Wondering when to spay a Great Dane? Female Great Dane owners are often unsure to have their dog spayed and do not know when the right time is. It doesn’t help that there are so many opinions online, not to mention, many veterinarians approach this differently too!
There are a few things to consider before making the decision to spay your Great Dane.
When to Spay a Great Dane
Great Danes are giant breeds which can grow, on average to about 120-150 pounds. They are one of the tallest breeds of dogs and have a life expectancy of around 8-12 years.
There are many schools of thought about when to spay a Great Dane, but it is believed that in general, large and giant breed dogs may benefit from delaying the procedure until their joints are more mature.
Because most pets are spayed before their first heat cycle, choosing to delay comes with many considerations (accidental puppies being just one of them). Outside of accidental puppies, intact female Great Danes are more prone to mammary cancer and pyometra.
Some studies show that delayed spay (waiting until after age 1-2 in Great Danes):
Can reduce the risk of osteosarcoma
May reduce the risk of ACL/CCL tears
Will likely result in a better structural outcome of the adult dog, which means stronger bones, better joints, and less chance of early onset arthritis
While these benefits of keeping a female Great Dane intact are still being studied, it’s important to note that there are many negatives, too. It’s important to speak with your veterinarian and balance the pros and cons of spaying your Great Dane.
What Does Spaying Your Great Dane Mean?
Making a decision to alter your female dog means that you complete the surgical removal process of her ovaries and uterus.
The benefits of spaying your Great Dane include:
Reduced risk or even risk elimination of dangerous health conditions such as pyometra, mammary cancer, ovary cancer, and otherwise
No heat cycles to deal with
No accidental puppies
No false pregnancies or milk production
Often, calmer and more stable behavior
Making the decision on when to spay a Great Dane should not be taken lightly. You should consider researching the pros and cons on when to spay a Great Dane. In other pets and breeds of dogs, this is generally done when your dog is between the ages of four to six months, but can be done at any age.
Making the Decision on When to Spay a Great Dane
There are a few things to keep in mind before you make the decision on when to spay a Great Dane, or whether to spay at an early age or young age.
Many people will tell you that they ‘spayed their dog at 6 months’ and their dog was ‘fine’.
Keep in mind that ‘fine’ is a relative, unregulated term and everybody has a different definition for this term. Anecdotal stories should be taken with a grain of salt.
We recommend consulting with your veterinarian, who should have some continuing education on the topic. If you choose to keep your Dane intact until she’s older, it’s important to understand the risk factors that come with that decision.
Female Great Danes
A female Great Dane develops much differently than male Great Danes. In general, they tend to be smaller and not as muscular or masculine in their appearance.
Female dogs have sexual reproductive organs which are full of hormones. These hormones contribute to their growth and development and are present before spaying or neutering a dog. However, after spay or neuter, the hormones are removed.
This can impact their ability to grow in the way in which they were designed.
Risks or Considerations for Spaying Great Dane Dogs
There are other health considerations for female Great Danes and when to spay a Great Dane in general (and some of the same risks are relevant with neutered males). Here are some of the risks associated with early spay (prior to one year of age):
1. Hormone-Responsive Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is a somewhat common health concern for female dogs that were spayed at a young age.
This can mean that they leak urine when they rest or sleep.
There are medications to treat this, and it is generally harmless (just messy).
2. Weight Gain
Another consideration is your dog gaining weight. It is not uncommon for your dog to put on a few pounds after being spayed. The main reason for this weight uptick is due to a decrease their metabolism.
To avoid this weight increase, it is important to keep up with a healthy diet and moderate exercise for your dog even after they have been spayed.
After spay or neuter, sometimes the energy level of your dog can slow, which makes it more difficult to keep the weight off. It is very important that you monitor food intake and activity levels, as excess weight can shorten lifespan by as much as 2 years.
There is only one person who knows your Great Dane and it’s best- and it’s you- so be sure to advocate for them whenever possible!
3. Cancer
Knowing when to spay a Great Dane is a very difficult decision. There are also some risks to keeping your dog in tact, and one of those can be certain types of cancer. Giants dogs are unfortunately more prone to certain types of cancer. One of those being mammary cancer, which is common in older female dogs that have not been spayed.
This type of cancer is almost nonexistent in dogs that have been spayed at an early age. Therefore, spaying your female dog at age 2 minimizes the risk of seeing this form of cancer significantly.
On the flip side, some studies show that osteosarcoma cancer is more common in pets that were spayed under the age of one.
Risks of Cancer in Getting or Not Getting Your Male Great Dane Neutered
Testicular cancer can be found in your Male Great Dane if they are not neutered. This is another form of cancer that can be easily prevented by getting your dog fixed early on. Testicular cancer is not as common as mammary cancer, but it is still something to keep in mind when making the decision of whether you want to keep your male Great Dane in tact or opt for the decision to neuter your male dog.
4. Unwanted Pregnancy with your Female Great Dane and Other Dogs
Of course, if you decide to not spay or neuter your dog there is always a risk for unwanted puppies.
Any time there are two dogs that are not the same gender together, as well as not fixed, you run the risk of having an unplanned pregnancy. Un-spayed and un-neutered dogs tend to gravitate towards one another and intact males will do almost anything to get to a female in heat.
Unplanned puppies are a massive burden on the shelter/rescue system, not to mention, a LOT of work. Pregnancy is a medical condition that comes with complications which can be devastating to the female dog. Breeding and unplanned pregnancies should never be taken lightly.
5. Behaviors of Dogs
Many people will state that there are different behaviors before and after the spay or neuter process. This is true, however, this should not be a primary reason to spay or neuter your dog. We have seen countless dog families rely on the spay or neuter to correct unwanted behavior or aggressive behavior. Unfortunately, spaying or neutering does not always serve as a ‘fix’ for any dog breed. You could see humping behavior prior to a spay/neuter and still continue to see that same bahavior after the procedure.
The best course of action is identifying the primary cause of the behavior and working with a professional to correct it. Spay or neuter may be part of a comprehensive behavioral treatment plan, but should never be anticipated as the “cure”.
6. Growth Plates
Other animals or dog breeds do not have the same types of concerns about their growth plates as Great Danes do. Great Danes are a dog who grows until they are over 24 months.
Their bones, ligaments, and tendons are all still growing and developing well into their adult years. If you were to spay or neuter your dog too early, it could lead to health issues with their growth plates closing too quickly. This also impacts their overall body, spine, or leg structure.
Another common concern with early spay or neuter of dogs is the impact it has on their feet or leg structure. This is, again, due to the hormones that are present before spaying or neutering which help with the growth and development of their bones, ligaments, and tendons.
Your Great Dane is so large that it sometimes has a harder time adjusting to anesthesia than other dogs. Always be sure to get routine blood testing prior to putting your female or male Great Dane under anesthesia. Speak to your vet about what blood panels they find necessary for your Great Dane to have taken. Without completing blood testing prior to your Great Dane being sedated, you run the risk of your Great Dane having blood clotting issues such as Hemophilia A, amongst others.
8. Pyometra
One common health conditions to consider for spaying or not spaying your dog is Pyometra. Pyometra is a life-threatening infection of the uterus that can occur in any un-spayed female dog.
For this reason, it is important to know the signs of this infection in female Great Danes, watch your individual dog closely, and monitor your Great Dane’s health during the duration of her remaining un spayed.
When pyometra happens, the uterus fills up with pus. In some cases, this can only be resolved with a delicate, expensive, and life-threatening surgery.
9. What is considered an early age to spay in Great Danes?
Most male and female dogs are considered to be full grown at around 12 months of age.
At this age they have completed most of their growth and development. However, most large dog breeds can take up to two years to reach their full adult size.
It is important to keep in mind that Great Danes mature slower than other dog breeds. Since other dogs grow quicker and are full grown at a younger age, Great Dane dog’s require longer time to allow their growth plates to fully develop. Spaying before 24 months is often considered ‘too young’ for Great Danes.
As the owner of a Great Dane, you are wondering about the best time to spay her. First, it’s important to understand the heat cycle and the clinical signs of estrus.
What happens when the Great Dane dog goes into heat?
Generally, Great Danes come into heat twice a year, with each cycle lasting about three weeks. During this time, their bodies undergo a number of changes, including an increase in vaginal discharge and a swelling of the vulva.
Additionally, they may be more restless and vocal than usual. It is common for there to be changes in behavior and appetite during this time. They are susceptible to pregnancy for the entirety of this heat cycle, but especially on the day when they ovulate.
Should female Great Danes be spayed during their heat cycle?
We suggest waiting until your Great Dane is NOT in estrus (heat) to perform any surgical procedure.
During this time (heat cycle) female large breed dogs have an abundance of hormones. Your veterinarian will have insight into the best time to spay your female, based on the circumstances, their age, and their health.
Why is my Female Great Dane acting pregnant during her heat cycle?
Your female Great Dane has likely entered into a false pregnancy.
Do not spay your Great Dane while they are experiencing a false pregnancy or other health issues. Her nipples could fill up with milk, and Great Danes sometimes even carry around stuffed animals. Males tend to get antsy and sometimes there is excessive barking from the male counterparts.
During this 3-4 month time, you should not consider spaying your Great Dane. The only consideration for this would be that you have been given a pet health report from your veterinarian that your Great Dane is experiencing uterine infections, which is life threatening.
Why should I not spay my Great Dane during her heat cycle?
Your female Great Dane is extremely susceptible to bleeding out and other health problems during surgery if you choose to spay during her heat cycle. There is an excessive blood supply as well as raging hormones in your Great Dane. You should plan routine blood testing and ensure that you are planning your spay according to your Great Danes hormones.
In conclusion
In conclusion, you need to make the best decision for your Great Dane dog . You need to factor in her health, your lifestyle, and whether or not you plan to breed her. Talk with your veterinarian about the best time to spay your Great Dane. Use this article as a guide to ask the right questions and make an informed decision.
There are risks of spaying your Great Dane dog and there are risks of letting her stay in-tact. We hope that by outlining those risks and benefits, it can help you to make the best decision possible.
Danes are gentle giants, but they are also powerful dogs. If you’re not prepared for how much power and strength your Dane can put into pulling on the leash, it can be very dangerous. In this guide, we’ll teach you how to train your Great Dane to walk on a leash – without any danger of them getting loose or running away.
The Foundations of Leash Training Your Great Dane
Before you can know how to train your Great Dane to walk on a leash like a pro, you need to make sure they know basic obedience commands. This helpful guide will show you how to use positive reinforcement to get your dog walking by your side in no time!
Leash Training Basics for Great Danes
It’s important to train your Great Dane how to walk on a leash correctly from an early age. In this stage of training, you will work with your dog off-leash in your home or yard.
If you don’t have space for safe off-leash work, use a long leash and an ergonomic harness (we do not recommend using ‘Petsafe’ or ‘Easy Walk’ no-pull harnesses on Great Danes).
Practice until you can walk 10 steps or more between rewards. Add obstacles such as cones or balls, too, and practice walking around them together. Reward your dog for engaging with you while you practice!
Tip 1: How to Train Your Great Dane to Walk on Leash by Recognizing Common Problems
Recognize Common Problems: Know and recognize common behavior issues and tackle them from puppyhood. Here is a list of 7 essential dog obedience skills that all dogs and puppies should know.
Tip 2: How to Train Your Great Dane to Walk on Leash with Consistency
Be Consistent: We all know the importance of being consistent. If your family has a rule, be sure the rule stays the same all the time.
Tip 3: How to Train Your Great Dane to Walk on Leash Using Rewards
Give Rewards: One way to get your dog’s attention when he misbehaves at the hands is by giving rewards. You don’t have to scold or punish! Instead ask for what we’re looking for-a sit followed by delicious treats like food will do just fine in most cases.
Consider E-collar training to help build strong skills. Contrary to popular belief, E-collars are an ethical method to set your Great Dane up for success. Check out this guide for which e-collars are safe, and which are not.
Dogs are easily distractible and pull on the leash while walking. However, with a few easy tricks, you can train your dog to focus on you.
Start off by gradually increasing the amount of time you spend walking together. When encountering a distraction, ask your dog to engage with you and continue moving.
Eye contact is very important when your Great Dane sees a distraction like a rabbit or squirrel.
Some tips for getting your Great Dane to give you eye contact are:
Provide high quality treats, such as Freeze Dried Beef Liver. When a distraction arises, pull a treat to your eyes to become more important than the distraction.
Avoid high intense situations. If your Great Dane pulls heavily on the leash while passing other dogs, be sure to cross the street before passing them. Do not put your Great Dane in situations that they might fail.
Practice the ‘place’ command often. Teaching ‘Place‘ will allow you to command your Great Dane to sit or lay in a moment of chaos or distraction, when they may rather be pulling on their leash.
With consistent practice in different environments, you’ll have a well-behaved dog that walks perfectly beside you.
“Training your dog with positive reinforcement is the key to a happy, healthy relationship. Using a harness instead of a collar can help control pulling and make walking much easier.”
You Successfully Leash Trained Your Great Dane
You’ve successfully trained your Dane to walk on a leash!
It’s always important to be aware of any pain or discomfort your dog may be feeling, and to recognize any gradual changes in behavior.
Be sure to keep up the good work by continuing to monitor your dog for signs of falling back into old/negative leash behaviors and practice your leash skills regularly. Congratulations on being a responsible pet owner!
We found out a nasty but cool fact: Dirt is good for dogs! Dogs love to get dirty, but is it bad for them? Contrary to popular belief, letting your dog play in dirt may actually be good for their immune system! Learn more about the benefits of a dirty dog and why you shouldn’t worry about your Dane getting messy. Buckle up- we are about to discuss why dirt is good for dogs!
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Dogs Need to Get Dirty for a Healthy Immune System!
