THUNDERFIRE GREAT DANES

How much do Great Danes cost?

Prices may vary breeder to breeder. A show quality puppy can cost upwards of $1800.

How big do Great Danes get?

Males can reach between 34 -36” weighing between 60 –90 kilo. (min. height for a male is 30”, and most breeders strive for at least 34” at withers) Females from about 31-33 “ generally. (min. height is 28”at withers)

Are they good with children?

Danes are known for their compatibility with kids. Remember though, that a dane is still a big dog, and as a pup, his size and enthusiasm may not mix with a small toddler. Care should be taken and common sense when mixing the two. Children should be taught to treat a dog with respect also.

Does he eat a lot?

No more than the ‘avarage’ dog, in fact maybe less , compared to some extremely active breeds. A dane as an adult should be fed 2 smaller meals a day, rather than one big meal.

(and we’ve never lost a postman or meter reader yet!)

What does he eat?

Diet requirements may vary according to each breeders beliefs. Many dane owners these days advocate a raw based diet. Many breeders these days do not believe in ‘calcium supplementation'. Too much is as bad as too little. In today's diets, the dog usually gets enough. Better to give an overall mineral/trace element formula, as ‘dietry insurance’.

How much exercise should he get?

As babies, very little..no enforced exercise. Gentle strolls will do, no jogging on hard surfaces. Nothing serious until the growth of the bone has stopped, about 12 months.

Also, you must look after his general skeletal health. No slippery floors, no flights of steps to fall down. Care should be taken when pup is housed with another bigger dog, as injury can occur. Injury can account for a percentage of problems traditionally considered ‘hereditary’. Damage to cartilage, or ligaments and muscle, can start changes that lead to big problems for a growing dane pup.

When should I start training him?

As soon as he comes home. Don’t leave it until he is 6 months old!..He can start learning anything as a baby. Obedience school is recommended, puppy socials are also a very good idea when he is little.

Are they good with other dogs?

A well socialized and trained Dane is usually good with other dogs. However, remember, strange dogs can still be defensive, and we don’t recommend you just let him waltz up to a strange dog without first ascertaining the nature and intent of same. Danes can sometimes frighten smaller dogs just by their size, making the other dog react aggressively. Use caution and common sense. Danes as a rule are not dog aggressive, but they are still dogs!

What about other sorts of animals?

The Great dane was bred originally to hunt wild boar. Whilst aggression has been deliberately bred out, all dogs still retain subliminal feral instincts. Brought up with other species, most danes are very good . If not, they can show curious, and semi agro behaviour to things that are furry, squealing ,with game like responses. True to their ancestral form, Danes have been known to go for pigs, sheep and goats. Most danes are not jumpers, so good standard fencing should be adequate. Bring him up with anything you want him to live with from puppy hood.

When should I desex him?

We recommend you do it once he/she has finished growing.