous with gentle giant companionship. The breed’s short coat and massive frame (up to 90 kg) make them visually striking. They are recognised by the ANKC as a gentle, easygoing giant breed.
Great Danes have moderate presence in Australia but require careful consideration before ownership. Their giant size, substantial costs (2000–4000), and short lifespan (8–10 years) present challenges. Hot Australian climates are problematic—they overheat easily and require extensive cooling management, shade, and limited exercise during heat. They are unsuitable for apartments despite their calm nature due to size and infrastructure limitations. NSW and VIC are more accommodating than QLD’s climate.
These gentle, loyal companions suit experienced owners in spacious homes with moderate climates. Their relaxed temperament and child-friendliness make them excellent family dogs when space and resources permit. However, potential owners must accept the reality of shorter lifespans, significant veterinary costs, and heat-related health risks in Australian conditions.
Great Dane Personality & Temperament
Understanding the Great Dane temperament is the most important step before bringing one home.
Gentle, calm, loyal, friendly, courageous, affectionate
Breed Ratings at a Glance
How the Great Dane scores across key traits (1 = Low, 5 = High).
Is a Great Dane Right for You?
❌
House with yard
Excellent (needs space)
Separation Anxiety: Moderate — this breed may struggle if left alone for long periods.
Great Dane Size & Appearance
Size
Giant
Weight M
54–90 kg
Weight F
45–59 kg
Height
71–86 cm
Coat
Short, smooth
Colours
Black, blue, fawn, brindle, harlequin
Variations
None (giant only)
Brachycephalic
No
Hypoallergenic
No
Great Dane Health & Lifespan
🔴Critical: Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)
Great Dane is at elevated risk of bloat (GDV), a life-threatening emergency where the stomach twists on itself. Symptoms include a distended abdomen, unproductive retching, and restlessness. Immediate veterinary intervention is essential. Discuss preventive gastropexy with your vet.
🟠High: Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Great Dane is at increased risk of dilated cardiomyopathy, a serious heart condition where the heart muscle weakens and enlarges. Regular cardiac screening including echocardiograms is strongly recommended. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.
🟠High: Hip Dysplasia
Great Dane is predisposed to hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint develops abnormally leading to arthritis and mobility issues. Ensure your breeder provides hip scores for both parents. Maintain a lean body weight and provide appropriate exercise to support joint health.
8 years
Average Lifespan
Known Health Conditions
Joint development issue
Est. treatment: 2000–4000
Heart disease
Est. treatment: 2000–5000
Bloat (life-threatening)
Est. treatment: 2000–4000
Osteosarcoma
Est. treatment: 2000–3000
Recommended Health Tests:
Hip score, cardiac evaluation, thyroid evaluation, ophthalmologist evaluation
Pet Insurance for Great Dane
Avg Annual Insurance: $950
Monthly Estimate: Estimated 60–100/month
Recommended Insurers:
• Bow Wow Meow
• PD Insurance
• Petinsurance.com.au
• Budget Direct
• Petcover
• NRMA
TIP: Insure before 6 months.
Compare insurance policies for your Great Dane
Given this breed's known health conditions, comprehensive coverage is recommended for Australian owners.
Compare Pet Insurance →
Great Dane Cost of Ownership (AUD)
| Category | Amount (AUD) |
|---|
| PURCHASE |
$2,000 - $5,000 |
| Food |
$3,200 |
| Vet |
$800 |
| Grooming |
$200 |
| Insurance |
$950 |
| TOTAL/yr |
$4,004 |
| Monthly |
$267 |
| LIFETIME (8 yrs) |
$32,032 |
| FIRST-YEAR EXTRAS |
$1,200–$2,200 (desexing, vax, microchip, setup, puppy school) |
$32,032
Estimated lifetime cost (8 years)
All prices in AUD. Costs vary by state, vet, and lifestyle. Sources: PetSure, RSPCA, Animal Medicines Australia.