Think it’s bad for dogs to eat dirt? WRONG. In fact, it’s essential for their immune system! Find out how playing and getting dirty can help your pup stay healthy.
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Healthy Dogs – They Love to Eat Dirt!
Dogs love to eat dirt and mud, and for good reason! These activities are incredibly enriching for their health and provide opportunities for exercise that most dogs enjoy. Puppies love to play with, dig in and eat mud and dirt as well! Mud and dirt are full of unique smells and textures which keep your dog’s senses engaged. So go ahead and let them play in the dirt- it’s good for them!
Dogs love to dig. It’s in their nature. However, that doesn’t mean you have to just let them go wild and start tearing up your garden. There are a few things you can do to help prevent this behavior while still keeping your dog happy and healthy. Work on finding healthy way for your Great Danes to play in the mud. You may be hesitant at first, but keep in mind that dirt is good for dogs! Check out these tips for how to keep your dog entertained and safe when they’re outside!
Most of the Time, Dirt is Good for Dogs, but Can Dirt Be Bad?
Dogs should never eat or inhale too much mud as it can contain parasites and other things that may be dangerous to their health. There can also be parasites or bacteria in certain dirt or mud, so it’s crucial for pet parents to not let their dogs play in the wrong mud or dirt. Stagnant water, for example, is known to harbor bacteria. Allowing your dog to play in mud from stagnant water may end up in a tummy ache or even a parasite.
“Danes love to get dirty, but is it bad for them? Contrary to popular belief, letting your dog eat dirt may actually be good for their immune system! Give your Dane the opportunity to play in the mud and let them enjoy this natural source of enrichment today!“
Why Giving Your Dog Access to Dirt, Mud, and the Outdoors is So Important
However, access to free-play in dirt, mud and the outdoors has many benefits for dogs. Some of the reasons why dirt is good for dogs include reducing stress and anxiety, combating depression, reducing boredom, boosting the immune system, helping with digestion and cardiovascular health, reducing allergies, softening toenails, paw pads, skin and fur, improving balance and coordination and strengthening muscles. When you realize that dirt is good for dogs, you will actually improve not only your dog’s immune system, but provide them with more engagement in regards to sensory activities! Digging and playing in mud can help stimulate mental enrichment for dogs. There are so many ways that dirt is good for dogs! Supervision is necessary!
Dirt is Good for Dogs!
In conclusion, while it’s important to keep an eye on your pup and make sure they’re not eating too much dirt, playing in mud and getting outdoors has many benefits for their health. From reducing stress and anxiety to boosting the immune system, here are just a few reasons why dirt is good for dogs!
If so, you’re not alone. CBD oil for dogs is becoming a popular treatment for a variety of conditions, including anxiety, chronic pain, and seizures. But is it safe and effective? In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of using CBD oil for dogs. We’ll also discuss how to choose a quality product and dosage.
What does CBD oil do for dogs?
Anxiety: CBD oil for dogs can be used to treat anxiety in dogs. separation, thunderstorms, car rides- any type of anxiety your dog may experience.
Cancer: CBD oil for dogs has been known to slow the growth of cancer cells and tumors. It is a great natural way to help your furry friend feel better and fight cancer cells.
Pain relief: CBD oil is a natural pain reliever. It can help with arthritis, hip dysplasia, and any other type of chronic pain your dog may be experiencing.
Inflammation: CBD oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help with allergies, hot spots, and any other type of inflammation.
Seizures: CBD oil has been known to help dogs who suffer from seizures. It is a great alternative to traditional seizure medication with far fewer side effects.
Appetite: CBD oil can help increase appetite in dogs who are struggling to eat due to illness or treatment such as chemotherapy.
Keeping calm: CBD oil can help dogs who are overly excited or nervous. It is a great way to keep your dog calm in stressful situations.
Do Vets Recommend CBD Oil for Dogs?
Yes, many veterinarians recommend CBD oil for dogs.
CBD oil is a great way to help your dog feel better and manage pain without the use of traditional medication.
It is important to speak with your veterinarian before giving your dog CBD oil. They will be able to help you determine the right dosage for your dog’s individual needs.
Now that you know all about CBD oil for dogs, it’s time to find the right product for your pet.
How to Choose CBD Oils for Dogs
To find the best pet CBD oil, we compared CBD products and CBD oil brands and products on several different things:
Hemp Source– We wanted a hemp-based company who uses natural-farming practices to make their CBD oils.
Natural Ingredients – We know the best CBD oil will come from a hemp plant and be natural and organic.
Full spectrum CBD– It is of utmost important that CBD oil for dogs is Full spectrum CBD oil, not broad spectrum CBD oil.
Lab Tested: High quality CBD products go through tests with independent third-parties. Additionally, great dog CBD oil brands will provide those lab results for pet owners.
FDA Manufacturing Facility: Dog CBD oil products comply with the FDA.
One of the Best CBD Oils for Dogs
After reading the list above and doing our research, we determined that one of the best CBD oils for dogs is Colorado Sun.
We will discuss more about their CBD Oil for dogs. Continue reading to get common questions answered and to see why we believe Colorado Sun ranks as one of the best CBD dog companies out there.
What is CBD?
CBD oil is gaining popularity among human and dog owners alike. First, what exactly is CBD oil? CBD, or cannabidiol, are found in cannabis plants. Unlike its more famous counterpart, THC, CBD does not produce a psychoactive effect.
Can CBD Oil for Dogs also be Human Grade?
The benefits of CBD are well known to those who have had relief from pain, anxiety or depression. What many don’t realize is that it can be extracted in an industrial hemp manner which delivers human-grade quality with no psychoactivity – meaning you feel great without any high! Human-grade CBD oil is extracted from industrial hemp. It has less than 0.3% THC.
This means that CBD is safe for human consumption and is able to treat a variety of conditions.
Why Do Pet Parents Use Dog CBD?
Dog owners are especially interested in CBD oil because it is an effective treatment for anxiety, pain, and seizures with few side effects. Not all CBD products are equal. Make sure to do your research before giving your pet any CBD products. Dog CBD, CBD pet treats, and full spectrum hemp oil provide many health benefits to your dog. However, pet owners must investigate the CBD brand before giving any form of dog CBD.
CBD oil for dogs is a popular natural remedy for a variety of diseases and conditions. The product called CBD is a compound found in the hemp plant.
While CBD oil is generally considered safe for humans, it is important to exercise caution when giving it to your dog, and especially puppies. This is because the CBD for dogs industry is still relatively new, and high-quality products can be difficult to find. Therefore, finding the correct CBD oil product and pet wellness company is crucial for ensuring quality CBD oil.
Look for Full Spectrum CBD Oils
Look for products that are organic and third-party tested to ensure potency and purity. Additionally, pet CBD oil should be full-spectrum CBD. Full spectrum hemp extract means that the CBD oil is an, “extract only derived from hemp. Hemp is the term for a cannabis plant with 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or less—not enough for mind-altering effects. In contrast, a CBD oil for dogs can be extracted from either hemp or marijuana. Marijuana is the term for cannabis plants with higher levels of THC. This is different from a CBD isolate product that will only contain a single cannabinoid: CBD”, Mind Body Green.
Some CBD Oils are Dangerous Depending on Where the CBD Oil is Grown
Even though CBD oil has many benefits for humans and dogs, there are dangers to ingesting cbd. When used safely and grown locally, CBD oil for dogs is used to help with anxiety, pain, inflammation, and even cancer.
Locally and Organically Grown CBD Oils and CBD Dog Treats
CBD Oils for dogs CAN be VERY beneficial. However, give your dog CBD oil that is locally and organically grown.
This is because CBD oil for dogs (hemp seed oil) that is not locally and organically grown may contain pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals that can be harmful to your health.
CBD oil for dogs that is not locally and organically grown may also increase the risk of your dog ingesting something that is poisonous. If you plan to utilize CBD oil for dogs, it should be locally and organically grown.
The best CBD oils for dogs will be from a CBD brand that offers a high-quality CBD oil which is locally and organically grown.
Questions to ask about CBD Oil for Dogs
If you have an anxious pet, or are concerned about your dog’s health, you are going to see an abundance of brands of CBD oil for dogs.
The market does not lack in CBD pet products. Therefore, before you buy and offer dog CBD oil to your pet, ask yourself these important questions regarding CBD oil products:
Is the CBD Oil for Dogs Organic?
Choosing a dog CBD oil without additives is a smart decision because it ensures both your safety and the environment. The natural product from organic CBD oils for dogs are grown with sustainable practices. Therefore, you won’t worry about any additional chemicals or toxins being added in! Additionally, these types of farming help preserve land resources like water sources which are important for all living things on Earth to survive.
Can CBD be toxic to dogs?
Note: Beware of using human CBD products for your dog. Some human CBD products (even CBD hemp oil) contain ingredients such as grapes, raisins or chocolate for flavoring. If your dog has any allergies, be sure to read the CBD product carefully. Some companies, like Colorado Sun, offer a specific CBD pet tincture with a gluten-free option, or other allergy friendly choices.
What is Broad Spectrum CBD Oil?
Broad spectrum CBD oil for dogs is made with pure hemp oil and you can trust that the tincture contains JUST CBD, not other unnecessary ingredients.
What type of CBD is best for dogs?
Broad spectrum CBD oil is a type of CBD oil for dogs that includes all of the plant’s beneficial compounds, including other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. This makes the cbd oil benefits more extreme than other CBD oil products (isolate), which only contains CBD. As a result, organic broad spectrum CBD oil is the best CBD oil for dogs. It’s safe, effective, and provides the most benefits.
Coconut Derived MCT Oil
Every CBD oil comes with a carrier oil. CBD products range from broad spectrum CBD to full spectrum CBD. The carrier oil in which your CBD product is in matters. Discuss with your CBD company if the CBD extract is in a coconut derived mct oil. We do not recommend using coconut as a carrier oil. This will cause diarrhea and stomach issues, as well as is not as affective of a product as a CBD derived from hemp. To reiterate, the best CBD oil is one that is full spectrum CBD oil with a hemp plant carrier oil.
Is the CBD Company Reliable and is the CBD Oil Effective?
There are a lot of CBD companies out there, and it can be hard to know which one to trust. When looking for a reliable CBD company, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, look for a company that uses high-quality CBD oil tincture or broad spectrum hemp oil. These products are more likely to be effective, as they contain a wider range of cannabinoids and other beneficial compounds. Second, make sure the company you choose has a good understanding of the endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for regulating many important functions in the body. The CBD oils you give your dog work in correspondence with this system.
It could be important to you to receive free shipping or perks like a 1-3 day money back guarantee. If so, be sure to ask what the company’s policy is regarding this in correlation to their CBD oil for dogs. If the CBD oil does not work for your dog, you want to make sure they offer a certain day money back guarantee, so that you can ensure your money is safe when purchasing the CBD oil product.
Fun CBD Products and Oil for Dogs
Did you know that CBD oil is not the only way that a CBD brand can offer CBD oil for dogs? There are many ways for pets to ingest hemp oil. Here are some fun forms in which CBD dog products are made.
CBD Dog Treat
Some CBD brands will make CBD dog treats full of organic CBD oil. If your pet struggles to use liquid CBD oil for dogs, you will love using CBD treats. CBD treats are different from regular dog treats, because CBD treats contain CBD product. Look for a treat that contains the same ingredients as the CBD oil tincture.
What is the difference between a CBD Pet Tincture and CBD Treats?
The difference between a CBD Pet Tincture and CBD Treats is that the tincture will be in liquid form while the treats will be in the form of a biscuit, gummy or cookie. Give the tincture drops orally, and the treats as a snack. Look for a treat made with CBD for dogs. Likewise, make sure the treats contain full spectrum CBD oil.
Note: Beware of CBD oil products that contain essential oils. Some essential oils are harmful and can pose toxins to your pet, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
CBD Dosage for of CBD Oil for Dogs
When it comes to CBD oil for dogs, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The dosage of CBD oil will vary depending on the size and weight of your dog. You may need to start with a small dose and increase gradually as needed. Starting with a low dose of full spectrum CBD is the best choice with regards to CBD dosage. Speak with your veterinarian. Also, bring the CBD tincture with you to your dog’s next vet appointment. Your veterinarian may be able to speak with you about CBD oil for dogs and discuss the right CBD dosage for your unique pet.
Our Choice of Human Grade, Full Spectrum CBD
After concluding our research on which makes the best CBD oil, we have decided that one of our favorite Full Spectrum CBD oil companies is Colorado Sun.
Here are the top reasons we support Colorado Sun as a company with some of the best CBD oil:
Full spectrum CBD- unlike many broad spectrum CBD companies, Colorado Sun provides a high-quality full spectrum CBD hemp oil that provides dogs with results.
Safe and organic CBD oil for dogs- the full spectrum hemp extract is completely organic and safe for the central nervous system.
FDA Compliant- the manufacturing facility is FDA compliant. Pet parents do not need to worry about unsanitary conditions or sneaky ingredients in the hemp seed oil.
Hemp carrier oil in their CBD tincture– they do NOT use any mct coconut oil, eliminating any risk of stomach issues and irritation. Their products are gluten free and their CBD oil helps hundreds of dogs daily. No mct oil is present!
CBD products are locally grown and sustainable- No more risks of pesticides hiding in your CBD pet tinctures. The organic and domestic hemp is locally sourced.
Customer service- The company provides a 0 day money back guarantee. They completely stand by their CBD dog products and refund you instantly if pet owners are not satisfied.
What does CBD oil do for dogs?
CBD for Dogs: Conclusion
We hope this article has helped you learn about CBD oil for dogs and the many benefits it can provide. CBD oil is a safe, effective, and natural way to help your pet live a healthier life. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian before starting your dog on any type of CBD regimen in order to better understand CBD products and which is the best CBD oil for you and your pet.
