Category: Training

  • What is the best leash for Great Danes?

    What is the best leash for Great Danes?

    The Best Leash for Great Danes

    A proper leash for a Great Dane will be well-made, sturdy, and have a substantial solid metal clip on it. The last thing we want is for our giant breed dogs to get loose and run off because their leash breaks!

    Inexpensive nylon leashes with plastic clips can easily break, setting your dog free to run and cause havoc off-leash!

    Talk about embarrassing (hey, many of us have been there)!

    The Best Leashes for Walking a Great Dane

    Once your Great Dane has excellent walking skills and does not pull you around, lunge, or react, we recommend walking your Great Dane off-leash (with a positively-implemented E-Collar) and/or on a 6-8 foot leather leash connected to a flat or Herm Sprenger Prong collar.

    Leather wears well, is easy to clean, feels nice in your hand, and will often be more sturdy and well-made than an inexpensive nylon leash.

    PRO TIP: Buy a set of leather horse reins from the farm store and add a substantial clip to each one. If your Great Dane pulls, it’s so important to have peace of mind that your equipment is solid.

    When your Great Dane is trained to walk nicely and be 100% responsive to you while off-leash, the leash becomes nothing more than an extra item your dog will wear on walks only because it has to be there for leash laws.

    While off-leash obedience training is the gold standard, some Great Dane dogs require more control than others.

    For dogs that aren’t there yet or that may be dangerous and require additional control, a sturdy leash is a must!

    Best leashes for Great Danes

    The best leash for training sessions

    We recommend a sturdy 4-8 foot leather leash for training sessions.

    The ideal collar for a Great Dane is either a martingale or a prong collar. Flat collars are only for dogs that do not pull ahead or lunge.

    Headcollars (also known as ‘Gentle Leaders’ or ‘Halti’) often work ‘quickly’ but many dogs find them aversive and frustrating. We don’t recommend them for a number of reasons.

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    The Best Training Collars for Great Danes

    A Herm Sprenger prong collar is our tool of choice for teaching Great Dane dogs how to politely walk on a leash. While a prong collar may look like a torture device, it is actually one of the most gentle and clear ways to communicate with our gentle giants!

    Prong collars work by applying gentle, even pressure to the neck when the dog pulls ahead or lunges. A good training program will utilize positive reinforcement to teach the dog that this pressure is something they can control and easily get rid of by turning back towards you as the handler.

    This ability to control the sensation from the collar is very rewarding and empowering to dogs!

    This pressure is a deliberate and clear yes and no communication that can result in an incredible transformation for dogs that lunge, pull or struggle to focus around little distractions.

    A properly used, high-quality prong collar such as the Herm Sprenger will not pop a balloon.

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    A Herm Sprenger Prong Collar – see it on Amazon

    We do not recommend using any kind of training collar on a puppy, however.

    Prior to 5-6 months of age, a lot of time should be spent first teaching the correct position (heel) and loose leash skills by utilizing positive reinforcement in low-distraction areas. This will set your pup up for success and ensure that your training efforts utilizing a prong collar on your more mature dog are much more effective!

    Basically put, if you wait until your Great Dane puppy is pulling before you start leash training, you’re making a huge mistake.

    The best leash for recall training

    Training recall should be fun! If you want your Great Dane to consistently come when called, you need to first prevent your Great Dane from running away (and practicing that behavior on repeat).

    A long line leash is a must for recall training (whether you are using an E-Collar or not!).

    We recommend choosing a 15-30 foot Biothane leash (our favorite is below).

    Biothane is waterproof, stink-proof, and easy to handle. Plus it comes in super fun colors! Your Biothane leash can last a lifetime, too.

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    Biothane Long Leash on Amazon



    When teaching your Great Dane to come when called, use lots of positive reinforcement. Start small, just a few steps away, and say ‘COME!’. As soon as your pup starts towards you, say YES and then deliver treats, praise, play, or fun.

    Gradually add distance, distractions, and duration. Make sure to occasionally grab the collar, reward, and release so that your pup doesn’t accidentally learn that coming to you and having the collar grabbed always means the fun is over.

    Never scold your dog for ignoring your recall command. That’s the fast track to making sure that your pup NEVER comes when called.

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    Slip leads for safety

    We believe all Great Dane parents should keep a few inexpensive slip leads on hand. Slip leads are escape-proof and fantastic for new rescue dogs, puppies, dangerous dogs and when you need a leash and collar combo QUICK!

    Keep one for each dog in your home in your coat closet; this way you’ll always have access to something in case of fire or otherwise. Keep some in your car, too.

    The best retractable leash for a Great Dane

    Retractable leashes are dangerous and offer very little control. Most are rated only for dogs under 100lbs, and if your Dane reaches the end and warps the cord around somebody or something, they can cause serious damage to themselves and others.

    The only appropriate time to implement a retractable leash for a Dane is on smaller, well-trained Danes that have excellent recall and obedience skills both off and on leash.

    A fancy retractable leash with a high weight limit can be helpful for handlers that cannot physically manipulate a proper long leash.

    This may be helpful for providing some dogs additional freedom to move and explore, however, we don’t recommend it for walking in high-distraction areas or with Danes that are reactive in any way.

    As always, we believe that modern positive E-Collar training is much safer and more humane than any kind of contraption that relies on physical restraint.

    The truth is that a properly E-Collar-trained dog of any size can safely be on a retractable leash (to satisfy leash laws), too.

    All about the wireless training leash

    Did you know that modern technology has brought us the wireless leash?

    With modern E-Collar training, your dog can be reliably off-leash in just weeks.

    This is very different than traditional shock collar training, as it uses a very gentle muscle stimulation (not zaps and punishment) to communicate in a positive and humane way.

    We use and recommend E-Collar Technologies Mini Educator or Easy Educator collars for off-leash training mature (5+ months) puppies and adult Great Danes.

    By freeing our dogs of physical restraints, we greatly reduce the chance of orthopedic damage, anxiety, and frustration that can come from tension on a no-pull harness, collar, Gentle Leader, or long leash.

    E-Collar trained dogs come when called, can walk politely next to us (even on a leash), and are amazingly responsive-without harsh physical communications.

    Thankfully, a wireless E-Collar can provide you with peace of mind that your dog will, with training, come when called, turn away from distractions, stop before running into traffic and return to your side in an automatic sit when asked.

    The Best Harnesses for Great Danes

    There are times when you need to physically restrain your dog and make sure that your dog’s neck or shoulders aren’t injured by lunging or pulling. This can be necessary for dogs who have Wobblers disease, orthopedic issues, or who are genetically predisposed to those conditions.

    For this reason, something ergonomic will be the BEST choice when paired with lots of positive training. It’s especially important to train your Great Dane not to pull, even for short distances, if they are struggling with orthopedic issues.

