Energy Level
Very High
Weight
45–54 kg
Height Range
71–81 cm
Life Span
7–10 years
A very high-energy breed that needs 90+ minutes of intense daily activity.
About the Great Dane
The Great Dane is a large and powerful breed of dog that was originally bred in Germany for hunting large game. They are intelligent, loyal, and gentle, and make excellent companion dogs.
Breed Characteristics
Temperament
Facts about the Great Dane
Working breeds thrive with a job — 60+ min activity plus mental tasks prevent destructive boredom.
AKC
Deeply bonded to their handler — early socialization prevents separation anxiety and over-protectiveness.
VCA
Large-breed puppies: avoid long runs until 18 months. Growth plates close late — early high-impact harms joints.
VCA
Consistency is non-negotiable — the same command from every family member, every time. Mixed signals breed confusion.
The Kennel Club UK
Most working breeds were selectively bred for specific tasks — guarding, sledding, water rescue. Know yours.
AKC
Great Danes need 30–60 min moderate walks. NO long runs until 18 months old — giant-breed joints develop slowly.
VCA
Roughly 1 in 3 Danes develop bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) in their lifetime — feed 2–3 small meals, avoid exercise 1h before/after eating.
AKC / ACVIM; Glickman 2000 (JAVMA)
Gentle giants — affectionate and calm, usually great with family. Train gently but firmly from puppyhood (size!).
The Kennel Club UK
Average Great Dane lifespan is 7–10 years — size costs longevity. Heart disease is the most common end cause.
Veterinary epidemiology
Exercise by Age
Puppy (under 1 year)
Limit exercise to 5 minutes per month of age, twice daily. Avoid high-impact activities to protect growing joints.
Adult (1-7 years)
Full daily goal applies. Mix walks with play, training and mental stimulation.
Senior (7+ years)
Reduce intensity by 20-30%. Shorter, more frequent walks. Watch for signs of fatigue or joint stiffness.
Similar Breeds
Frequently asked questions
How much exercise does a Great Dane need?
A Great Dane needs about 8,750 steps a day. A very high-energy breed that needs 90+ minutes of intense daily activity.
How big does a Great Dane get?
Adult Great Danes typically weigh 45–54 kg and stand 71–81 cm at the shoulder.
How long do Great Danes live?
A Great Dane usually lives 7–10 years.
What is a Great Dane's temperament?
Great Danes are typically Friendly, Devoted, Reserved, Gentle, Confident, Loving.
Calculate your Great Dane's exact daily goal
Pawmi uses peer-reviewed breed science to create a personalized plan based on your dog's breed, age, weight and health conditions.
Calculate Goal