If you’re interested in running with your Great Dane, we’ve got the Ultimate Guide for you.
Do you love spending time outdoors running but don’t want to leave your Great Dane behind? Or maybe you’re just getting started training for a marathon and want to make sure your pup can keep up.
Alternatively, it’s possible you have heard of the dangers of Great Dane puppies growth plates. If that’s the case, you want to make sure the exercise and running you are doing with them is safe and within limits. Either way, this blog post is for you!
Age Matters When Running with Your Great Dane:
Great Danes are large and giant breed dogs who experience joint pain with excessive exercise. So, running with your Great Dane can be risky. But, physical activity is SO important for your Great Dane with a million times the pent up energy that you have!
Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout
Do you want to go running with your Great Dane? If so, lets talk about considering age with over running, exercising, health issues, and Great Dane exercise:
Running with Your Great Dane and Age Consideration:
If you’d like to eventually go running with your Great Dane, consider extremely early training and socialization. Great Danes are one of the largest dog breeds and can grow to be over 100 pounds. You can eventually go running with your Great Dane, but you will need excellent socialization and leash skills.
Great Danes are a very active breed and need to be exercised regularly to stay healthy. Going running with your Great Dane is fun, but there are many factors to consider. When they are puppies, exercise is important. However, the type, frequency and duration of running with your Great Dane is dependent on your Great Danes age.
How Much Exercise Should a Great Dane Puppy Get?
Big dog breeds require enough exercise to maintain muscle mass, joint health and prevent obesity. Controversially, Great Dane owners recognize that in order to raise a healthy adult Great Dane, they must limit their puppies daily exercise. Going running with your Great Dane while they are growing puppies is NOT a good idea. However, there are many ways to eventually accomplish the task of going running with your Great Dane.
Free Play is Very Different than Going Running with Your Great Dane
Your Great Dane puppy should be allowed to free play as much as they want! This is natural exercise and is extremely benefit in helping avoid destructive behavior. Puppy Great Danes should get an abundance of mental exercise, socialization with other dogs, and ‘free play’ running off leash in a safe area. When Great Dane puppies are off leash and THEY control their daily exercise, there is truly no concern with them getting ‘too much exercise’. Spend time being couch potatoes and spend time exploring with your Great Dane. Always base their physical exercise on your Great Dane being in control- NOT you. How much exercise do THEY need and want? Going running with your Great Dane is your ultimate goal, but first help their joints grow healthy and strong.
Should You Avoid Going Running with your Great Dane who is growing?
You should avoid going running with your Great Dane who is still growing. Additionally, they should not be allowed to stair climb or jump off of furniture, as this can damage their joints. Giant dogs who are growing fast have growth plates. Growth plates do not close until they are 24 months, and damage to this portion of the dog’s joints can cause major issues with your dog breed. Going running with your Great Dane who is still growing could cause permanent damage.
AVOID: Stair Climbing as a Form of Great Dane Exercise
Climbing stairs frequently and quickly in young, growing puppies can cause irreparable joint damage. This is because as the puppies grow, their bones, growth plates, and ligaments are still developing. Repeated high impact activities such as stair climbing before your Great Dane’s growth plates have closed can cause these joints to be permanently damaged. While your Great Dane may seem like they are able to handle this type of strenuous activity, senior Great Danes will show the impact of these joint-heavy activities. Activities like climbing or jumping off of stairs, strenuous work-outs or going running with your Great Dane are to be avoided until they are fully grown.
DO NOT: Playing Fetch is Not Appropriate for Many Dogs
Fetch is one of the hardest games for your dog to play in regards to its joints. Throwing a ball for your dog to fetch puts unnecessary stress on their ligaments, joints and spine. This is because when dogs retrieve balls, they tend to jump up and down which can damage the discs in their spine.
Additionally, fetch causes your dog to stop and start their movements and body weight VERY quickly, which may be okay for hunting dogs or other breeds. But, for dogs predisposed to joint health issues, this game is a major red flag. Over exercising Great Danes in a game of fetch is unnecessary and damaging.
SAY NO: Tug of War Games are Unhealthy to Big Dog Breeds
Dog owners of large dogs know that Great Danes can be predisposed to ‘large breed’ diseases that an other dog breed may not be. Some of these diseases include Arthritis, Hip Dysplasia, and Wobblers. When you play tug of war with your dog, the added stress and pressure placed on their spine and neck is unnecessary. Tug of war is a game that should be limited.
Alternative Options to Tug
Replace this with dog safe strengthening exercises such as swimming, free play / running and allowing your Great Dane to explore a variety of surfaces (gravel, mud, dirt, grass). Avoid any type of tug toy or other that will impact the spine during play time. If you’re planning on one day going running with your Great Dane, avoid joint-heavy activities such as tug.
UNNECCESSARY: Baby Gentle Giants Do Not Need Leashed Long Walks
Many Great Dane owners feel the need to walk their dog for miles each day. This is unnecessary as your puppy will get plenty of exercise from running and playing on their own accord. A long, leashed walk will only serve to strain their joints, putting them at risk for hip dysplasia when they become a full-grown Great Dane.
What Is a Positive and Healthy Exercise Routine for your Great Dane Puppy?
Your Great Dane puppy does not need to walk long distances, rather needs a gentle giant friend to run around with, puzzle toys / mental stimulation, and a simple regular exercise routine. Great Danes LOVE mental stimulation. Mental stimulation also serves as a substitution for long walks.
Dog owners are more than happy to take their puppy to get physical exercise, short daily walks, and even visit a safe dog park.
Should I Take My Great Dane to the Dog Park?
Great Dane owners often visit a safe dog park with their puppies as a form of socialization. Many dog owners believe dog parks provide an opportunity for your puppy to meet and play with other dogs.
However, some (many) dog parks are actually not the best place to work with your Great Dane on their socialization skills.
Not all dog parks are dangerous. Many dog parks have an abundance of open space, allowing dogs to run and play without feeling confined. Alternatively, some dog parks are in close space and make Great Danes feel confined and stressed.
Make sure the park is fully fenced in with separate areas for small and large dogs, has plenty of shade, water, and poop bags available. Look for a park that does not allow aggressive behavior or dogs without responsible owners.
If you are not comfortable taking your Great Dane to dog parks, be sure to check-out our puppy socialization guide. In this guide, we provide many alternative and better suitable options for socializing your puppy.
It is important to remember that all dog owners are responsible for their own dog’s behavior, so always be aware of your surroundings and keep a close eye on your Great Dane.
Other ideas may include:
Expose your dog to multiple textures. Your puppies feet are PACKED with muscles that do require physical activity to remain strong. Sand, mud, gravel, water, grass, and other various textures are INCREDIBLE resources to helping your dog’s fitness. Let your puppy dig, run, play and walk in these textures. Your puppies feet will be thankful!
Go swimming! Swimming is an excellent, low-impact exercise program for both your Great Dane puppy and your adult Great Dane.
Work on training. For every 20 minutes spent training, it is worth 2+ miles of run walk cadence! Imagine how tired and fulfilled your puppy dog will be if you focus on your dog’s intelligence with important skills like socialization, separation anxiety, and basic commands.
Not only does how much exercise you give your Great Dane matter, but also the distance in which you run or walk with your Great Dane makes a difference as well. Your Great Dane might find it enough exercise to go on long walks (self-paced). But, once your Great Dane is full grown it could be appropriate to take them for a short jog.
Keep in mind that not all dog breeds can tolerate the same distance of runs. It is important to seek out a licensed veterinarian and find their advice and opinion on if your Great Dane should be your jogging buddy.
Speak With Your Local Veterinarian
If your local veterinarian agrees, begin with a very short jog to see how your dog handles it. Then, work your way up to a bit more exercise. If you notice excessive panting or lethargy, discontinue running with your dog immediately, as these behaviors could constitute pet medical advice.
Frequency when Exercising and Running with Great Danes
You do not want to begin running with your Great Dane excessively. Your are going to need to work your way up to being able to go running with your Great Dane. Remember- a Great Dane CAN be given too much exercise, but only when the exercise is in your control and not in the control of the Great Dane.
Begin to go on long walks once or twice a week to examine if your Great Dane seems to tolerate the duration and frequency. Then, you increase in duration and frequency.
Surface of Terrain
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that your Great Dane has an entirely different preferences with regards to the surface of terrain than you do.
Mud, Dirt, and Other Soft Terrains for Your Great Dane
Sand, gravel, and dirt are ideal surfaces for your dog to run or walk on – no matter their size. These materials are soft and help ease joint pressure from walks and runs.
Similarly, mud is one of the best surfaces to take your Great Dane running or walking on. Mud is beneficial for your Great Dane because it helps keep their joints cool and lubricated, as well as easing the impact on their feet while they run.
Short distance walks and runs are best for your Great Dane. A long, leashed walk is only going to serve to wear down their joints and increase the risk of hip dysplasia or other large breed diseases when they become an adult.
Avoid Concrete and Pavement with Your Great Dane
Other surfaces, like cement or concrete cause your Great Dane joint pain or other problems.
So, avoid hard surfaces like concrete and pavement. Instead, look for soft terrain like grass or well-groomed dirt and mud trails. These surfaces are much easier on your dog’s joints, feet and muscles, and they provide a more enjoyable experience for both of you.
However, even the best surfaces can’t completely protect your dog from injury. So, make sure to watch them closely and be prepared to adjust your route if necessary.
Check the Weather Before Your Jog
As any dog owner knows, different breeds of dogs have different tolerance levels for different weather conditions. For example, Great Danes are not known for being a relatively tolerant breed when it comes to hot weather. So, this means that they can tolerate hot surfaces such as pavement or sand. Products like Mushers which can be applied to the paw in order to protect them from the hot ground.
Do Great Danes Shed? Click here to see our favorite tools.
In fact, adult Great Danes joints are relatively fragile, which means that they also struggle on cold or slippery surfaces. As a result, they may need extra support in snowy or wet climates. Consider a weather jacket, such as an XL Rain Jacket or this Carhartt Winter Jacket for XL Dogs.
Nevertheless, Great Danes are generally a breed that can tolerate a wide range of weather conditions for short periods of times.
There is a lot of debate on the internet about whether or not dog food impacts how active a dog is. Some people believe that if you feed your dog a high-quality diet, they will be less likely to become overweight and lazy. Others think that feeding a dog commercial kibble or processed foods will make them gain weight and become inactive.
We have great resources for what to feed your Great Dane. Check it out here!
The truth is that there is no definitive answer to this question. Every dog is different, and will respond differently to different types of food.
What we can say for sure, however, is that a diet built for a Great Dane and their unique body type, health issues and breed will keep them healthy and fit. So, ensure that you feed them a quality diet that is appropriate for Great Danes size, health, joints, dental health, and growing rate.
Can Danes Go On Long Walks and Runs?
In conclusion, full grown Great Danes can go on short walks and runs, but should avoid long leashed walks. Free play, off leash play in a safe area, and activity allows your Great Dane to have their exercise within their own control, which keeps their daily exercise within THEIR control and not the owners demands.
Yes, it is okay to take your healthy, adult Great Dane on occasional jogs. However, if you are looking for a marathon training partner, a Great Dane is not your best choice in breed.
Other times, the Great Dane is just not the best work-out partner
Too much of the wrong types of exercise will lead to an increase in joint issues and possible arthritis and hip pain. Not to mention, your Great Dane just simply will prefer daily walks to too much exercise on vigorous leashed runs.
In Conclusion
Great Danes are a breed that tolerates a wide range of weather conditions, but should be watched closely while running. Allow as much of their physical activity to be through free play and independent exercise. Strengthening exercises like varying terrains will help many dogs feet and general conformation develop! Feed your Great Dane a quality diet that is appropriate for their size, health, joints, dental health, and growing rate.
Enjoy!
Hope this helped you and your Great Dane develop an exercise program that works for your family. Have fun with your doggy squats. Oh, and human squats too!
Do Great Danes shed? If you have a Great Dane, you may already know the answer!
Great Danes are BIG dogs and with big dogs usually comes BIG amounts of hair!
If you thought you were getting a short-haired, no-mess dog, think again!
Let’s dive in to the way that Great Danes shed, and how you can resolve the mess.
Do Great Danes Shed?
To begin, this is a question that many people have when they are considering getting this breed of dog. The answer is not quite as straightforward as you might think.
In this blog post, we will first discuss the various factors that determine whether or not a Great Dane will shed. Next, we will provide tips on how to reduce shedding in this breed of dog.
Great Danes, Shedding, Dog Brushes and More
Dog hair and dog brushes! Great Dane’s skin and… more hair!
Having a Great Dane with skin, coat, or shedding issues can be frustrating.
Owners don’t have to allow their Great Dane to live with the pain of chronic itch or the mess of shedding.
There are solutions!
Great Dane’s Skin and Coat
To begin, Great Danes shed a different amount. To start, Great Danes skin could be a contributing factor for whether they shed a lot or not. Consequently, if a Dane has itchy skin, they may shed more than one who doesn’t.
This is because flaky skin can cause the hair to fall out more easily.
Similarly, Great Danes who have allergies may also suffer from skin irritation, which can lead to excessive shedding.
If you notice that your dog’s ears are red or they have lost their shiny coat, their shedding may be a skin issue.
The quality of your Great Danes skin and coat impacts the dog hairs that fall out. A healthy Great Dane’s skin should be pink in color and free of any bumps, scabs, or other abnormalities.
Their coat should be shiny and free of irritation and redness. Naturally, a Great Dane with healthy skin and coat will shed less than one with unhealthy skin and coat. If your Great Dane dog’s coat has loose hairs, you should consider examining their skin.
Note: a high quality brush will not pull the hairs out of a Great Danes short coat. Most importantly, it allows the already dead skin to fall away and the natural oils distributed at the same time.