    Choose one with a Y-front, as below:

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    The Ruffwear Front Range Harness, a less obstructive and more comfortable harness option for dogs that do not pull.

    All about ‘no-pull’ and front-clip training tools

    We do not recommend the long-term use of ‘no-pull’ or ‘front-clip’ harnesses for giant breed dogs. These tools are obstructive to the shoulders and chest and can cause frustration, pain or even joint damage.

    An obstructive harness labeled as a training device for loose-leash walking is built to use pressure, punishment, gait alteration, and behavior suppression and teach your dog not to lunge ahead.

    Of course, this can help you accomplish your ‘no-pulling’ goals, but restricting natural movement and gait is not the most humane or ethical choice.

    When your dog pulls into the straps, it adds additional pressure to the chest and shoulders. If the pressure is not immediately released, it then forces them to the side so they cannot continue moving forward.

    This is hard on joints, and can be damaging to dogs that are predisposed to structural problems (including Wobblers, arthritis, and other joint problems). It is not very effective at the clear communication needed to form good leash skills, either.

    Somehow these have been marketed as a ‘positive’ training tool, however, don’t be fooled. Some dog trainers will tell you that it works like a ‘Thundershirt’ to calm anxious behavior and pulling.

    What they are really saying, but don’t want you to understand, is that the tool they recommend is physically restrictive and suppressive to behavior. We find this to be particularly alarming.

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    If you do use a restrictive ‘no-pull’ harness for Great Dane leash training, we recommend teaching your dog to respond immediately to the pressure on their chest and turn back to you for a treat and reward. Never leave it on your dog unattended in one, and don’t use it as a tie-out.

    Unfortunately, harnesses of most kinds tend to be pretty easy to slip out of as well, and that can be very dangerous for you and your dog, especially if your dog doesn’t have a rock-solid recall and off-leash obedience!

    Make sure it is properly fitted, and spend lots of time teaching and rewarding the desired behavior of walking next to you and checking in. Work on recall and obedience as well, every day to establish good skills!

    Training Great Danes to walk nicely in a harness

    Leash training in a harness is not impossible, but can also require a restrictive long-haul approach (to avoid pulling) that can be frustrating to both you and your dog.

    An ergonomic (non-obstructive) harness will give your Great Dane leverage to lunge, pull, and take YOU for a walk. That, as you know, is incredibly dangerous for them and for you!

    If you do plan to stick with a harness for loose-leash training, we recommend making sure that you put a lot of time into practicing obedience indoors and off-leash!

    Your dog cannot lunge and pull you to the ground if they have solid recall, focus, and engagement skills in other words.

    Practice makes perfect; many dog owners who are experiencing frustration with pulling on walks are simply being subjected to natural dog behavior from dogs that need a lot more training and guidance. It’s not stubbornness or dominance.

    Great Dane Puppy Leash Training

    It is important to start leash training your Great Dane puppy immediately. Don’t wait for puppy classes or pulling to start!

    Adult Great Dane dogs who pull, lunge, and act wild on a leash are dangerous; take advantage of the time you have for teaching and reinforcing good behavior and correct leash skills while your puppy is still small. Even if your puppy seems to be ‘calm’ and easy, it’s important to start young!

    Some people proudly think that their small, sweet Great Dane puppy is “perfect and doesn’t pull on a leash“, so they don’t put the time into leash training.

    These puppies grow into large dogs and learn pretty quickly (usually around 5-6 months) that they can throw their weight around (especially in a harness)!

    Don’t be fooled. Your Great Dane puppy may not pull yet, but if you don’t put some time into good walking and engagement skills now, that day is coming.

    Good loose-leash training actually starts off-leash! If your Great Dane puppy can walk next to you with no leash at all, they will have a solid foundation for on-leash walking skills.

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    Positive Reinforcement Great Dane puppy Training

    Great Dane puppies should always be taught how to walk on a leash using positive reinforcement! Treats, praise, play, and attention, for example, can be used to reward your pup for behaviors that you like.

    The more that you reward your dog, the more likely it is that you see your Great Dane puppy repeat behavior that you like to see such as sit, leave it, down, off, and heel.

    Practice these skills daily in short 2-3 minute training sessions indoors and in your yard. This habit will help you create an amazing, obedient, calm, and friendly adult Great Dane!

    Leash training for Great Danes

    Once your Great Dane puppy has spent time around your house learning how to walk on a leash, it’s time to go outdoors and leash train around distractions! In many ways, this may feel like you are stepping backward, but it’s important to start small.

    Keep a short leash by neatly bundling the excess into your right hand. Keeping your dog on the left, take a step forward. Mark with a YES and offer a reward.

    You may find that your pet will pull harder when outdoors: for these dogs, the environment is just too exciting, or maybe causes a lot of anxiety.

    Either way, stop walking and hold your ground. Wait for your pup to release the pressure from pulling you forward. Mark with a yes and then turn and walk in the opposite direction so that your dog follows you.

    As always, mark with a YES and a reward when they come to your side and engage with you! Walk ahead with purpose and repeat this process until your dog is very good at releasing tension instead of adding it.

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  • A Story of Balanced Dog Training Success With My 2 Great Danes

    A Story of Balanced Dog Training Success With My 2 Great Danes

    When I first got my Great Danes (yes- 2 Great Dane puppies at ONCE- WHAT was I thinking?) I was SO excited to start finding dog trainers, learn different methods and ‘quickly’ have the most perfectly trained dog.

    Boy, was I wrong! Getting dogs trained is not an overnight venture.

    Dogs need balance in their lives, just like people do. Too much discipline and your dog will become resentful and disobedient. Too little and they will take advantage of you and become unmanageable. That’s why it’s important to follow a balanced dog training program that will keep your Great Dane happy, obedient, and well-adjusted.

    Anyways, what’s more is as I worked with my Great Danes, I realized that not only does my dog take time to learn, but SO DID I. I realized I had no idea what training methods really fit my style and even what a well behaved dog SHOULD look like.

    That is when I began my journey of finding the training method that worked best for my dogs and our mission: solving problem behaviors and building trust while at the same time building a bond between them and me.

    FIRST, LETS DEFINE BALANCED TRAINING

    What is balanced training?

    Balanced Dog Training

    Balanced training is a dog training method that uses both negative (-) reinforcement and positive (+) reinforcement training.

    In short: This type of training looks at the whole picture- not just one side.

    For example, if your dog is jumping on you when you come home from work, you could say “no” and put your knee up to block their jump (negative), or you could ignore the jump and instead, wait for your dog to sit and then give them a treat (positive). Some of our favorite treats here:

    You could also do a combination of both- say “no” and push their butt down to help stop jumping, and proceed to give them a treat once their butt hits the ground.

    This method is called balanced because you are using BOTH negative AND positive reinforcement training- not just one.

