GREAT DANE

Great Dane, ears natural (left) and cropped (right). breed of working dog developed at least 400 years ago in Germany, where it was used for boar hunting. The Great Dane is typically a swift, alert dog noted for courage, friendliness, and dependability. It has a massive, square-jawed head, and body lines that give it an elegant appearance. Its short coat is black, golden brown, brindle, blue-gray, or white with black patches. The tallest of the working breeds, the Great Dane stands 28 to 32 inches (71 to 81 cm) and weighs 120 to 150 pounds (54 to 68 kg). Its name was derived from one of its French names, Grand Danois (Big Danish), although there is no known reason to associate Denmark with the history or origin of the breed. See the Table of Selected Breeds of Working Dogs for further information.