Likewise, Bristle brushes are also appropriate to use for healthy elimination of dog’s hairs. More on other rubber brushes later.
The third factor that determines whether or not a Great Dane will shed is the amount of time they spend outdoors.
Consequently, Great Danes who spend a lot of time outdoors in the sun and fresh air will shed less than those who spend most of their time indoors. In other words, when dogs lack vitamins from the sun, their hair will fall out.
If you find your home covered in Great Dane slobber and pet dog hair, you’ve come to the right spot. Next, let’s discuss other contributing factors as to what Great Dane owners may need to know about loose hair and their furry friend.
Dog Brushes and Grooming Tools: What is the best brush?
Unlike other items, there are so many brushes for Great Danes. There are ones with natural bristles, stainless steel bristles, bristle brush, a curry comb, or a slicker brush. It is overwhelming to determine what are the best brushes for Great Danes.
The truth is when Great Danes shed it is crucial to find a dog brush that works for all sensitive skin, short haired dogs, and eliminates loose hairs. We put the brushes to the test for Great Dane shedding. Next, we will discuss the slicker brush, rubber brushes, a popular JW Pet Bristle Brush, a Pin Brush, and what makes the best brush for your Great Dane dog.
The Furminator curry comb is great for removing dust and loose hair from your Great Danes coat. Because the brush has molded rubber teeth that stimulate natural oil production to promote healthy coats, it will feel secure in hand as well be comfortable on their skin.
This Furminator brush follows the natural contours of your pet’s head and body while it helps remove mats, tangles or loose hair. It features two brushes: one that works best on long-coated dogs with pins made from nylon bristles for tough messes; another side contains medium length furs.
This one is appropriate to use on a Great Danes short hair in most cases. The rubber brush bristles are soft enough not harm delicate skin but still provide leverage when removing dirt and loose hairs.
Mr. Peanut’s Hand Gloves collect loose fur and hair from your pet, for an easy grooming experience. Some find the hand glove easier to use than rubber brushes.
The soft rubber tips cover the palms of both hands in order to gently undo tangles while lifting dirt away.
They’re suitable regardless if you have long coats or short ones! Every purchase comes with one glove per hand. Mr. Peanuts Hand Gloves are one of our favorites. It is on our list for best dog brushes for Great Danes short hair.
The JW Pet Brush is a fantastic tool to have in your Great Dane dog brush arsenal. In fact, it is very durable and has an ergonomic design that prevents slipping. Also, the bristles on this brush are soft enough to not damage their delicate short coat. However, the bristles are firm enough to keep hair smooth while removing dead hair/clumping dirt particles during daily grooming sessions. As a result, it works great for short hair like a Great Danes. However, this brush is not suitable for a double coat.
Next, The Slicker Brush is perfect for use on all types of coats, from short to long.
Since it has fine wire bristles, it is great for Great Dane brushing on short haired dogs. For this reason it is great for use on sensitive skinned animals like horses or cats because the bristles are not too harsh! So if you have other dog breeds or animals, this may be an especially great option.
The De Shedding Brush Glove is a five finger design that has bristles on the fingers and round tips at palm of glove. This allows for versatility in removing dirt from short haired dogs along with removing their dead hair. It should be noted that it also keeps your hands clean from oils!
Best of all, many Great Danes also prefer the glove to remove loose hairs as it feels like a massage!
Does skin contribute to Great Dane excessive shedding?
While all dogs shed to some extent, some short haired dog’s are known for their excessive shedding. Unfortunately, Great Danes can be one of these breeds.
Many owners wonder if there is anything they can do to reduce the mess about the amount of hair their Great Danes shed.
Skin and Shedding Continued…
One factor that may contribute to Great Dane excessive shedding is the quality of the dog’s skin. Dry, flaky skin leads to excess shedding. This happens because the dead skin cells fall off with the hair. If your Great Dane’s skin appears dry or irritated, talk to your veterinarian about ways to improve skin health.
Medicated Shampoo
In some cases, simply increasing the frequency of baths or using a medicated shampoo can help to reduce shedding. In other cases, underlying health conditions cause the dryness and will need to be checked out by a veterinarian.
Does Diet Contribute to Short Haired Dogs Shedding?
Does Diet Contribute to Shedding?
Next, diet may contribute to excessive shedding in short haired dogs. Undoubtedly, dogs that are not getting enough nutrients in their diet shed more than those that are well-nourished. In particular, omega-fatty acids have been shown to play a role in healthy skin and coat.
Below are a few of our favorite items for a Great Dane dog’s coat:
Fish Oil
UsingFish Oil: One of the best ways to provide your dog with omega-fatty acids is through fish oil. Fish oil supplements come in liquid or capsule form and go on top of your dog’s food.
Oatmeal Shampoo: Oatmeal shampoo can be beneficial for dogs with dry skin. Look for a shampoo that contains oatmeal as one of the first few ingredients. You can also make your own Oatmeal Shampoo by following this recipe by the AKC.
Recipe for Oatmeal Shampoo:
You will need the following ingredients: 1 cup of uncooked oatmeal, 1/2 cup of baking soda, 1 quart of warm water.
The Purpose of Oatmeal Shampoo Baths
This oatmeal dog shampoo is perfect for shedding Great Danes. Best of all, it will hydrate and nourish your pup’s fur while cleaning him thoroughly, so he can be happy in no time! You will use some oats (ground up into flour), baking soda and warm water. Then, follow these instructions to make the most amazing smelling self-care product ever: Homemade Oatmeal Shampoo.
Using Conditioner
Conditioner: Conditioner can help to add moisture to the skin and coat and reduce shedding. Use a conditioner that is for dogs. Avoid any meant for human use.
As you know, a healthy coat is essential for any dog, but it is especially important for Great Danes. In order to keep their coats healthy, Great Danes need regular brushing and bathing. Since brushing helps to remove dead hair and distribute natural oils throughout the coat, it is a must!
Air Drying Your Great Dane
It is important to note, the best time to brush is after the dog has been bathed and allowed to air dry. Also, bathing should be done only when necessary, as over-washing can strip away natural oils and leave the skin feeling dry and irritated. By following these simple tips, you can help keep your Great Dane’s skin healthy.
Natural oils and Loose Hair
Dogs are infamous for their loose hair, and Great Danes are no exception. In fact, the loose hair of a Great Dane can be a real nuisance, particularly when it comes to brushing and grooming.
Is Loose Hair a Positive?
Ultimately, it’s important to remember that the loose hair serves an important purpose: it helps to protect the dog’s skin from drying out.
Since the oils in a Great Dane’s coat help to keep the hair in place, and the loose hair helps to trap those oils, keeping the skin healthy and hydrated is crucial. Without the loose hair, the dog’s skin would be much more susceptible to dryness and irritation. So while it may be annoying to deal with, the loose hair is actually a good thing!
Dry skin
Dry skin is a common problem for many dog owners, but it can be especially troublesome for those with short-haired breeds. Great Danes are particularly prone to dry skin, due to their large size and lack of protective fur. The best way to combat dry skin in Great Danes is to increase the amount of fatty acids in their diet. Fatty acids help to moisturize the skin and promote healthy cell growth.
They can be found in certain foods, such as fish and flaxseed oil, or they can be taken as supplements. In addition, regular baths with a mild shampoo can help to hydrate the skin and remove any dead cells or dirt that could be exacerbating the problem.
Can you Reduce Great Danes Shedding?
First, as anyone who has ever owned a Great Dane knows, these gentle giants are notorious shedders. To begin, their thick coats can seem to produce an endless supply of hair, which can quickly become a nuisance.
Tips to Reduce Shedding:
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to reduce Great Dane shedding.
Regular Baths
First, be sure to give them regular baths and brush them with a sturdy dog brush designed for Great Danes. This will help to remove any loose hair and reduce the amount of hair they shed on a daily basis.
High Quality Food
Second, feed them a high-quality dog food that is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. This type of food helps to promote a healthy coat, which in turn will lead to less shedding.
Frequent Brushing
Finally, make sure to brush your Great Dane regularly. As you know with short haired dogs, regular brushing helps to remove any loose hair and distribute natural oils throughout their coat.
By following these simple tips, you can help reduce Great Dane shedding and keep your home looking clean and tidy.
How often should you brush your Great Danes?
Any pet owner knows that shed hair is simply a fact of life. But for those with Great Danes, dealing with shed hair can be especially challenging. Great Dane’s can be prone to skin irritation, which often means more hair. Great Danes thick coats quickly fill up a brush. As a result, many Great Dane owners find themselves wondering how often they should be brushing their dog.
The Answer
The answer, of course, depends on a number of factors. For instance, if your dog is shedding more than usual, you may need to brush them more frequently. On the other hand, if they’re shed less hair than normal, you can get away with brushing them less often. In general, however, it’s best to brush your Great Dane at least once a week.
Getting a good brush can help to eliminate dead hairs and help their short hair stay healthy. If your Great Dane sheds, know that other dog breeds do as well.
Short Haired Dog vs. Long Haired Dogs
Deciding between a short haired dog and a long haired dog is no easy task. Both types of dog breeds have their own unique set of benefits and drawbacks. For instance, double-coated breeds are known for being higher-maintenance when it comes to grooming.
Allergy Sufferers
Additionally, these same dogs can shed massive amounts of fur, which can be a problem for allergy sufferers. The best dog brushes for Great Dane’s fur is going to be different than for those with long hair or a double coat.
Differences in Brush Styles Based on Need
Also, long haired dogs like the Shih Tzu require high quality brushes and regular grooming sessions to prevent mats and tangles from forming. However, these same dogs often don’t shed as much as their double-coated counterparts.
Ultimately, the best type of dog for you will depend on your own capacity to handle pet’s fur, and if your dog will be brushed regularly. in the end, all breeds whether they are dogs with double coats / thick coat, massive dogs / Great Danes, or other short haired breeds, they are going to shed to an extent.
In conclusion:
The short answer is, yes Great Danes do shed. But with the proper care and grooming, you can help reduce the amount of hair they shed on a daily basis. By following these simple tips, you can keep your home clean and tidy, and your Great Dane happy and healthy.
What is your opinion?
Do you have any tips for reducing Great Dane shedding? Share them in the comments below!
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about Great Danes, be sure to check out our other blog posts. We cover a wide range of topics, from training and exercise tips, to breed history and interesting facts.
Happy tails!
Do you have any tips for reducing Great Dane shedding?
Looking for a Great Dane feeding chart with some awesome food information? Curious about the best foods for Great Danes, and what dog food to raise your Dane puppy on?
This is the ULTIMATE everything you need to know about feeding Great Danes blog post. We’re going to cover the following topics:
The best food for Great Dane Puppies
Whether adult food or puppy food is best for Great Dane puppies
How to choose food for Great Danes
How to prevent knuckling and other orthopedic disorders
Why nutrition is SO important for Great Danes, especially those under the age of 2!
PRO TIP: This post is huge. Use the table of contents to navigate.
Let’s dig in!
Why is Nutrition SO Important for Great Danes?
Great Danes are a giant breed dog that has sensitive needs when it comes to their bone, joint, muscle, brain, and heart health.
These are not dogs who can survive well on unbalanced or poorly formulated dog foods. As puppies, rapid growth demands exact amounts of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D and zinc.
Many orthopedic growth disorders in Great Danes are a result of feeding too much calcium, or feeding too much food overall. The results are devastating and may not be apparent until the dog is older and suffering with their mobility and health.
Researchers have theorized that too much or too little calcium fed to large & giant breed puppies may contribute to increasing their risk for diseases such as brittle bones, Wobblers and Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer) as adults.
Choosing food for a Great Dane puppy is important, but it’s also very simple when you learn what to look for and how to look past common dog food marketing tactics.
Great Dane Puppy Food & Nutrition
Great Dane Puppies are massive dogs that need a specific diet to ensure they grow at a healthy rate. As mentioned above, Giant breeds are not like other dogs, it’s important to know how to choose the right food.
Before we dig in, it’s important to understand that excess calcium and overfeeding are #1 culprits behind a range of orthopedic growth problems seen in Great Dane puppies.
Because giant breed puppies grow so quickly, the wrong nutrition can be devastating and cause a lifetime of orthopedic problems.
We aren’t trying to scare you here, but this is important. Don’t worry, we’re going to share information with you below on what food to choose!
Here are some of the (often lifetime) health complications associated with feeding the wrong food to Great Dane Puppies:
When choosing food for a Great Dane puppy, we recommend the following guidelines:
Grain-inclusive
1.2% or less calcium
Phosphorus close behind
1.1 to 1 or 1.2 to 1 CA/PH ratio, no more than 1.3 : 1 if necessary
3.5g or less calcium per 1000kCal
Large or giant breed PUPPY formula OR an appropriately formulated All Life Stages type
AAFCO statement “Including the growth of large 70+ lb as adult dogs”
A healthy, correctly balanced diet can help prevent devastating orthopedic growth disorders (such as knuckling, panosteitis, HOD, or Dysplasia) and will help make sure that your Great Dane puppy is receiving the nutrition it needs to thrive.
To save you some time, here is our popular list of appropriate veterinary recommended Great Dane puppy foods.
Check out THE GIANT DOG FOOD PROJECT to compare brands and values.
Should Great Dane Puppies Have Adult or Puppy Food?
You may have heard that Great Dane puppies should ONLY have adult food. This information is outdated and potentially dangerous (it’s 2023).
Great Dane puppies should be fed a well-formulated large or giant breed PUPPY or All Life Stages food that was designed specifically to support the slow, even growth of large and giant breed dogs.
That advice to feed adult foods is based on anecdotal evidence and is NOT supported by science.
Most top Great Dane breeders, Board-certified Veterinary Nutritionists, researchers from Cornell, Tufts, and CSU, and the solid majority of practicing veterinarians recommend feeding large or giant breed puppy food to giant breed puppies.