    MY FIRST AND LAST EXPERIENCE WITH PHYSICAL CORRECTION

    Raising a dog is hard. Raising a puppy can be even harder. Ever heard of the puppy blues? There’s an actual WORD for the depression that one might feel with the sheer amount of work and fatigue a new dog can cause them.

    When my puppy came home, I had an entire training plan, I knew what I wanted my dog’s behavior to look like, I had watched the clicker training videos on youtube, and I had done my research.

    But what I didn’t factor in was how TIRED I would be.

    I quickly learned that no amount of research or videos could have prepared me for the real thing.

    TRAINING DOGS REQUIRES YOU TO RESORT ON HABIT, NOT ‘PLANS’

    In those first few weeks, I made a lot of mistakes. But- to be fair, she did too…

    One being the time she RAN and I mean RAN out the front door when she saw our nice neighbor and their new baby walking past with a stroller.

    I gasped, I panicked, I turned into the worlds WORST dog trainer.

    I started running after her- screaming “NO! NOOOO!” as if that would somehow stop a speeding bullet.

    And what did my puppy do? She thought it was a game and RAN FASTER. So there I was- running down the street like a maniac, screaming at the top of my lungs- embarrassing myself and my poor puppy.

    When I finally caught up to her, I was so out of breath and angry that I grabbed her by the scruff of the neck, shoved her in the house, and slammed the door.

    I was relying on plans, rather than having built strong habits to fall back on in the midst of a frustrating moment.

    DOGS NEED CLEAR COMMUNICATION AND CONSISTENCY

    My lesson books told me I was a force free trainer, but my HABIT told me I was a big meanie who used leash jerks, terrible body language, and even ‘mean verbal tone’ to my dog.

    Great Dane Puppy Biting

    She was SO confused!

    And I was devastated. How could I have been SO mean and strayed so far from the way I wanted to treat unwanted behavior?

    I knew I wanted and needed to be better for my dog. I also knew she would be acting out again- and probably soon- so I needed to know exactly how to act when she did.

    PURELY POSITIVE TRAINING WAS JUST NOT RIGHT FOR ME

    That night I sat with my dog, thinking about the immense leash pressure (sigh) and the lack of effective communication I had granted my dog when she made a mistake.

    Balanced dog training

    That is when it hit me- no amount of “science based” verbal praise was going to get her back to me when all 45 lbs of her puppy energy was running off towards something WAY more exciting than myself- should it be a baby carriage, other dogs, or a squirrel.

    ‘What in the heck am I supposed to do when I can’t control my dog? And how can I get to a place that my dog understands me?’

    MY ROAD TO FINDING BALANCED TRAINING

    Que the mad google research for dog trainers. We’ve all been there.

    The midnight quest to solving life’s problems, one search at a time.

    ‘Balanced Trainers’, ‘Balanced Dog Trainers Near Me’, the results started flooding in.

    I finally found an article that talked about the importance of BOTH positive and negative reinforcement in training.

    It made SO much sense!

    How could I have been so naive to think that one or the other would be enough?

    Dogs are living, breathing creatures with feelings, just like us. They need both- just like we do.

    Finding a trainer who could show me how to properly use both positive AND negative reinforcement was my next task.

    I was sold on the satisfying and bonding behavior modification that could be accomplished by positive punishment (the addition of an unpleasant consequence) and positive reinforcement (the addition of a pleasant consequence).

    I was intrigued by the concept of completing training exercises with both positive motivation for successful new behaviors, and discipline for any unwanted animal behavior (negative punishment).

    Yup- I bought the cute planner at Target, I memorized the four quadrants, and I knew that this was the route for me.

    WHAT ARE THE FOUR QUADRANTS?

    The four quadrants of operant conditioning are:

    1. Positive reinforcement
    2. Negative reinforcement
    3. Positive punishment
    4. Negative punishment

    I’ll go more in depth with each one below!

    POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT (+R)

    This is when you offer the dog a reward for completing a desired behavior.

    The reward can be a treat, toy, a clicker or verbal praise. The most important part is that the dog finds the reward valuable.

    Some dogs will work for food, while others prefer to play with a toy or receive petting and scratches.

    You’ll need to experiment to see what type of reinforcement works best for your dog.

    When used BY ITSELF, reward based techniques can actually be ineffective and put your dog at a huge disadvantage, in my opinion.

    NEGATIVE REINFORCEMENT (-R)

    This is when you remove an unpleasant condition after the dog completes a desired behavior.

    For example, if your dog doesn’t like to be restrained on a leash, you can immediately release him from the restraint (leash, collar, or harness) as soon as he sits calmly.

    The dog learns that the desired behavior (sitting calmly) will result in the removal of the unpleasant condition (being restrained), so he is more likely to repeat the behavior in the future.

    POSITIVE PUNISHMENT (+P)

    This is when you add an unpleasant consequence after the dog completes an undesired behavior.

    For example, if your dog jumps on you when you come home from work, you can immediately turn your back and ignore him until he calms down.

    With +P, dogs learn that the undesired behavior (jumping on you) will result in the addition of an unpleasant condition (being ignored), so he is less likely to repeat the behavior in the future.

    NEGATIVE PUNISHMENT (-P)

    This is when you remove a pleasant condition after the dog completes an undesired behavior.

    For example, if your dog jumps on you when you come home from work, you can immediately put him in his crate or kennel.

    With -P, dogs learn that the undesired behavior (jumping on you) will result in the removal of a pleasant condition (being out of his crate), so he is less likely to repeat the behavior in the future.

    WHICH ONE SHOULD I USE?

    The thing is, you’re going to use ALL four sections of the operant conditioning quadrant when you are a balanced trainer.

    Balanced training requires dog owners to be well versed in each section so that they can make the best decisions for their individual dog’s needs.

    I’ll admit, at first I was a little discouraged. It felt like a lot to learn and keep track of! But I’m telling you, it is SO worth it.

    Not only will your dog be a better dog, but overall, you will notice a change in yourself.

    You’ll be more patient, more consistent, and better equipped to handle any dog training challenge that comes your way.

    So how do you beging working on balanced training? Check out the steps below!

    IDENTIFY NONNEGOTIABLE BEHAVIOR ISSUES AND DEVELOP HABITS

    Every Great Dane is going to have their vice.

    My pups have shown me it all.

    Leash pulling, eating things, counter surfing, destroying furniture, separation anxiety, the list goes on.

    The first step is identifying which behaviors are nonnegotiable for you and your family.

    For example, if you live in an apartment and can’t have a dog that barks excessively, then barking would be a nonnegotiable behavior for you.

    Canine behavior is complex. Living in a dog world, especially when you are new to training dogs, is NOT easy. Behavioral issues are GOING to pop up. That, I can assure you.

