The Great Dane
The Great Dane breed description
Character
The Great Dane is the Apollo of dogs. It is a dog that radiates power and peace, is rather reserved with strangers and will defend his family to the end. He also loves children. In short, it's a pleasure to have a Great Dane.
Breeding
The Great Danes used for breeding are approved by the Dutch Great Danes Club (NDDC Nederlandse Duitse Doggen Club). They are checked for appearance and examined by a vet. Their hips are x-rayed and when these are passed, the bitch or dog is approved.
Training
Of course a Great Dane needs to be well trained. In
general this shouldn't cause too many problems. Great Danes have a gentle
character and get on well with other dogs.
It is important however to start training when the dog is still a pup.
A grown male can weigh up to 80 kgs and will be difficult to stop if
he wants to head in a different direction from you!
Food
A Great Dane puppy starts off growing very quickly.
Therefore a good quality feed is very important. A puppy is fed 4
times a day, which later on can be reduced to twice a day. It is advisable
to feed a grown dog at least twice a day, because otherwise it has
to take in too much food in one go.
Make sure the dog eats from a bowl in a stand, so he doesn't take
in too much air.
Give the dog some quiet time after feeding, don't go for a walk or
play games, because this can cause a stomach torsion.
Always watch out for stomach torsion. You only have minutes and expert
intervention can save a dog. Symptoms are: throwing up mucus and a
bloated and very painful abdomen. If in doubt always consult a vet
immediately.
It is important that a puppy's exercise is carefully monitored. This means not overly long walks, such as many miles twice a day, but rather a short walk six to eight times a day.