There are a handful of people who are still telling giant breed owners to feed low-protein adult foods. These people include dog owners, a few practicing veterinarians who have not done any continuing education on the topic, and some breeders (many of whom are actually unethical in their other practices, having skipped full OFA health testing or breeding dogs out of standard).
A few old school highly ethical preservation breeders still feed adult food, and this is understandable. They remember the days when we did NOT have safe options in puppy food, and trusting the new standard of practice is a huge leap of faith.
Why Should Great Dane Puppies Have Puppy Food?
Many adult dog foods lack the nutrition that Great Dane puppies need for muscle development, brain health, tendons, and bones.
Lacking this nutrition, puppies may actually eat too many calories and receive too much calcium, two things that are major risk factors for developmental skeletal disorders in giant breed dogs.
We believe that this is a major reason why we see so many teenaged Great Danes who are hopelessly lanky and boney, and many adult Danes who fall apart well before their time.
They are starved for nutrition to support their growth!
Dane puppies will overeat to compensate and then also suffer from chronic loose stools, which are a direct result of overeating. People blame the loose stools on chicken or grain allergies, not realizing that the solution is literally right in front of them.
Science and nutrition in dog food have changed drastically. “Adult food only” is tragically dated advice.
Keep in mind, however, that some puppy foods are DANGEROUS for Great Dane puppies to eat. A traditional high-calorie, high-fat puppy food for smaller dogs is not appropriate.
What are the Top Foods for a Great Dane Puppy?
The brand of food you choose matters here, though.
Many brands do NOT have qualified people formulating their foods. They do not participate in research, feeding trials, or truly comprehensive quality control testing. As a result, their puppy formulas may not be reliably correct to support slow growth.
A lot of brands are manufactured in facilities that the company doesn’t even own, spit out from machines that made a different brand the day before.
This is why you will not find brands such as Victor, Taste of the Wild, Blue Buffalo, Diamond, Fromm, Orijen, Earthborn, Whole Hearted, Health Extension, Annamaet, or 4Health on our list. None of them can check every single box when it comes to ethics and dedication to formulation, research, and manufacturing.
The food MUST be correctly balanced as follows:
Formulated by an on-staff veterinary nutritionist or somebody with a PhD in Animal Nutrition
Has meat meals or meat by-product meals within the first ingredients (will result in a higher meat content than ‘fresh deboned meat’
Amino acids correctly balanced and bioavailable, ideally from meat based sources
Balanced calcium and phosphorus ratios (IMPORTANT!)
Balanced protein, fat, and carbohydrate levels
Correct amount of vitamin D, Zinc, and other important nutrients
Includes grains such as wheat, oats, rice, or corn
Ideally manufactured in owned facilities
Formula should have ideally undergone feeding trials and lab testing
To best fit those needs, we recommend a large or giant breed PUPPY food from Pro Plan, Eukanuba, Hill’s, or Royal Canin (the only brands that spend millions of dollars each year investing in feeding trials, board-certified veterinary nutritionists, and peer-reviewed research).
You can use the search tool at the Giant Dog Food Projectas well, to compare brands head to head.
If you have any questions about what kind of dog food is best for your Great Dane Puppy to eat, read our blog post HERE or continue below (we’ve included recommendations for our favorites):
Most Dane pups will need to eat between 3 and 12 cups of large breed puppy food each day. The actual amount depends on their activity level and the food you choose! We outline more of this below.
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) is a non-profit organization that provides common-sense recommendations. WSAVA does not endorse or recommend any specific brand of food, and their scientific efforts go far beyond nutrition into every aspect of small animal health.
Any food brand can donate to and support the WSAVA, however, only a few do.
Surprisingly, many kibble manufacturers do not meet thefollowing common-sense guidelines:
The company employs a DACVN/board-certified Veterinary Nutritionist or PhD in Animal Nutrition, and that person is there to formulate and test the diets.
They utilize AAFCO feeding trials to prove their formulation, especially the one you want to feed, in real life (not just on paper).
The company participates in scientific research and contributes to common peer-reviewed studies.
They own and operate their own facilities (no co-packing) and have strict supply chain protocols, sourcing ethics, sourcing protocols and quality control.
The food has a nutrition adequacy statement from AAFCO, ideally indicating that the food was substantiated in feeding trails.
Call your food company and ask these questions. Look past their marketing department and get real answers from them about their practices.
Tread cautiously with the places you receive nutrition information from. Many dog owners, influencers and “pet nutritionists” are spreading dangerous misinformation.
For more helpful information about canine nutrition and manufacturer practices, search for your brand at the Pet Nutrition Alliance! They’ve established a database that answers important and relevant questions for each company that you might choose from.
You can also visit the Tufts University Petfoodology Blog for information about corn, by-products, DCM, and other nutrition-related topics.
Pet Vet Corner on Facebook has a fantastic nutrition file (search for the group and join).
When your Great Dane is 18-24 months old, it’s time to transition to an adult formula. Ideally, the transition should happen no sooner than 24 months but can happen after 18 months if early spay/neuter was elected.
Remember, puppy foods are higher in calories, fat, and protein and may be too rich for mature adult dogs or those that have been spayed/neutered. Great Danes are not fully mature until age 2.5-3 years.
Click below to see our favorite adult foods for Great Danes:
Most quality Great Dane food will indicate a rough estimate based on age or weight, which is a good baseline for determining how much food daily will be required.
Your Great Dane puppy is going to eat a lot of food! New Great Dane owners may be alarmed at the intake but shouldn’t be.
It’s important to note, however, that orthopedic growth disorders can be triggered by overfeeding, even if the food is correctly balanced! Monitor your dog’s intake and don’t let them gorge on food.
Lean is best! It is normal to see some ribs on Great Dane puppies.
While it’s true that too much kibble can actually cause a Great Dane puppy to experience gastrointestinal distress (and loose stools), too little kibble can hamper energy as well as good muscle and bone development.
Healthy Body Condition in Great Dane Puppies
It is normal for Great Dane puppies to have a little rib showing!
As long as they are bright, active, curious, and energetic, they are doing great.A Great Dane Puppy should never be overfed to encourage fast and explosive growth!
Too much nutrition, overfeeding, and too many calories can lead to knuckling, HOD, Panosteitis, and poor overall structure, no matter what formula or food brand you choose.
When looking at a Great Dane feeding chart to determine roughly how much to offer your 12-week-old Great Dane puppy, it’s important to remember that the information is simply a guideline. Good feeding practices involve intuition and close monitoring!
If you have any questions about how much food to feed your Great Dane puppy, please consult your veterinarian, read the feeding chart on your kibble bag, and reference our Great Dane feeding chart below.
These values are averages. Your pet may need more or less. Always talk to your veterinarian and use the manufacturer’s feeding chart as a guideline.
How to Feed a Great Dane Puppy
When it comes to Great Dane puppies, how you feed them is just as important as what you feed them.
Puppies have small stomachs and need to eat several small meals throughout the day, rather than one large meal. They will also need frequent potty breaks as their digestive systems are still very immature.
We recommend that your Great Dane eats from a using stainless steel bowl. These are easy to sanitize and can help prevent puppy acne!
Frequent smaller meals can help prevent bloat, a potentially deadly condition that can occur in large and giant breeds.
To avoid creating a ‘picky eater’, do not start adding toppers as a form of bribery!
For puppies under 3-5 months of age, we recommend a loose free feeding schedule where you put food down 3x/day but leave in the bowl what they don’t finish, so they can graze. Don’t overfeed.
After 5 months of age, offer food 3x/day and pick the bowl up. Pup will learn to finish what is offered.
Around 7-10 months of age, many Danes need less food. People sometimes believe this means their dog has become picky. That’s not true! Just feed less.
Using Kibble for Training
Another way to feed your Great Dane is to offer their pre-rationed kibble and healthy balanced toppers as training treats!
Keep them in a treat pouch (this is our favorite one) and use them throughout the day to reward your dog for doing things that you like.
Engaging with you, sitting, laying down, and coming when called are great ways to encourage positive behaviors!
Resting before & after meals has never been shown to prevent bloat. As a matter of fact, most dogs who experience bloat do so while resting and on an empty stomach. It’s ok for your puppy to have training rewards while playing with you!
Science in Dog Food
After years of diligent research, I’ve personally come to realize that the answer to dog food had been in front of me all along.
The unfortunate truth is that many dog food brands are spending more money on marketing than they are on formulating their foods, researching how nutrition affects the body, and contributing to peer-reviewed science that addresses giant breed growth, cancer, wobblers, heart disease, and more.
That marketing is designed to mislead us. For example, ingredient splitting is a common practice of certain brands. Ingredient splitting is completely legal and can make dog food look like an organic meat feast when the truth is that it’s nothing more than meat-flavored peas.
Fresh deboned meats, for example, are roughly 70% water. Pair that with ingredient splitting and a formulation that came from a computer (not a veterinary nutritionist), and well…you’re often paying a premium price for fancy marketing.
You may be inclined to think that the ‘holistic’, ‘super premium’, ‘human grade’ choice at the pet store is the healthier option. Keep in mind that those are unregulated marketing terms with no legal definition.
You may be ‘grossed out’ by things such as ‘by-product meal’ or ‘meat meal’, but those ingredients are actually more nutritious and more species appropriate than deboned meat!
Many Great Dane owners rely on kibble brands from companies such as Fromm, Zignature, Nutro, Victor, Nulo, 4Health, Farmina, Solid Gold, Taste of the Wild, Life’s Abundance, Earthborn, Honest Kitchen, Canine Caviar, Acana, Orijen, Gentle Giants, Diamond Natural’s and Costco/Kirklands.
Search for your brand at the Pet Nutrition Alliance. See how they stack up against other brands that were asked a few simple questions. If they didn’t answer or refused to answer, find a different brand.
The brands we’ve listed in the paragraph above are NOT formulated by on-staff veterinary nutritionists, and we don’t recommend a single one of them.
Fromm is formulated by a chemical engineer.
Victor is formulated by a guy with a science degree and simple online certificate in ‘nutrition’.
Diamond (which makes Diamond, Costco, 4Health, Taste of the Wild, Nutra Nuggets, and others) is a giant co-packing company. They use a single off-site, marginally qualified consultant and a ‘proprietary formulation technology’ (a computer program or spreadsheet).
Midwestern pet foods (which makes Earthborn, Sportmix, Unrefined, Venture, and Wholesomes) is another giant company with no Veterinary Nutritionist on staff (not to mention repeated issues with aflatoxins and salmonella).
Unrefined is an excellent example of a ‘premium’ label that uses a lot of fancy marketing words and makes you think it’s a small, family-owned healthy option. It’s formulated, packed, and shipped along side several other Midwestern Pet Foods brands, each targeting different demographics.
These are huge companies, selling their products as ‘premium’, at a premium price point, and not a single bag of it is backed by legitimate feeding trials or peer reviewed research.
Identity Pet Foods ‘Understanding DCM’ (I don’t love that this small, upstart brand is anti-kibble, uses a co-packer, has no feeding trials, does not provide AAFCO statements, and does not staff a veterinary nutritionist as of 2022, but I do love what they are trying to do as a whole and this DCM article is ON POINT!)
Kibble Brands to Avoid
While there are many brands to avoid, these brands are absolutely on the ‘do not fly’ list. We’ve reviewed some of them below for your convenience.
Any food that is ‘vegan’, ‘plant based’ or ‘cricket based’ (NEW EXCEPTION: ROOT LAB may be acceptable)
Any food with 2 or more types or forms of PEAS, LENTILS, or LEGUMES listed in the ingredients. For example peas, dried peas, pea protein, pea fiber, pea flour, split peas, yellow peas, green peas, lentils, whole lentils, lentil fiber, etc.)
Any food that has a lot of peas, potatoes, legumes, garbanzo beans, beans, sweet potatoes, or chickpeas in general
Any one of the 300-400 new boutique food brands in the U.S. each year
What about Dog Food Advisor?
Many people turn to the ‘Dog Food Advisor’ blog to make decisions about what food to feed.
While that blog provides some interesting analysis about certain kibbles, it’s important to note that the blog is run by a dentist…NOT a Veterinarian or a Canine Nutritionist with any kind of legitimate, commonly accepted credentials. The blog is extremely profitable, as it is littered with affiliate links to purchase foods.
The rating system is made up, and has been changed to match current trends.
If you don’t trust your veterinarian because they are “not a nutritionist”, why are you trusting pet store employees, dog owners, the Dog Food Advisor, influencers, and people who obtained easy pay-for-purchase ‘pet nutritionist’ certificates on the internet?
If you are looking for a nutrition blog that uses science and actual research, not marketing and theories, visit PETFOODOLOGY! It’s run by Tufts University and has many helpful topics.
At Hello Danes, we follow, promote, and share the advice given by board-certified veterinary nutritionists.
Adult Great Dane Dog Food
Adult Great Danes still require dedication to their nutrition.
As an adult, your Great Dane will need a quality dog food that is rich in animal protein to maintain lean muscle mass.
The most appropriate meats that you want to see in the dry dog food you choose include meat meals and meat by-product meals. We recommend chicken, salmon, or beef.
Chicken allergies are wildly over-diagnosed by dog owners. Contrary to popular belief, Great Danes are NOT sensitive to chicken!
They are, however, sensitive to poor quality diets, environmental factors, overfeeding, and issues related to gut health that are resolved through other means.
Avoid lamb (it’s incredibly difficult for dog food manufacturers to work with, and may cause nutrient deficiencies) and exotic meats such as bison, cod, quail, kangaroo, or yak. Exotic meats are not well researched for small companion animals.
Meat meals of any type (including by-product meals) include a rendered form of whole prey. That means that the ingredient includes things such as meat, tissue, cartilage, bone, and organ.