    Grab your Target planner and decide on your house rules. You’re going to need them.

    LOOK UP BALANCED TRAINERS IN YOUR AREA

    Finding dog trainers is never easy. Every human has their own training methods, even amidst balanced dog training methods.

    But, choosing the wrong dog trainer who uses the wrong training methods can be a lethal decision.

    RUN FROM ANY TRAINING ENVIRONMENT THAT USES ‘ALPHA’ TECHNIQUES

    I’m sure you’ve seen the movies. The dog trainer comes to the house, roughs up the dog a bit, and then everything is fixed!

    The dog magically becomes this well-behaved, obedient creature that follows every command to a T.

    If you want a happy and healthy dog, find another trainer.

    Balanced dog training is NOT being an ‘alpha‘, being dominant, performing knee-chokes, or any of that other cruel baloney.

    MY TRAINER USES PHYSICAL CORRECTIONS IN THEIR TRAINING METHODS

    There is a place for balanced trainers who know how to correctly use force-free techniques in the dog training industry and RIGHTLY SO!

    Physical corrections, when used appropriately, should never actually physically hurt your dog.

    A physical correction is meant to startle or surprise your dog so that they can break their focus on the undesired behavior and refocus on you.

    For example, if my dog is about to bolt out the door, I might give him a quick leash pop so that he knows to pay attention to me instead of bolting out (ultimately potentially saving its life from running away or entering a dangerous road).

    Balanced Dog Training

    E COLLARS AND BALANCED TRAINING METHODS

    Another example of a correction used ethically during training is the use of an e collar. E collars, when used ethically and appropriately, are one of the most humane and effective dog training tools on the market.

    E collars can be used for a variety of things, such as recall training, boundary training, and more.

    If you are interested in learning more about e collar training, I suggest checking out some of my other blog posts or contacting a local balanced trainer in your area.

    WHAT IS POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT?

    Now that we’ve talked about corrections, let’s move on to positive reinforcement.

    Positive reinforcement is defined as any reinforcer that increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated.

    In other words, when your dog does something you like, you ‘reinforce’ that behavior by giving them something they find reinforcing in return.

    The most common form of positive reinforcement is food.

    Other forms of positive reinforcement include verbal praise, petting, and play.

    WHEN SHOULD I USE POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT?

    Positive reinforcement should be used frequently to shape and mold desired behaviors.

    It should also be used to maintain behaviors such as sitting, lying down, coming when called, and more.

    SHOULD I GET A POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT TRAINER?

    If you find a trainer who ONLY uses positive reinforcement, it is our belief that you will not accomplish what you so desire.

    Many dog owners spend hundreds and even thousands of dollars on a positive trainer, only to find their dog relying on dozens of treats to perform simple requests.

    When used in correspondence with humane corrective and communicative tools, positive reinforcement is absolutely a necessity for every dog.

    GREAT DANE DOG

    TOOLS TO CHOOSE FROM TO TRAIN A BALANCED DOG

    PRONG COLLAR

    A prong collar is a type of collar that has metal prongs that point inwards, towards the dog’s neck.

    Prong collars should be fitted by experienced trainers who know how to correctly fit and use them.

    When fitted correctly, prong collars will not even pop a balloon!

    When fitted incorrectly and used to train dogs, a prong collar can cause serious injury.

    E COLLAR

    An e collar, also known as an electronic collar or remote training collar, is a type of collar that delivers a low level electrical stimulation to the dog wearing it.

    E-collars are most commonly used for recall training and boundary training, but can be used for a variety of other things as well.

    E-collar training is one of the most ethical forms of training for dogs and allows owners to communicate effectively with their dogs.

    CHOKE COLLARS AND SLIP LEADS

    A choke collar, also known as a slip lead, is a type of collar that tightens around the dog’s neck when they pull.

    A slip lead is a primary example of applying something negative when dogs demonstrate negative behavior. The slip lead around their neck will tighten and become uncomfortable when they pull, which will teach them not to pull on the leash.

    ELECTRIC SHOCK COLLAR

    Please do NOT use shock collars on your dogs.

    Shock collars and dog training should not be associated in the same sentence.

    Cheap shock devices off of amazon are inhumane and will cause your dog more harm than good such as contact burns, sporadic and confusing shocks, and a lack of communication or understanding of why they are being shocked in the first place.

    There is a huge difference between a shock collar and a stim (e collar).

    IS USING TOOLS ON DOGS CRUEL OR MEAN?

    Absolutely not! I found that once I began my research based training, filled with both treats and communication, my Great Danes finally UNDERSTOOD what I was asking them to do.

    They can play, run, spend time with other animals, live like they are meant to. They can be off leash and on leash, in the house and out of the house, with children and without children.

    They are finally able to be a part of this world in a way that didn’t involve stress or punishment, but instead pure understanding.

    Dog training is not about being mean or forceful, it’s about showing your dog what you want them to do and then using body language and physical touch to help get them there!

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    Dogs are not born knowing how to “sit” or “stay”, we teach them these things through patience, love, and most importantly- communication.

    GETTING STARTED ON YOUR DOG TRAINING JOURNEY

    It wasn’t long ago that I was frantically doing the google searches, looking for absolutely anything that could help my dog.

    I had tried everything from traditional obedience classes to hiring a personal trainer, and while both of those things helped in their own way, I still wasn’t getting the results I wanted.

    I felt like I was stuck in this never-ending cycle of my dog doing something wrong, me getting frustrated, and then both of us giving up.

    I knew there had to be a better way, and that’s when I found balanced dog training.

    If you are on your journey to finding a better way of training dogs, I recommend seeing if balanced work is right for you!

    Thinking about getting a Great Dane? Here’s how to find a reputable breeder.

    READ MORE:

    Find a Great Dane Rescue

    Is My Great Dane Too Skinny? 5 Things You NEED to Know!

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    JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

    Do you like modern positive+balanced off-leash dog training, science-based information, life with Danes, educated ownership and chatting with other like-minded people?

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  • Excited Puppy Peeing – What to do when your Great Dane Pees!

    Excited Puppy Peeing – What to do when your Great Dane Pees!

    Excited puppy peeing is a common, fixable problem that happens when a Great Dane puppy is nervous or excited.

    If your Great Dane puppy peeing and you are looking to stop submissive urination, we’re sharing some tips and ideas below!

    A confident dog comes from good training and socialization. This means addressing puppy submissive urination correctly so you can get rid of this unwanted behavior and enjoy your new dog!

    Excited Puppy Peeing & Great Danes

    What is submissive urination?

    Submissive urination episodes in Great Dane puppies happen when they are anxious, nervous, scared, or excited.

    You may have noticed that your puppy will pee on the floor right in front of you, for no apparent reason as if they cannot control themselves.