Great Dane Grooming Guide
Frequency
Every 8–12 weeks
Brushing
N/A
Professional Cost
50–80
Coat
Short, smooth
Shedding
★★☆☆☆/5
Tools
Slicker/pin brush, deshedding tool, nail clippers
Nails
Every 4–6 weeks | Ears: Monthly | Teeth: 2–3×/week
Great Dane Exercise Needs
Daily Exercise
45 minutes
Type
Gentle walking, light play
Energy
★★☆☆☆/5
Separation Anxiety
Moderate
Mental Stimulation
Puzzle feeders, sniff walks, 10min training/day
Sports
Agility, flyball, scent work, swimming (breed-dependent)
Training Your Great Dane
Trainability: ★★★★☆/5
First-Time Owner: ★☆☆☆☆/5
N/A
Tips: Positive reinforcement only | Puppy school 8–12 weeks
Short 5–10min sessions | Socialise early with dogs, people, sounds
Finding a Reputable Great Dane Breeder
REGISTRIES:
• ANKC
• ABA
GREEN FLAGS: Health tests, ANKC/RPBA reg, visits allowed, health guarantee, screens buyers
RED FLAGS: Always available, multiple breeds, no health tests, Gumtree/social media sellers, pet shops
✅ Green Flags
- Registered with ANKC, RPBA, MDBA, or RightPaw
- Invites you to visit and meet the mother (dam)
- Provides health test results for parents
- Includes vet certificate, microchip, and vaccination records
- Has a waiting list (sign of demand, not a puppy farm)
❌ Red Flags
- Multiple breeds always available with no wait
- Won't let you visit or meet the mother
- No health testing mentioned
- Price significantly below market average
- Meets in a public place instead of their property
Trusted Australian Registries:
ANKC (ankc.org.au) · RPBA (rpba.org.au) · RightPaw (rightpaw.com.au) · Dogs Australia · ACF
Adopting a Great Dane in Australia
RESCUE OPTIONS:
• Great Dane Rescue Australia
• Giant Breed Rescue
• RSPCA Australia
Adoption Cost: $250–$600 AUD
(includes desexing, microchip, vaccinations)
Search PetRescue.com.au — Australia's largest adoption platform
❤️ Thousands of dogs need homes. Rescue dogs come desexed, vaccinated, and microchipped.
Great Dane — Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Great Dane cost in Australia?
Expect 2000–4000 from ANKC-registered breeders. Higher prices reflect health screening and breeding standards. Add significant ongoing costs: food (50–80/week), veterinary care (2000+/year), and pet insurance (60–100/month).
Are Great Danes good for apartments?
Despite their calm nature, Great Danes are unsuitable for apartments due to their massive size and space requirements. They need room to lie down fully extended and clear sightlines. Houses with spacious living areas are essential.
Do Great Danes shed a lot?
Great Danes shed moderately year-round. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush manages loose hair. Their short coat requires minimal grooming maintenance compared to long-haired breeds.
How long do Great Danes live?
Great Danes have a relatively short lifespan of 8–10 years. This is a significant consideration for potential owners. Health screening for hip dysplasia and heart conditions (dilated cardiomyopathy) is essential for responsible breeding.
Are Great Danes good with children?
Great Danes are exceptionally gentle and patient with children, earning the nickname "gentle giants". Their calm nature and tolerance make them excellent family dogs. However, their size requires supervision to prevent accidental knockdowns.
How much exercise does a Great Dane need?
Great Danes need moderate exercise: 30–45 minutes daily of gentle walking. Avoid strenuous activity, especially in heat. They are content as indoor companions and do not tolerate high-impact exercise like running or jumping.
What health problems do Great Danes have?
Hip dysplasia, dilated cardiomyopathy (heart disease), gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat—life-threatening), and bone cancer are common. Regular cardiac screening and careful dietary management (bloat prevention) are essential.
Where can I find a Great Dane breeder in Australia?
Contact the Great Dane Club of Australia or ANKC-registered breeders. Request health screening certificates for hip, elbow, and cardiac issues. Great Dane rescue groups exist in most states.
Is pet insurance worth it for Great Danes?
Pet insurance (60–100/month) is highly recommended given their predisposition to costly conditions like bloat, hip dysplasia, and heart disease. Many insurers offer breed-specific coverage.
Are Great Danes unsuitable for hot climates?
Yes, Great Danes struggle significantly in hot climates like inland Australia and coastal summer heat. They are brachycephalic-adjacent in heat sensitivity, requiring constant cooling, shade, and hydration. Coastal NSW/VIC areas are more suitable than QLD.