While this may sound gross to you, these things are loved in parts of the world that don’t waste any part of an animal after slaughter. They are also the same things that make up a correctly balanced bowl of raw dog food: necks, feet, guts, skin, and fat.
Raw feeders know that dogs need and want by-products in their diet! They go straight for the organs, will crunch up the bones and love to chew up feet, necks and yes, eyeballs.
Choose a kibble formulated with your dog in mind, not your personal taste.
Transition to a comparable adult formula between 18-24 months.
Fiber, fresh foods, and canned foods have been shown in studies to reduce bloat risk!
The safest topper you can add to your dog’s food is a canned version of their kibble. This has been shown to reduce bloat risk, will be correctly balanced, is tasty, provides hydration, and will be free of salmonella and e.coli.
When offering puppies canned food, make sure you are choosing the large breed puppy version.
We love Olewo’ Carrots (rehydrated) which are great for your dog’s stomach and overall gut health. 1 TBSP of dried Olewo Carrots will make over a half cup of fresh carrots to mix in with the kibble you feed your Great Dane.
Olewo Carrots work BETTER than pumpkin and are easier to store, too!
We also like Dr. Harvey’s for easy, healthy fiber & fresh food toppers!
While some of these are technically made to be served as a whole meal with raw meat, they actually make a great ‘topper’ (less than 4-10% of all intake) for kibble and well-balanced raw diets.
Rehydrate a scoop or two of this with water! Dogs love it and the bag lasts a long time, too.
Can Great Danes have Grain-Free Food?
Grain-inclusive kibble formulas are best for Great Dane, as they are less likely to be filled with peas, potatoes, legumes, and pea protein that can throw off the balance of important amino acids.
These amino acids, including taurine, are necessary for heart health. Many grain-free food options are nothing more than meat-flavored peas.
Many dogs have been diagnosed with DCM (heart failure) caused by grain-free foods and foods of all types that were not formulated by veterinary nutritionists.
We recommend the addition of fish oil and Dasaquin or Green Lipped mussel, especially if your kibble food does not include these supplements in the ingredients list.
A quality science-backed food with meat meal or meat by-product meal (such as Royal Canin Giant Breed Adult) will contain joint support!
Big dogs benefit from the addition of these, and probiotics for their health.
Home-cooked diets are rarely healthy and can be exceedingly difficult to get right.
Balance It is a great website for determining if you are formulating your home-cooked diet for your Great Dane correctly. Test your recipe over there!
We haven’t found a dog food recipe on Pinterest yet that was balanced correctly.
You’ll likely find that the very common homemade Great Dane food diet consisting of ground meat, rice, and veggies is horribly deficient. Even recipes created by influencers and veterinarians (such as the famous ‘pup loaf’ by holistic influencer Judy Morgan) is dangerous.
I plugged Dr. Judy Morgan’s pup loaf recipe into Balance It, and the system could NOT resolve the recipe as-is (meaning, it’s unbalanced). It also indicated that the recipe could result in dangerous levels of vitamin D!
What your Great Dane eats will affect their health, and unfortunately, most home cooks have little to no credible background in canine nutrition!
An unbalanced home-cooked diet may be missing key nutrients, proteins, and amino acids that are necessary for a long and robust life.
Great Dane dogs are particularly susceptible to health issues of the heart and bones; an incorrectly formulated home-cooked diet for a Great Dane can be exceptionally dangerous.
Many veterinarians say that brittle bones are a very common complication associated with clients who make their dogs food at home.
One study found that nearly all of the 200 recipes they tested had nutrient deficiencies. (READ THAT STUDY HERE).
That’s not to say that it cannot be done! As a matter of fact, with the help of a board-certified Veterinary Nutritionist and the website listed above (Balance It) you can take full control over what your dog eats.
If you want to offer food that is similar to a home-cooked diet, we recommend looking into Just Food For Dogs.
This fresh food option for Great Danes is a professionally formulated alternative to DIY. The jury is out on if it fully and truly meets the WSAVA guidelines above. However, it is a tested food with a respectable staff of formulators behind it.
There is nothing wrong with kibble. Don’t feel pressured or guilted into spending large amounts of money on ‘fresh’ or ‘holistic’ options.
Just Food For Dogs can be used as the entire diet, or as an outstanding fresh-food topper that dogs LOVE. It is VERY expensive.
For young dogs, we recommend the chicken and white rice or fish and sweet potato flavor only. As of this writing, they are the only ones formulated correctly for the growth of large or giant breed dogs.
Free Feeding Great Danes
Many pet lovers who offer kibble wish to free-feed their Great Danes.
Contrary to popular belief, resting after meals is not a reliable preventative for bloat in Great Danes! That’s great news for people who do not mind when their Great Danes eat and would prefer allowing them to graze.
The only difference is that instead of scheduling meals, you will offer food around meal times and leave the bowl down for your dog to graze.
Free-feeding can result in obesity. Talk to your veterinarian.
We recommend feeding 2-3 meals/day.
How to Reduce Bloat Risk
Always encourage slow eating! Fast eating, scarfing, gulping, and guarding are key predictors of bloat risk.
As a matter of fact, we believe that slow eating is a much more reliable way to reduce bloat risk in giant breed dogs than large, quickly-eaten meals followed by rest.
Studies show that bloat most often happens 2-3 hours after meals and often while resting or in the middle of the night!
Stop stressing every time your Dane eats food! Bloat is related to genetics: pedigree, temperament & gut health.
Our Great Dane feeding chart (below) still applies when choosing to free feed a Great Dane. Adult food requirements will be different than they will be for a 12 or even 18 week old Great Dane.
Resource Guarding & Picky Eaters
One important thing to note when choosing a free Great Dane feeding ‘schedule’ is that it will be inappropriate for some dogs. Great Danes that scarf food, guard food, stress about food, nitpick food, or obsess about it will require diligent training and management.
For those dogs, we recommend 2-3 meals each day, fed in a stress-free environment, and offered in a slow feeder bowl or food puzzle to manage intake and reduce scarfing (which can increase bloat risk and contribute to an unfortunately short life span).
Picky eaters benefit from scheduled mealtimes, not more enticing toppers or yet another change to the food offered!
Many pet parents are unsure of how much to feed a Great Dane or their Great Dane puppy. The condition of your Great Dane is the best indicator of how much food you should (or should not) be feeding.
If your Great Dane or Great Dane puppy is at a healthy weight, you are likely feeding the appropriate amount. Adult Great Danes should be on large or giant breed adult or senior formula.
Use the food chart as your guide.
You can see roughly how much to feed your Great Dane by looking at the back of your bag of dog food. As above, a Great Dane puppy may need to eat more than an adult Great Dane.
If your dog is overweight or obese, you will need to reduce your dog’s food intake and make sure they don’t get too many calories from their food, wet food, treats, or toppers.
If your dog is underweight, you may need to add more food and closely monitor food intake.
Age
Timing
Amount
Puppies under 12 weeks
3x/day
2-4 cups/day
Puppies 12-24 weeks old
3x/day
3-6 cups/day
Puppies 24 + weeks (6 months) or older
2x/day
5-10 cups/day
Puppies 12-18 months
2x/day
6-12 cups/day
Adults 18+ Months
2x/day
4-8 cups/day
These values are averages. Your pet may need more or less. Always talk to your veterinarian and use the manufacturer’s feeding chart as a guideline.
The easiest way to check your dog’s body condition is to use the Body Condition Score. This nine-point system is based on how easily you can feel your dog’s ribs and whether or not there is an obvious waist.
For the Great Dane breed, you want to see a defined waist, a tuck in the abdomen, and good muscle development. Great Dane dogs should be lean and fit, never heavy or slow.
In general, a female Great Dane will be smaller, and a male Great Dane will have more substance. ‘Euro’ is a marketing term and not actually a reason for a dog to be heavy, chunk or overweight.
If you are unsure of your dog’s body condition, please consult your veterinarian.
An Underweight Great Dane
A Healthy Weight Great Dane
An Overweight Great Dane
What if my Great Dane is Picky?
If your Great Dane or Great Dane puppy is turning their nose up at food, always address medical reasons first.
Most ‘picky’ dogs have either had enough and don’t actually need more kibble, or they have trained you to offer them different foods (they know you’ll give in)!
Remember, any Great Dane feeding chart that you find is a loose guideline, not a hard recommendation. If you really feel that your Great Dane is not eating enough, you must first start with a veterinary visit to rule out health problems.
You can also try enticing toppers such as raw egg, bone broth, Dr. Harvey’s (rehydrated), or canned foods; however, tread cautiously!
Bribing your dog to eat is a rabbit hole that you may not want to go down. Dogs will work for their food (training) and will not let themselves starve.
Giant breed puppies have big appetites and can eat up to 12 cups of food per day!
The cost of feeding a giant breed puppy will depend on the quality of food you choose and the size of your puppy.
On average, you can expect to spend $50-$100 per month on food for your giant breed puppy.
We also recommend supplements that can benefit the joints, increase gut health and reduce bloat risk.
Our favorite supplements for Great Dane owners to consider include:
Great Dane Feeding Chart
We recommend using this Great Dane Feeding Chart as a guide:
Fast-growing 12-week old Great Dane pups may actually eat more than adult Great Danes!
Because they tend to grow larger, a male Great Dane may also need more food than a female Great Dane. Great Danes in general have more complex nutritional needs than other breeds!
When considering exactly how much to feed a Great Dane, we recommend starting with the feeding chart on the back of the bag.
FEEDING GUIDELINES FOR GREAT DANES
This chart assumes you are feeding a quality kibble. Every kibble is different and some have more nutrition per cup than others. Some puppies receive more exercise or have a higher metabolism than others, too.
Remember that adding a lot of treats or toppers will change these ratios! These feeding guidelines are based on Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Formulas. Other kibbles and fresh foods may be different, and raw feeding will be by weight, not volume.
Age
Timing
Amount
Puppies under 12 weeks
3x/day
2-4 cups/day
Puppies 12-24 weeks old
3x/day
3-6 cups/day
Puppies 24 + weeks (6 months) or older
2x/day
5-10 cups/day
Puppies 12-18 months
2x/day
6-12 cups/day
Adults 18+ Months
2x/day
4-8 cups/day
These values are averages. Your pet may need more or less. Always talk to your veterinarian and use the manufacturer’s feeding chart as a guideline.
Great Danes age 18-24 months +: switch to an adult formula and closely monitor body condition, especially after spay/neuter. We’ve linked to an important blog post on this topic below.
Does your Great Dane eat a lot? Leave a comment below! We’d love to know more about your Dane pup and the experience you’ve had with dog food.
We hope this Great Dane feeding chart has been helpful in determining how to best feed your pooch. As always, if you have any questions please consult your veterinarian.
Do you want to learn about the best toys for Great Danes? If you have a Great Dane, you know that they need plenty of exercise and stimulation to stay happy and healthy. In this blog post, we will discuss the best overall toys that will keep your pup entertained and help them stay fit!
Why are Danes big breeds? The Dane breed, along with the Mastiff, was originally developed for hunting wild boar. The “Pollo of Dogs” is regarded in some circles as the chillest and tallest (and we think best overall 😉 dog in the world and is known for its imposing appearance and imposing size.
The muscle builds of Great Danes have something that makes them attractive to many!
Great Danes are very energy tolerant and need walks and play. How many walks and activities he needs daily depends upon the exact temperament of your Great Dane.
Every Great Dane is very different. Great Danes playing.
Although Danes are relaxed, they thrive on exercise and play. Your adult Great Dane may need about 30 to 45 minutes of physical fitness daily, or significantly more.
Is your Great Dane struggling to walk on leash? We can help!
Do Great Danes Enjoy Toys?
Dog toys are designed to provide your dog with hours of fun and enrichment. But do Great Danes really enjoy playing with toys?
The answer may surprise you.
Great Danes are one of the best dog breeds when it comes to playing with toys. Not only do they love chew toys, but they also enjoy tugging games.
In fact, many Great Dane owners say that their dogs’ favorite activity is playing with their toys.
So if you’re looking for a dog breed that will enjoy playing with toys, a Great Dane is a great choice.
Personally, my Great Dane loves to play with her favorite toys including slobbery balls, tree branches, and treat dispensing engagement activities!
How to Keep My Great Dane Entertained?
Now that you know that Great Danes love playing with toys, how do you keep your Dane entertained?
One way is to provide them with a variety of different types of toys. It is also extremely beneficial to provide your pooch with things they ARE allowed to chew on like treats and chews.
Otherwise, your puppy can get destructive, and you may misinterpret that behavior for aggression. One good example is bully sticks which are long lasting for even aggressive chewers.
We love these Bully Bones which are a safe alternative to rawhide if you’ve got a big chewer:
This will keep them interested and engaged in playtime. Another way is to make sure that you play with your dog regularly.
Playing with regular puzzles, providing mental stimulation and allowing brain work along with exercise are great ways to get your Dane moving and having fun.
And finally, make sure that you provide plenty of opportunities for them to exercise. A tired Dane is a happy Dane!
What to Look For in Toys for Great Danes:
Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout
Although their personalities are well known for being kind to others, it is not surprising for the Danes to be hard on toys. When selecting the best dog toys you need one that is durable and fun.
Great Danes are one of the biggest breeds of dogs, and they love to play – especially with their toys. But what should you look for when choosing the best toys for your Great Dane?
Great Danes are Big Dogs
First, it’s important to choose toys that are larger than average, as Great Danes are much bigger than most other dog breeds. Second, look for toys that are durable and can stand up to rough play, as Great Danes tend to play rough.
And finally, if you have a puppy, look for toys that are specifically designed for puppies – they’ll be smaller and more manageable for your little one. With these things in mind, you’re sure to find the perfect toys for your Great Dane.