    Some people call this ‘submissive urination’ because they believe it’s a dog being ‘submissive’ to you as the handler. To be fair, submissive peeing is often seen in submissive dogs: these are dogs that are naturally more inclined to follow than they are to lead.

    You may notice your Dane puppy dog urinates submissively when you make direct eye contact or assume a dominant position. Doing so can be very intimidating to dogs, especially puppies that are fearful or don’t know yet if they can trust you.

    Your body language and response to your puppy dog can actually have a lot to do with submissive urination and even separation anxiety!

    Submissive urination also happens when puppies (or adults) are excited. Their immature bladder cannot hold the pee as they jump, wiggle, and bounce around the room.

    Most Great Dane puppies outgrow inappropriate urination by the time they are fully and reliably house trained. Most dogs mature out of this behavior, so it’s important to stay calm and be patient.

    Submissive urination has nothing to do with dominance, stubbornness, or spite! Toss those old dog training ideas out the door, they are irrelevant.

    Excited puppy peeing in Great Danes

    Is submissive urination a medical problem?

    Submissive or excitement urination is not usually the result of medical reasons, however, it’s helpful to take your dog to the veterinarian if you are concerned.

    For example, a urinary tract infection can cause a dog to pee often and lose all of the work you put into positive reinforcement potty training. This condition must be treated by a veterinarian; your pet’s health and comfort matter and your vet can offer the best course of treatment for your dog.

    Urinary incontinence may also contribute; puppy bladders are immature and often just need time to develop. Dogs that urinate submissively often just need time to mature and grow up both physically and emotionally.

    An older or elderly dog may develop urinary incontinence (including complications related to kidney disease) as they age; in this case, a veterinarian can give the best advice.

    Why is my Great Dane puppy peeing when scared?

    Fear, anxiety, and stress can absolutely cause a Great Dane puppy to pee when scared.

    For these puppies, it’s important to assume a non threatening posture and act like the dog pee on the floor at your feet is no big deal.

    You may have a negative response and feel like becoming angry when your pet pees in front of you, but that is one of the worst things you can do.

    Stay calm, focus on non dominant postures and use management techniques to avoid the behavior popping up in the first place.

    It can be helpful to lower your body down to your dog’s level and use calming touch and voice to encourage relaxed behavior.

    If you notice submissive peeing when your pet is being greeted by other dogs or people, it is important for you to step in at that moment and advocate for your dog. This reaction is based on fear and insecurity.

    Some socially dominant dogs may hover over insecure dogs. This can cause fear that may make the problem worse. Take control of this situation and encourage your pet to be confident and walk away from dogs that are rude.

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    Great Dane puppy socialization and training

    Good socialization using positive reinforcement and lots of friendly exposure to novel things in the environment will go a long way to reduce inappropriate urination.

    We recommend following our guide, which outlines everything you need to know about socializing your Great Dane puppy so they are friendly, confident, and resilient.

    Young dogs have a small window of opportunity to work on this, and if you are reading this article chances are that time is now!

    Calm, confident Great Dane dogs are less likely to struggle with house training, submissive peeing, and separation anxiety.

    The American kennel club recommends socializing your puppy with the Canine Good Citizen test in mind as your goal. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/puppy-socialization/

    How do I fix excitement urination in dogs?

    The following tips can help you reduce inappropriate peeing so that your puppy dog is on the right track when it comes to their house training.

    • Use an enzymatic cleaner such as Skout’s Honor or Rocco & Roxie to clean up any big or little accident that has occurred. It’s important that no urine scent remains, especially if other dogs in your home have urine marking issues or might view that area as an appropriate spot to pee.
    • Don’t look your dog directly in the eyes or use a hovering, intimidating posture. Remember, intimidation can lead a timid or excited dog to submissively urinate out of fear.
    • Encourage calm behavior; amping your pup up can cause and worsen excitement peeing!
    • Use puppy pads in areas where you know your pup tends to do this. Common places include the front door or just outside of the crate. This simple tip will help with cleanup!

    Excitement peeing is not a potty training problem

    While it may be frustrating, excited peeing is not something that becomes a habit overnight. It’s primarily related to immaturity and emotions and not necessarily a potty training problem.

    Use simple commands that your dog knows to encourage calmness and confidence without peeing. Avoid direct eye contact unless you are teaching your dog the ‘look’ command, where your pup is rewarded for focusing on you.

    Puppy pee can stink up your house fast, so we recommend Rocco and Roxie urine odor remover to clean up messes. It smells amazing and works beautifully on dog pee.

    For more Great Dane potty training tips, read here!

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    Rescued dogs Submissive urination

    Rescued dogs and dogs from the humane society may need extra time here: for those dogs, we recommend revisiting potty training 101, just like you would do with a young dog. This is true even if you were told that your new rescue dog was potty trained!

    We also recommend a minimum 2-3 week low-key dog decompression period.

    This means keeping your new pet in a calm specially prepared area where they can feel safe, engaging them in fun active play and positive training that they enjoy, and developing a positive relationship based on trust.

    Training methods that make the problem worse

    It will be very hard to get rid of submissive or excitement urination if you use a lot of rough treatment or harsh, intimidating dog training methods.

    Do not scold your dog for peeing, even if the peeing continues as you try and usher them out the door.

    Rubbing a dog’s nose in their urine only teaches them to avoid peeing in front of you.

    Incorrectly and harshly trained dogs urinate when they know you aren’t watching, often behind furniture or in bedding where they can bury it.

    This is not spite nor is it stubbornness! It’s simply a symptom of what they are being taught.

    If you want your pup to confidently pee outside, on a leash, or when you watching it’s important that you don’t resort to punitive training.

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    What should I do when my dog pees in front of me?

    While it seems counter-intuitive, the best thing you can do in this situation is to ignore the pee.

    If your pet is fearful, reduce your presence and clean up the mess when your pup isn’t watching.

    Turn your body to the side and crouch if you need to. You may have to walk away and give your dog space. Fearful dogs need confidence building, basic obedience training, and lots of positive socialization.

    If your puppy is excited, it’s also very important that you are very calm! Teach your dog a gentle demeanor by being gentle and cool yourself.

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    Potty training for Great Danes

    Dogs pee whenever and wherever they want, especially without diligent management and training. For information on how to potty train your Great Dane dog, read below!

    Do adult dogs have submissive urination?

    Yes, adults can also have this problem! If you have an older dog that urinates in the wrong place or when scared, you may want to seek out the help of a dog trainer.

    Medical causes for peeing

    A pet dog with bladder stones, kidney problems, incontinence, infection or a UTI may urinate in your home.

    Medical causes should always be ruled out, especially for older dogs that use to be perfectly house trained. Being an educated pet owner means recognizing the difference between training problems and medical problems! Always talk to your veterinarian if you are unsure.

