Great Dane

the Great Dane is a breed of dog known for its large size (giant) and gentle personality. The breed is commonly referred to as the "Gentle Giant". Typically they are very smart and strong dogs who are protective and loyal to their owners. They take to training well and are fairly low maintenance compared to many other breeds.

Great Danes come in many colors:

Black

Mostly or all back with possible white on paws and underside (dogs with large amounts of white are sometimes referred to as Mantle or Boston coloring).

Blue

Pure steel blue color with little or no white marks (occasionally on chest or toes).

Harlequin

White with black patches. (More black, and larger spots then a Dalmatian)

Brindle

Tiger stripes on a yellow gold (more orange) base. Typically with black face mask and occasioned with various white or blacks on toes, chest, tail, etc.

Fawn

Yellow gold base with black face mask and occasionally white chest, toes, tail, etc.

Merle

Grey (mouse grey) base with black spots and occasionally white chest, toes, tail, etc. - not American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized as a show color. Typically any dog with mouse grey are none show quality (but great pets!)

Merlequin

Cross between a Merle and a Harlequin - typically white base with grey splotches with black spots within. Also not show recognized.

Typically if a Great Dane lacks color (not white) near their eyes or ears then the organ does not develop and they will be either blind or deaf.

A problem common to the breed is in the hips (hip dysplasia[?]). Typically an x-ray of the parents can certify if their hips are healthy and if they are likely to have healthy pups.

Originally breed for hunting large game (deer, etc.) these dogs are now kept as pets and for show. Great Danes, like most giant dogs, have a fairly slow metabolisim. This results in less energy and food consumption then small breeds (on a food consumption per pound of dog.)

External Links:

www.AKC.org Great Dane page (http://www.akc.org/breeds/recbreeds/grdane.cfm)

http://dmoz.org/Recreation/Pets/Dogs/Breeds/Molosser_Group/Great_Dane/

http://www.ginnie.com/greatdanes.htm