Large Toys are the Best Dog Toys for your Great Dane:
Great Danes are gentle giants, and as such, they need dane-friendly toys that can withstand their size and strength. Great Dane toys will be large, just like them!
Small Toys: Small toys are too small for Great Danes and can pose a choking hazard; therefore, it is essential to pick the toy that is the right size. Small sized items will not be the best toys for Great Danes.
Large Toys: Large toys are the best dog toys for Great Danes because they can safely play with them without risking injury. With large toys, you don’t risk them ingesting the toy or getting an obstruction. Look for large toys for Great Danes that will fit their bodies and mouths.
Toys that Encourage Your Great Dane to Stay Active
Secondly, Great Danes have a lot of energy and need to burn off excess energy through exercise. Not all big dogs are couch potatoes!
Therefore, large toys that require them to use their limbs and minds are ideal. Not every single dog toy has to be a traditional ball or game of fetch, either. A great example might be a chew toy, which is great for dog’s teeth and keeps them busy / active at the same time.
The best toys for Great Danes are those that help them stay active and also keep them doing low-impact activities for their joints.
Socialization Toys for Great Danes
Getting your giant dog moving with the perfect toy is easier than you think! Likewise, Great Danes are social creatures and love to play with other dogs and humans.
Since your Great Dane puppy loves to move and play, make sure their new toy encourages activity. Some of the most fun toys for Great Danes are ones that you can play with them! Therefore, large toys that they can share with their canine companions are ideal.
Soccer Ball Toys for Great Danes
For example, soccer balls often are a Great Dane’s favorite toy. Make sure the toy soccer ball is not a soft plush one. Your Gentle Giant will not be so gentle with a fun game of using that plush toy as a chew toy!
Durability is of Utmost Importance with Toys for Great Danes
When it comes to picking toys for Great Danes, durability is important. Your Great Dane has sharp teeth that can quickly destroy soft toys. When picking out toys for Great Danes, choose tough ones that will not break easily.
Elk Antlers: Elk antlers are a good option for chew toys because they are resilient and long lasting. However, elk antlers are also very expensive. Other chew toys may not be as expensive, but also may not last as long for a Great Dane.
Shop Elk Antlers Here. These textured dog antler bones are strong and durable.
Rubber Chew Toys for Great Danes: Likewise, hard rubber chew toys are durable, but sometimes not as much fun for your dog to chew on as a soft plush toy or stuffed animals. It is so important for your pup’s mouth to have a variety of textures.
Rope toys for Great Danes: Rubber Toys are a good option for tug-of-war games that won’t impact their neck/back/spine, but are also easily destroyed if your dog is a chewer.
Fetch Toys for Great Danes: Although many dogs love to fetch, we do NOT recommend playing fetch as there have been studies done that fetch actually harms the joints of large dogs. Avoid any dog toys that may turn into a fetch toy. Not all toys need to be used for fetch. For example, a toy ball or tennis ball can be used as a chew toy instead of fetch toy.
Kong Toys for Great Danes:Kong toys are some of the most popular dog toys on the market. They are made from durable rubber and can be filled with treats or food to keep your dog entertained for hours. You can sit back and watch your Great Dane play while you get other things marked off your to do list!
Great Dane Puppies Need Different Toys than an Adult Great Dane
Great Dane puppies need different toys than an adult Great Dane. This is because they are in a different stage of development and have different needs.
Puppies are constantly growing and their teeth are changing. Toys for Great Danes will vary depending on the stage of life they are in.
Best Great Dane Toys for Puppies
Puppies need toys that are safe for their teeth and that will not fall apart easily. Canine teeth in puppies are sharp, but will fall out prematurely if they chew on the wrong dog toy.
The average dog toy may not be appropriate for your puppy Great Dane. You need an abundance of chew toys. However, also being cautious of your new dog’s teeth and dental health.
Adults, on the other hand, have fully developed teeth and can handle more durable toys.
They also tend to be less active than puppies, so they don’t need as many toys. Consider a treat dispensing toy or interactive toy for your older Great Dane.
Your older Great Dane’s teeth are grown in, so they do not need as many chew toys.
Rather, encourage mental enrichment with a dispensing dog toy, puzzle toy or hide and seek toy. These provide mental stimulation and help to satisfy their boredom.
Both Adult Great Dane and Puppy Great Dane Toys Have One Thing in Common:
All Great Danes benefit from having a few key toys, such as chew toys, squeaky toys, and Kongs. Your Great Dane of ALL ages will love to play with Great Dane toys. After all, dogs love to have fun and most dogs love having their very own dog toy.
Photo Credit to Hellen at Mumukodogsquad (Picture of sweet Dakota!) Photo Credit to Hellen at Mumukodogsquad (Picture of sweet Dakota!)
Ultimately, you’ll need to decide what type of chew toy is the best dog toy for your Great Dane based on their chewing habits and your budget.
The 5 Best Great Dane Toys
1. Stuffed Toys
The Kong Cozies Plush Toy
The Kong Cozies Plush Toy: If you’re looking for some plush toys that will keep your Great Dane entertained, Kong Cozies are a great option.
These stuffed plush toys are made with a durable fabric that can withstand rough play, and they come in a variety of sizes to suit any dog.
They also have a built-in squeaker that will keep your pet entertained for hours.
However, Kong Cozies are not suitable for all dogs. Some may find the plush toys too flimsy to really enjoy playing with, and others may prefer more traditional stuffed toys. But if you’re looking for durable plush toys that your dog is sure to love, Kong Cozies are worth considering.
Snuggle Puppies are an amazing and convenient way to keep your pup calm if they have anxiety or fear of a crate. The Snuggle Puppy helps with separation anxiety because it has a heartbeat inside of it.
Many dog parents report that the sensation of a ‘mothers heartbeat’ helps calm their pup down. Just be careful if your dog is a shredder, as the ‘heart’ could be a choking hazard. However, when used appropriately, this toy can be a great help in raising a little one.
They come in adorable colors and you can even get one to match your new pup.
With their large size and powerful jaws, Great Danes can be tough on toys. That’s why it’s important to choose the best Great Dane toys that can withstand some abuse.
The Kong Classic Dog Toy is a popular choice for many pet parents because it’s made of durable rubber that can stand up to vigorous chewing.
Likewise, the Kong Classic Dog Toy can be stuffed with peanut butter or pureed fruit for a tasty treat.
Make sure to freeze the Kong before giving it to your Great Dane. Not only does it make a great dog toy, it also gives dog parents some free time while their Great Dane relaxes!
Farmhounds Rawhide Giant Beef Bone is a sun-dried, all-natural rawhide bone that’s perfect for your Great Dane.
It is not recommended by veterinary advice to give dogs rawhide with glue or chemicals.
However, the Farmhounds rawhide is completely safe as it has no chemicals OR glue. It’s long-lasting and provides hours of chewing fun.
Your pup will even eat less real wood sticks when they have this bone as a chew toy. Use this link for $20 off your purchase. Make sure to reach out to your veterinarian so that they can provide veterinary advice on unsafe use of store-purchased rawhide.
While all dogs are unique, Great Danes have some specific needs when it comes to toys.
They are large dogs with a lot of energy, so they need toys that can keep them entertained and engaged. Puzzle toys are a great option for Great Danes, as they can provide hours of fun and stimulation. Outward Hound’s Dog Puzzle is a great option for Great Danes.
It is made of durable materials and features a variety of shapes, colors, and textures to keep your dog interested.
If you’re looking for a great toy for your Great Dane, the Outward Hound Dog Puzzle is a great option to consider.
A few of our favorite Outward Hound Puzzles. (Blue/Orange Puzzle Here, Green/Teal Puzzle Here)
5. Planet Dog Snoops and Nooks Treat Dispensing Dog Toys
There are a lot of dog toys on the market, but not all of them are well-suited for Great Danes.
Some dog toys are simply too flimsy to stand up to the powerful jaws of a Great Dane, while others don’t offer enough of a challenge to keep these intelligent dogs entertained.
As you can see, whether it’s a tennis ball, plush toy, chew toy or puzzle toy, Great Danes love a good dog toy! The best toys for Great Danes is really in the eyes of the beholder: your unique and special Great Dane. Since you can’t ask your pooch which dog toy they think is the best Great Dane toy, we hope we did a great job of telling you which we like best!
Potty training a Great Dane puppy can seem daunting, but with these 11 simple steps, you’ll have your pup trained in no time! The most important thing to remember is to be consistent and patient.
Some puppies will take to potty training faster than others, so don’t get discouraged if your pup seems like it’s taking a little longer than expected. Just keep at it and soon enough they’ll be going outside like a pro!
1. Potty Training Great Dane Puppies Requires Establishing Routines
Great Dane potty training can be a bit tricky, however with these tips it will be a breeze! Great Dane’s are smart puppies but like all dogs, they should be taught where it is appropriate to go to the bathroom.
2. Regular Potty Breaks During Great Dane Potty Training
The first step in Great Dane potty training is establishing routines. Great Dane’s need to have regular potty breaks so that they know when it is time to go. Puppies usually need to go out every few hours, however as they get older they will be able to hold it for longer periods of time. During any and all Great Dane potty training days, use FREQUENT potty breaks to encourage your pup to use the bathroom. Remember that Great Dane potty training does not last forever!
3. Great Dane Potty Training Requires You to Figure Out a Schedule that Works Best
Additionally, it is important to remember that Great Danes are large dogs and will need more frequent potty breaks than smaller breeds. Altogether, establishing regular potty break routines is the first and most important step in potty training a Great Dane puppy.
Puppies typically pee RIGHT AWAY when they wake up in the morning. For that reason, you will want to be prepared to take them outside immediately when you/they wake up. During any and all days that you are working on Great Dane potty training, know that you may clean up accidents more so in the mornings.
As a rule of thumb for Great Dane potty training: your puppy will likely need to potty every hour per how many months old they are. So, if they are 8 weeks, they will need to potty every 2 hours (2 months).
4. Develop a Strong Crate Feeding Process During Great Dane Potty Training
Although the training process for a Great Dane puppy can be long and frustrating, crate training is a great place to start. Crate training helps puppies learn to control their bowels and bladders, as well as teaches them how to be calm in an environment where they may feel anxious. During the entire Great Dane potty training process, use the crate to encourage your puppy to stay dry and clean.
5. Develop a Strong Feeding Routine During Great Dane Potty Training
In order for crate training to be successful, it is important to develop a strong feeding process. Stop giving your puppies food late at night. It is my belief that puppies should always have access to fresh, clean water all the time. If your puppy is having a particularly hard time potty training overnight during the Great Dane potty training time, you can safely withhold water after dinner. Feeding in a safe crate will help form a designated area from a young age for your Great Dane to eat and sleep.
6. Feed at Consistent times and In the Same Spot During Potty Training
Most puppies will learn to hold their bladder for several hours if they are fed at consistent times throughout the day. Although food is the main motivator for most puppies, treats can also be used to reinforce good behavior. When training your puppy, make sure to feed them in their crate so that they associate the crate with positive experiences.
By developing positive training routines with your Great Dane surrounding the crate and meal-times, your Great Dane puppy will begin the potty training process on the right foot.
House training your Great Dane will take patience, praise, and plenty of routine. Anytime you take your Dane out of the house, be sure to put them on a leash. This will help keep them from running off and getting lost, as well as allowing you to better control when they stop to potty.
When they do indeed relieve themselves outside, be sure to lavish them with praise. This positive reinforcement will help them remember that going potty outside is the right thing to do. At bedtime, take your Dane out for one last potty break. This will help reduce the chances of them having an accident in their sleep. With a little time and patience, your Great Dane will be successfully house trained in no time.
7. Explore on Leash to Build Potty Training with your Great Dane
House training your Great Dane will take patience, praise, and plenty of routine.
Outdoor exploration with your new puppy should be full of play, pets and adventure. By spending more time outside, your Great Dane puppy is at less risk for pee accidents to happen in the wrong place. The less your Great Dane puppy has accidents in the house, the better!
7. How to Use Exploration to Get Your Great Dane Potty Trained
Great Dane puppies are full of life and adventure. They want to see the world and experience the fun. Take your dane for a walk as often as you can. Sit and watch as other dogs or people walk by! This exploration process can help your pup examine the world through their own eyes.
Stop frequently so that your pup can take frequent breaks to pee as needed. You will find that the more excited you are with their success, the more excited they will be!
Outdoor Safety While You Train a Great Dane
Anytime you take your Dane out of the house, be sure to put them on a leash. This will help keep them from running off and getting lost, as well as allowing you to better control when they stop to potty. When they do indeed relieve themselves outside, be sure to lavish them with excitement. This positive reinforcement will help them remember that going potty outside is the right thing to do.
8. Bedtime Routines When Trying to Potty Train
At bedtime, take your Dane out for one last potty break. This will help reduce the chances of them having an accident in their sleep. It takes time and patience, but with a little persistence your Great Dane will be successfully potty trained in no time!
Train a great dane, training, other breeds, dogs, likewise, as a result
9. Play Time is a Part of Teaching Your Dane to Potty Train
Great Danes are some of the smartest dogs out there. They can be potty trained to go outside like other breeds, but some of them (like all other breeds) require a little more patience and perseverance.
Playing Indoors
Your puppy is going to love to play! Setting up baby gates in your house can prevent them from having an accident inside while they are playing. Over-stimulated dogs tend to have accidents, so remember to have breaks in their indoor play sessions before accidents happen.
Bringing home a new pet is one of the most exciting things. Pet owners need to remember that they are not the only ones excited! Your puppy is full of new scents, new sights and new places to explore. In the early days you may not want to introduce them to new dogs due to their vaccination schedule. But, you can still practice socialization with outdoor training methods that will help your dog.