    When to see a veterinarian for excitement urination in dogs

    If your dog pees uncontrollably despite calming protocols, positive training, management, and confidence-building you must see your veterinarian.

    A pet dog that has separation anxiety and other signs of timid, anxious, or stressed behavior may have underlying health and temperament problems that can be addressed by professionals.

  • Great Dane Barking: What to Do When Your Dog Won’t Stop Making Noise

    Great Dane Barking: What to Do When Your Dog Won’t Stop Making Noise

    Great Dane barking can be a real problem. These dogs are known for their loud, deep bark, and sometimes it seems like they just won’t stop. If you’re dealing with this issue, don’t worry – you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll discuss the causes of loud or destructive behavior in your Great Dane and offer some tips on how to deal with it.

    Great Dane Barking: An Important Sign of Dog Breed Characteristics

    Great Danes are generally very mild, especially for such a large dog. But their bark can be quite deep and intimidating, which is so often associated in movies and TV shows as a sign of aggression.

    However, you do not want to jump to conclusions about the Great Dane temperament just because you are having a hard time stopping all of the ruckus and barking.

    In reality, your Great Dane is probably just trying to communicate with you. This is one of the most important things to remember when dealing with this issue.

    There are a few different things that your Great Dane could be attempting to say with its barking.

    Your Great Dane Dog Could Be Bored

    First, your dog may be bored. If you’ve noticed that your Dane only seems to bark when it’s left alone or doesn’t have anything else to do, this is likely the case. Dogs are social creatures, and they need stimulation and interaction just like we do. If you think your Dane might be bored, try adding some new toys to its toy box or taking it on more walks. You might also want to consider doggy daycare or hiring a dog walker if you’re gone for long periods during the day. Finally, long lasting bones are a great way to help your Great Dane have an activity throughout the day. Here are some of the best:

    Your Great Dane is Scared or Anxious

    Another possibility is that your Dane is trying to protect itself. This is especially common in Great Danes that have a history of anxiety or fear.

    It is most common amongst Great Dane owners to misunderstand their Great Dane’s fear for ‘honor’. Many people think that their big dog is trying to protect them as its owner.

    However, most of the time when you have large dogs who are expressing themselves with an abundance of reactive barking, it is not because they are scared for YOU… In fact, they are actually just scared for themselves.

    Working with a responsible and qualified trainer, practicing ethical and balanced training methods such as e collar training or crate training and providing enough exercise can be methods to help your Giant Breed conquer their anxiety.

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    The Best Crate for a Great Dane Puppy: Click Here

    Your Great Dane Simply Needs Boundaries

    Usually barking is a bigger issue with Great Dane puppies than an adult dog. However, at random times throughout the life of giant breed dogs, problems can pop up, including random barking.

    If you notice either your Great Dane pup or adult Great Danes are beginning to bark or react at random, and you have eliminated anxiety and boredom, you will want to work on reestablishing your Great Dane’s boundaries. You may want to examine whether you are making one of the 5 common mistakes that we see often with training Great Danes:

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    5 Common mistakes you may be making when Training Your Great Dane

    Consider the amount of exercise Great Danes should get in one day, invest in some good puzzle feeders to keep your Great Dane busy and motivated, purchase some quality treats to motivate your gentle giant, and begin working on creating those expectations. Here are a few of our favorite slow feeders to keep your pup engaged:

    And, here are a few of our favorite treat options:

    Do Health Problems Make Great Danes Aggressive?

    Do genetic health problems make Great Danes aggressive? That’s a loaded question, and one that scientists are still trying to answer. If you haven’t looked into common health issues that pop up with Great Danes, you may want to.

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    7 Health Battles that Great Danes Fight

    Click Here

    There is some evidence that certain health problems can increase aggression in dogs, but it’s still unclear exactly how much of a role those problems play.

    Hip Dysplasia / Joint Disease in Great Danes in Association with Barking, Growling, Lunging

    For example, hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that can cause joint pain and mobility problems. Some research has shown that dogs with hip dysplasia are more likely to be aggressive, but it’s mostly pointing to the fact that the aggression is caused by the pain rather than by actual health factors.

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    Arthritis in Great Danes? Read here.

    Chronic Pain in Great Danes and Barking

    Likewise, dogs who experience any form of chronic pain are more likely to act out aggressively. This is because they’re in a constant state of discomfort, and they may lash out as a way to protect themselves.

    A Dog’s Age in Correlation with Barking or Reactivity

    Different dog breeds age at different rates, and thus, have a different life span. Young dogs might be more tolerant to more things such as wrestling with other dogs or playing with young kids. Alternatively, a young, energetic Great Dane might be more eager to bark at a distraction walking outside of the window than an adult Great Dane.

    This could be for a variety of reasons, but the most likely scenario is that the adult Great Dane has already learned its lesson and doesn’t need to be reminded as often.

    For more information about the life span of a Great Dane, make sure to check this blog out:

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    How long do Great Danes live? Well, this sweetie named Harleigh is 10 and thriving! Read more here!

    Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout

    Reactivity in Senior Dogs

    Conversely, senior dogs are more prone to developing health problems that can cause pain and other issues. They may also be more sensitive to things like changes in their environment or routine.

    While there isn’t a definitive answer on whether or not health problems cause aggression, it’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s health and consult with your veterinarian if you notice any changes in behavior.

    Reputable Breeders and the Role They Play with Your Great Dane

    For anyone looking to adopt a Great Dane, finding a reputable breeder is essential.

    Reputable breeders know everything there is to know about the breed and can help you select the perfect dog based on your lifestyle and preferences.

    Why Do Responsible Great Dane Breeders Matter?

    Additionally, responsible breeders prioritize keeping the qualities that make Great Danes so unique intact, while also working hard to eliminate inherent health issues in their lines. In other words, they are not just breeding dogs to breed dogs and the Great Danes that you find with a high quality breeder are not the same in regards to health and longevity as you would find at a pet store.

    Finding a Healthier Dog For Your Family

    Whether you are looking for a show-quality Dane or just want an energetic companion to take hiking, a reputable and responsible breeder will be able to help you find the perfect match for your needs. No matter what you are looking for, everybody wants to find a family member to love on for the longest possible life span.

    Bad Breeder Red Flags

    We have an abundance of resources on breed characteristics to look for in a Great Dane as well as what makes a well rounded dog and what to avoid from a Great Dane breeder. Be sure to check out our breeder resources here:

    Great Dane Puppies and Obedience Training

    Great Dane puppies are known for their lovely, friendly personalities and their eagerness to please.

    Whether you’re training them yourself or sending them off to puppy obedience school, it’s important to start early and be consistent in your efforts. This will ensure that your dane puppy grows into a well behaved canine companion who is always eager to obey your commands.

