The Great Dane is commonly referred to as “the King of Dogs” and is one of the world’s tallest breeds. The earliest written history of a
dog resembling a Great Dane has been found in Chinese literature from 1121 B.C. The Great Dane originated from the Irish Wolfhound and the
Old English Mastiff and was developed in Germany to hunt boar, which can be quite vicious. The Great Dane quickly developed into a companion and guard dog due to its desire to be around people.
Great Danes are, for the most part, gentle giants and generally have a wonderful disposition towards other dogs and people. Care should be taken around children due mainly to the size of the Great Dane. This breed needs some exercise, with caution against exercising too strenuously while they are still growing, and their short hair coat requires little grooming. You may want to upgrade to a king-sized bed when you welcome a Great Dane into your house, however!
Although they require little grooming, Great Danes are still prone to a number of
hereditary and congenital conditions that can adversely affect their health – not to mention
your budget. Some of the conditions and illnesses Great Danes are prone to include
heart problems such as dilated cardiomyopathy and aortic stenosis; skeletal issues such as cervical vertebral instability (Wobbler syndrome); skin conditions such as
demodicosis; and eye problems such as
entropion.
Thankfully,
Petplan pet insurance covers all hereditary and congenital conditions
for the life of your pet as standard. Which means if your Great Dane inherits more than just a king-sized love of others, you’re
covered.