Fun Tips and tricks for Training Your Dog Outside:
Off-Leash Sniffing: Take your dog to a park , or a nature reserve. There, you can let them off their leash to explore and sniff around. Stop frequently so that your pup can take frequent breaks to pee as needed.
People-Watching: Sit in a parking lot with your puppy, and wait for people to walk by. Be sure to not allow people to pet or dote on your puppy as this will encourage overstimulation. It is best to ‘people watch’. This behavior teaches pups that they can be in the chaos but not apart of it.
Scavenger Hunts: Throw some kibble in the grass and let your puppy’s nose do the rest! You will soon have a good girl or a good boy who loves to search through the grass to find their yummy snacks.
Basic Commands: Practice basic commands with your puppy. Use the same language, voice commands or hand signals each time you’d like them to take care of business, always putting an emphasis on the positive!
10. Remember that Your Great Dane is still a Puppy Learning to Potty Train
When socializing with other dogs, remember that Great Danes are still awkward puppies. Even though they might look fully grown, they may not want to play too roughly just yet. As a result, it’s important to be patient and give your great dane time to warm up to other dogs. Once they get used to playing, they’ll have a blast – and you’ll be glad you took the time to properly socialize them.
11. Take Time Outs When Accidents Happen
Pets are a great addition to any family. They provide companionship, love, and endless hours of entertainment. But along with all the joy that comes with owning a pet, there is also the responsibility of potty training. For many pet owners, this process can be daunting and frustrating. But with a little patience and persistence, most pets can be successfully trained.
Use a crate for safe, healthy time outs with your puppy. Check out our list of favorites here.
Great Danes are no exception. Though they are large dogs, they can be successfully potty trained with the right approach. Here are some tips surrounding time-outs:
Accidents Happen
Accidents are going to happen with any dog. Your puppy is certainly no exception! In fact, it is best to begin potty training as soon as your dog arrives home. Initially, your dog will need to go out frequently – perhaps every hour or so. When you start potty training, it may be that your dog relieves itself in the wrong spot quite often. Acknowledging that house training is hard is an important part in the puppy process.
Taking Breaks When Accidents Happen
Even though you work to consistently train your Great Dane to pee outside, they will still pee inside of the house. When your dog has an accident, utilize the crate and sit them on their bed. Taking breaks is important. In fact, this shows your Great Dane that going potty inside is not okay, and they may lose out on play time if it happens again. Although it is hard to train a Great Dane, we know that this tip will help!
12. Mental Stimulation Matters
Mental stimulation is just as important as exercise when it comes to potty training your Great Dane.
You can provide mental stimulation through puzzles, brain games and other activities.
Puzzle Feeders
Currently, there are a number of different puzzle feeders on the market that are specifically designed for dogs. These games help to keep your dog’s mind active and engaged, which can be helpful in preventing accidents.
What Does Mental Stimulation Have to do with Potty Training?
In other words, by providing your dog with mental stimulation, you can help to reduce the chances of accidents happening in your home. Games that require your dog to use their nose or search for hidden treats are a great way to provide mental enrichment. There are a number of different options available, so take some time to explore what is currently on the market.
In Conclusion
There you have it – some tips for successfully potty training your Great Dane puppy. With a little patience and perseverance, you can have a house-trained dog in no time! Be sure to provide your pup with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, as well as consistent potty training, and they will soon be taking care of business like a pro.
Remember that taking your Great Dane out frequently is essential when potty training – even if they have already gone outside recently. When you see your dog begin to sniff around or circle, it’s time to head outdoors! And finally, be positive and patient when training your pup – accidents are bound to happen, but with time and effort, your Great Dane can be successfully potty trained.
Thank you for reading! We hope that you found this information helpful and informative. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. And be sure to check back soon for more tips on training your beloved Great Dane!
Great Dane nail clippers can be hard to find. Whether you have a Great Dane or another breed of dog, keeping their nails trimmed is an important part of their grooming. Not only does it keep them looking nice, but it also helps to prevent injuries and keeps their nails from getting too long. If you’re looking for the best nail clippers for your Great Dane, look no further! In this blog post, we will recommend three different types of clippers that are perfect for large dogs.
How to Trim a Great Dane Puppy’s NailsGreat Dane Nail Trimming
Great Dane’s paws have very large dog nails which need regular nail trimming. A Great Dane’s nails are usually black, but can be lighter colored. The dewclaw is the fifth toe on a Great Dane’s paw.
This nail sometimes grow much faster than the other nails. It can be a difficult task to trim the dewclaw. However, if you avoid hitting the dog’s quick and make a clean cut, it will cause no discomfort at all.
Sometimes, Dewclaws get broken more easily than the other nails.
Many dogs nail care can be easier, since their paws are smaller than the Great Danes. Great Danes require regular nail clipping. A Great Danes nails will grow quickly and require trimming on a regular basis.
If you do not conduct regular trimming, the dog’s nails can become painful and it will be harder for them to avoid injury when running and playing. Also, you should work to get your Great Danes nails trimmed in a stress free way as often as possible so that they do not have a hard time when it is clipping time.
It is important to trim a Great Dane’s nails every two to three weeks, depending on how fast they grow. Clipping your Great Dane’s nails is not as difficult as it may seem. You just need the right tools and a little bit of practice. With the proper nail clippers, you can easily trim your Great Dane’s nails at home.
Large Breed Dog Nail Tips
Great Dane Nail Clippers are the same as a regular dog nail clipper, except they might be made for a large breed. Since Great Danes are a heavier breed, their nails are tougher and require a more powerful clipper.
If you have a Great Dane, they often require a different dog nail grinder. Some owners of big dogs have a hard time clipping their own dog’s nails. However, with a few tips we can help you eliminate all fear and work to trim your own large breed nails at home.
Nail clipping is something that many pet owners fear. Great Dane care is often more work since an uncomfortable dane does not often show good behavior. When using a nail file appropriate for Great Dane nails you can rest assured that your dog will not be experiencing pain.
Long nails are often harder to trim on dogs. The blood vessel in a dogs nails travel towards the tip of a dog’s nail. This is called the ‘quick’. When clipping, it is important to trim around the blood vessel. If appropriately trimming, your dog will get its nails clipped in a comfortable position with absolutely no pain.
What type of nail clippers are best for a Great Dane?
There are many types of nail clippers on the market. Let’s discuss some of the best nail clippers or best nail file for your Great Dane’s nails. When choosing a type of nail clipper, you should take into account the size and strength of your dog’s nails.
Great Dane’s have large, tough nails. Therefore, you will need a powerful clipper that can handle their nails. There are also alternative tools such as a nail grinder, scissor style clippers, the Dremel tool, and other clippers. We will discuss which Great Dane nail clippers and nail grinders we prefer. Then, you can make the best choice for your Great Dane.
We recommend a nail clipper with sharp edges to trim your dane. Clipping will become easier if your nail clipper will stay sharp while working around the dog nail.
One of our favorite Great Dane nail clippers is the Millers Forge Steel Pet Nail Clipper with a Safety Stop Bar. This grooming tool is an excellent nail clipper because it is able to surround the dog’s nail but also has the ability to trim without accidentally clipping the quick. We really like the safety stop on these nail clippers because then you don’t risk cutting the quick.
The next tool we will discuss is what we believe to be the best nail grinder for a Great Dane. We think the best nail grinder is the Dremel Paw Control Dog Nail Grinder. This grinder is very easy to use and has a powerful motor that can quickly grind down your dog’s nails. It also has a guard to protect your dog’s quick.
We really like this grinder because it is very easy to use and control. The pros of the Dremel is that you can have control over your dog’s paw and nail more easily. With clippers it can be easier to cut into the dane nails, but with a Dremel, you can more slowly and carefully grind away at the nails. With a large Great Dane, having a nail grinder can help owners feel more in control and less nervous.
Dremeling a dog’s nails is perfectly safe if you are using the proper tools and taking the necessary precautions. We recommend only using a Dremel on your Great Dane if you feel comfortable doing so.
Myth or Fact: My dog will file its own nails by going for frequent walks on pavement. Myth! Unfortunately, this is a myth. Going for walks on pavement will not help your dog’s nails to naturally file down. In fact, it can actually cause more damage and breakage to their nails. If you want to help your dog’s nails stay healthy, we recommend using a nail file or grinder specifically designed for dogs.
Is it okay to use a regular / power tool Dremel vs. the Dremel Paw Control Dog Nail Grinder?
Absolutely! Some dogs have extremely strong nails! For some dogs, a standard Great Dane nail clipper or scissor style clippers are just not powerful enough. The Dremel Paw Control is significantly less powerful than a standard Dremel Power Tool.
For those that might like to move as quickly as possible with the nail grooming process with their Great Dane, the standard Dremel Power Tool is a better option. Additionally, we have noticed that this tool is quieter than the Paw Control.
If your Great Dane is sensitive to noise, you will want to get the Dremel Power Tool and not the Paw Control. The power tool can be found on Amazon (linked here), or at any hardware shop or website such as Home Depot. Dremel on Home Depot Website, linked here.
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There are also some cons to using a Dremel on your dog’s nails. The biggest con is that it can be really loud. If your dog is scared of loud noises, then this might not be the best option for you. Another con is that it takes a little bit of practice to get used to using a Dremel.
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You don’t want to accidentally hurt your dog while you are trying to trim their nails. We recommend that you practice on a very low level first or get someone else to help you before using a Dremel on your dog’s nails.
If you have never trimmed your Great Dane’s nails before, we recommend that you have someone else help you or take your dog to a professional groomer. They will be able to trim your dog’s nails quickly and efficiently without hurting them.
However, it is great if pet parents clip their own dog’s nails. Great job working with your dogs!
Note: Here is a great website that speaks to the importance of cutting dogs nails as well as gives a tutorial using a Dremel Dog Nail Grinder: Big Dog Mom, How to Cut Big Dog Nails.
Great Dane’s require special care when it comes to their nails. With the right tools and some practice, you will be able to quickly and easily trim.
Can Dog Owners Trim their own Dogs nails?
The answer is YES! If you have the right tools, it is not difficult to trim your own dog’s nails. Start by getting your dog used to the idea of nail clipping. You can do this by gently touching their paws and nails so they get used to the sensation.
If your Great Dane is afraid of the nail clipper, you can try desensitizing them by letting them see and smell the clipper before you use it. Once your dog is comfortable with the idea of nail clipping, you can begin trimming their nails.
When trimming your Great Dane’s nails, it is important to avoid the quick. The quick is the blood vessel in the nail tips and if you accidentally clip it, it will be painful for your dog. To avoid the quick, you can use a nail grinder or Dremel tool to slowly grind down the nails instead of clipping them. This method takes longer but is less likely to cause pain.
If you do choose to clip your Great Dane’s nails, we recommend finding a pair of clippers or a dog nail grinder that your pet is most comfortable with. Since your dog is afraid of discomfort, make sure that you are extra careful not to clip the quick. Take your time, and if you’re not sure, ask a professional groomer or vet for help.
Steps to Trimming at Home
If you are eager to work with your Great Dane and file their nails at home, here are some steps to getting started.
Begin by finding a comfortable spot on the floor.
With your dane, make a choice as to whether you will use clippers or a grinder.
Get plenty of treats ready.
Start with just one paw, and slowly introduce your dog to the sensation of having their nails trimmed.
Use your Great Dane nail clipper or dog nail grinder and work to clip just one nail at a time!
Work up to trimming all of their nails in one session.
You may need to try out a different grooming tool one day than the next to see which one both you and your dog prefers.
Practice clipping using Great Dane nail clippers and see how your dog reacts. Then use a nail file to see if that seems better! If they don’t respond well to those tools, you can try different nail grinders. Every dog has a different tolerance to clippers vs. grinders, so be patient!
When you are done, give your dog lots of love and treats!
Regular nail trims are an important part of taking care of your Great Dane! So, whether you decide to go to a grooming salon for your Great Dane or file your dogs nails at home, make sure to keep up with this important grooming task.
What Happens if Your Dog’s Nails Bleed During Nail Trimming?
When it comes to nail clipping, there are a few things you should avoid. First of all, do not try to clip all of your dog’s nails in one sitting. This will only overwhelm them and make the experience more difficult. Over time, you can work up to trimming all of their nails in one session.
Secondly, make sure you avoid the quick. The quick is the blood vessel in the nail tips and if you accidentally clip it, it will be painful for your dog. If this happens, use a styptic pencil or cornstarch to stop the bleeding. Finally,
We recommend NOT using any Great Dane nail clipper that has sharp blades in order to avoid injury. If you accidentally touch your Great Dane on the ‘quick’, their sensitive dane nail may begin to bleed.
Do not panic!
You may think that your pet is incomplete and utter pain. But actually, this is not the case! Although a dog’s nail is very sensitive at the quick due to increased blood vessels, it is actually not as painful for their nails as we think. Many veterinarians actually state that hitting the quick bothers humans more than the dogs.
Products to Stop the Bleed
If your dog’s nail begins to bleed, there are a few things you can do to ease their pain (and bleeding).
First, use a styptic pencil or cornstarch to stop the bleeding. These are considered a binding agent and will help their bleeding stop.
Use treats on a regular basis if you find your Dane having any form of discomfort. Sit on the floor with your pet to help them have a positive experience with nail clipping. Most of all, know that dogs can pick up on your energy. If they sense that you are nervous, they will also be scared. Go into the experience with a stress free attitude and they will be less stressed.
To Wrap It Up
Trimming your Great Dane’s nails doesn’t have to be a difficult or painful task. Gaining the confidence to trim your Great Dane’s nails with either nail clippers or a grinder will take time, but it is important for the health and wellbeing of your pet. With a little bit of patience and practice, you will be able to trim your Great Dane’s nails like a pro in no time!
If you have any questions or concerns about trimming your Great Dane’s nails, please feel free to reach out to us!