    Training a Great Dane Puppy

    Training a Great Dane puppy is unique to other dog breeds. One of the best ways to train a gentle giant is by taking advantage of their curious and playful nature. Take advantage of your young dog’s age and work with them in a fun and positive way. As long as you stay patient and upbeat, dane puppies will learn quickly and enjoy the process along the way.

    Using Treats, Praise and Fun for Your Giant Breeds

    To keep things engaging and interesting, try breaking up your training sessions into short segments, making sure to use positive reinforcement techniques like treats or praise when they perform successfully. Here are some of our favorite treat sets for gentle giants:

    Remain Positive with Your Great Dane

    Additionally, you should always acknowledge Danes for good behavior, even if it’s just a simple head scratch or a loving pat on the back. After all, every dog wants to feel loved!

    Ethical Use of the E Collar

    We are advocates for Dane owners use of ethical e collar training with their Great Danes. If you are interested, here are some resources for e collar training with Great Dane dogs linked:

    Whether you’re working with an older dane or raising a brand new pup, keeping things fun and rewarding will help build confidence as well as obedience in your Great Dane puppy. Remember that getting through those early puppy stages can be tough, but by being patient and consistent with your dane, you’ll find success with your giant dog.

    A Great Danes Environment and How It Contributes to Temperament

    Great Danes are such large and powerful dogs that they require a very specific environment in order to thrive. At times, you may notice that a Great Dane might change the way they act depending on their environment.

    The Great Dane Dog Breed is Very Intuitive

    Large and giant breeds are so in tune with their surroundings that they, at times, can take on those stressors.

    This can, in fact, lead to barking or destructive behavior, which can be really hard on pet parents for such a large breed.

    What Does It Mean To Socialize a Great Dane?

    Great Danes need plenty of space to move around and stretch their long, muscular bodies, and they also need regular social interaction, which does not always mean interacting with other animals or other pets. (Socialization can mean a whole ton of fun things!) Check out our guide for ideas!

    The Difference Between a Young and Adult Great Dane Dog

    A young Great Dane should be allowed to play with other puppies when possible, but also socialized in other ways and introduced to a dog trainer. Younger Danes may be more playful, excitable, high energy dogs. An older dog will appreciate the company of fellow older Great Danes or mellow human companions. Mature dogs are usually calm and easygoing compared to other breeds. Many Great Danes also love young kids!

    Additionally, Great Dane dogs tend to have a gentle temperament throughout their lives, but this can be influenced by a number of factors such as moving, household family members, their own Great Dane owners, and other pets in the house.

    Home Factors for a Giant Dog

    Many giant dogs are quick to pick up on different energy in the house. Did somebody in the family recently become sick? If so, is your Great Dane’s behavior different? Is there a new baby in the house?

    All of these things can play into how a Great Dane perceives it’s environment and, as a result, how they might bark or act out.

    A great dane’s behavior is largely contingent on their environment and the people in it. That’s why it’s important to provide them with a stable, loving home where they can feel comfortable and secure.

    Do High Energy Great Danes Display Different Behavior Issues?

    Although a Great Dane has a gentle nature compared to other dogs, some Great Danes are extremely high energy. And, like all dogs, high energy Great Danes can sometimes display different behavior issues.

    At times, a bored dog is a destructive dog. If your Great Dane is displaying Separation Anxiety, boredom or stress might be the root cause.

    Tips to Burn Energy in Great Danes

    Here are some tips on how to keep your high energy Great Dane entertained:

    1. Make sure they have plenty of toys to play with and that they are rotated regularly so they don’t get bored. Here are some of our favorite toys:
    2. Use a puzzle feeder for your dog’s food so that they can eat and be mentally stimulated at the same time. We linked some of our favorites for your convenience.
    3. Work on training with a long leash. This way they can run and explore while you are still in control. Practice commands such as come, sit, and stay.
    4. Only allow socialization with other dogs who you know to be friendly dogs. Stay away from a dog park that you are not familiar with and work to increase their intuition to trust responsible ‘role model’ dogs or humans.
    5. If your Great Dane is extremely active, consider getting them involved in dog sports! The National Breed Club offers an abundance of dog sports for Great Danes which can be an amazing avenue of getting energy out in a positive way.

    A Fulfilled Great Dane is a Quieter and More Peaceful Great Dane

    By providing your high energy Great Dane with plenty of exercise and stimulating activities, you can help prevent destructive (and loud) behavior.

    The best way to combat behavior that you want to see less of is by ensuring that your dog gets plenty of exercise – both mental and physical. This will help burn off some of that extra energy and keep their minds occupied so they’re not as likely to bark or act out.

    How Can I Get My Great Dane to Stop Barking at Other Dogs?

    Most dog owners have experienced the embarrassment of their dog barking uncontrollably at another dog, small or large.

    But for those of us who own a Great Dane, it’s a whole other level of mortification. After all, these are not small dogs we’re talking about – they are giant beasts that can unintentionally intimidate other breeds (and sometimes even people).

    So what can you do to get your Great Dane to stop barking at other dogs? Here are a few tips: 

    One: Understanding Great Danes and Their Origin

    First, realize that this CAN be an instinctual behavior for Great Danes. They were bred as hunting dogs to hunt wild boar, and their job was to track down and flush out prey. As a result, they have a strong instinct to bark at anything that moves. 

    So, does that mean it is okay for my Great Dane to bark and react?

    Yes, Great Danes were bred originally to be a hunting dog breed, however that does not make it ‘right’ for your Great Dane to bark inside your house, in a fenced yard, or react to other dogs. Currently Great Danes are NOT being bred as ‘boar hound’ dogs, and should be redirected AWAY from barking unnecessarily.

    Two: Is it Personal When My Great Dane Won’t Stop Barking?

    No, don’t take it personally when your dog barks at another dog – this is just their natural response to many things: anxiety, feeling out of control, fear, boredom, etc.

    Your Response is YOUR Responsibility

    However, the way in which you respond to their behavior IS personal- as it is directly YOUR behavior! When you are working with your Great Dane on their behavior, stay calm and be consistent with your commands.

    This is a lot easier said than done when you’ve got a 80lb+ dog barking their head off, but try to remain as calm as possible. If you get upset or anxious, it will only make the situation worse.

    Three: Socializing Your Great Dane Does NOT Mean Making Them Interact With Other Dogs

    So many owners in the dog world think that socializing from a young age means to get their puppy around other dogs from different breeds, the same breed, kids and humans, visit dog parks, etc.

    That is true, SOMETIMES, only if the other dogs are trustworthy and good role models.

    However, most of the time, socialization occurs when you provide opportunities for your Great Dane to be IN the chaos, but not APART of the chaos. An example of this playing out in real life would be sitting on a bench at a busy parking lot, teaching your dog to give you eye contact and ignore people or dogs that walk by.

    This practice teaches Great Danes that life is busy and hectic, kids / humans / dogs exist but they are NOT all his for the taking and he does NOT need to bark or say hello to each and every one of them! Additionally, this important skill can teach your Great Dane that you, as the owner, are the top priority.

    Four: What to do When You See A Barking Trigger with Your Great Dane

    Fourth, if you see another dog, squirrel, or other distraction while out walking your Great Dane, make sure to keep them under control and calm.

    If you know that your dog is particularly distracted by the German Mastiff neighbor that lives down the road, completely avoid walking down that side of the street, and instead walk on the other side of the street.

    Great Danes are fast learners and can pick up on things quickly, but will need guidance. Avoiding things is NOT irresponsible.

    Lastly, create a relationship in which eye contact is valuable. Providing treats and pulling the treats to your eyes before giving them to your dog is going to show your dog that your eyes are worth something good and positive.

    When you see a squirrel, ask for eye contact and proceed past the distraction– making sure to reward your pup for positive results.

    In Conclusion

    In conclusion, the Great Dane dog breed is a fascinating one that has ups and downs throughout its entire life span. At times, they can create annoying habits like barking, but it can be fixed with responsible, balanced training and work. Do not get discouraged, and always seek professional help when you feel in over your head!

    If you have any questions or concerns about your Great Dane’s behavior, please reach out to a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for help or reach us on our Facebook page for support.

    READ MORE:

    The Top 5 Adorable Facts About Great Danes

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  • The Best Collars for Great Danes

    The Best Collars for Great Danes

    When it comes to choosing the best collars for Great Danes, we’ve got you covered! There are many different types of dog collars available for puppies or adults on the market today, from traditional buckle dog collars to harnesses, electric collars, and beyond.

    Best Collars for Great Danes

    So, which one should you choose?

    Do you have a puppy? Does your dog pull? Do you have problems with running away, fence-jumping, lunging, or escaping? We’re sharing tons of information, and more, below.

    Should a Great Dane Wear a Collar or a Harness?

    Best Collars for Great Danes

    A very small but notable study was done showing that harnesses, even the type that is meant to be ‘non-obstructive’ nearly always change the way that a dog moves and walks. This is something that has been theorized for many years.

    More studies are needed but as owners of giant breed dogs, we should all take note!

    While harnesses have their place, we believe that in general off-leash obedience and wide, flat collars are much better than harnesses for Great Dane’s orthopedic health and for Great Dane owners.

    Collars are safer, less restrictive, and more humane overall for most dogs, especially when paired with positive training that will ultimately give you full voice control of your dog.

    For more information on each type of harness that you might choose for a Great Dane, check the table of contents.

    Best collars for Great Danes
    A Pet Safe ‘Easy-Walk’ harness is not recommended: note the restrictive strap across the chest.

    Ruffwear Webmaster Harness for Great Danes

    In a ‘less-obstructive’ harness such as the Ruffwear Webmaster or Front Range, your dog will have a lot of leverage to pull you around. If you must use a harness for your Great Dane dog, this can be a good option for dogs that don’t pull or lunge.

    It’s also very helpful for dogs that may need a little assistance (it has a handle on the back), for example!

    With Great Danes, you should be relying on voice control, training, and obedience, not your physical ability to hold your dog back.

    If your Great Dane dog pulls, lunges, reacts or is less than obedient, harnesses will be dangerous for you and for others around you!

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    The Ruffwear Front Range Harness, a less obstructive and more comfortable harness option for dogs that do not pull.

    If you must use a harness (some dogs with Wobblers or orthopedic disease that require mobility support and/or that cannot be off-leash, for example) then we recommend the less obstructive Ruffwear harnesses mentioned above.

    The Y-front construction of the Webmaster or Front Range or Webmaster harness is less obstructive to movement than harnesses that are made to deter pulling behavior, and the Ruffwear harnesses are well-built! Plus they have a handle on the back if you need to support your Dane for any reason.

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    The Ruffwear Webmaster dog harness with a handle for mobility support

    The Basic Great Dane Collar

    This choice for a regular dog collar is up to your budget and aesthetic needs! There are many options available including collars made of leather, rope, nylon, and Biothane.

    A leather collar will be beautiful and there are many custom options available. We love a leather collar on a Great Dane! They look nice and last forever.

    A personalized collar with leather stamping or embossing, for example, is an awesome way to make sure your dog has identification without the constant jingling of tags.

    This type of ‘basic’ collar is great for everyday use, but still rugged enough to hold up to a Dane:

    Biothane Great Dane Dog Collars

    Biothane is nice option for people who have dogs that like to play in the mud or swim, as they are waterproof and easy to clean. We like Biothane dog collars because they also come in bright collars and can be customized when you shop for them at www.etsy.com!

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    Viper 1″ thick Biothane Collar, comes in a range of colors.

    Tactical Dog Collar

    Some Great Dane dog owners love the look and rugged construction of a tactical dog collar! These are usually wide, heavy, and made with sturdy hardware that is less likely to break if your dog were to lunge or pull.

    Many of them have handles, too and they typically come in camouflage colors such as taupe and green. We love and recommend this type of wide, heavy collar for large, full-grown adult Great Danes.

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    Tactical Dog Collar – See it on Amazon HERE
    Best Collars for Great Danes
    A puppy wearing a basic nylon collar. He will quickly outgrow this and someday, it will only fit around his nose!

    Great Dane Collar Safety

    We don’t recommend leaving collars on dogs unattended, especially if your Great Dane tries to escape their crate, destroy things, get into stuff or play rough with your other house dogs.

    Many Great Dane dogs have been hurt or killed by collars that were worn unattended.

    If you are worried about your Great Dane running away without a dog collar unattended, we recommend off-leash training, obedience training, a remote electric training collar (more on this below), management, and a microchip!

    What size collar does a Great Dane puppy need?

    Great Dane puppies do best with small or medium-sized inexpensive nylon dog collars.

    Blueberry Pet Collars on Amazon has a massive range of regular collar patterns and colors to choose from. An adjustable Great Dane collar with a range of several inches will last the longest as your puppy experiences explosive growth.

    Measure your Great Dane’s neck; most puppies fit into a size small or medium to start.

    Keep in mind that your Great Dane puppy is going to grow FAST and you’ll be needing to replace this soon enough, so save your money at this point!

    You’ll need your cash reserved for food, supplements, vet care, and regular training collars for your adult Great Dane!

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    Never leave your Great Dane puppy unattended in a dog collar, training collar, or martingale collar of any type.

    They can become trapped, chew it off and try to swallow it or get tangled up while attempting to escape or while playing with other dogs in the house.

    The best dog collars for Great Dane Puppies

    We recommend choosing a flat collar OR ergonomic harness for your puppy.

    Do not introduce any kind of prong-style collars, head collars, ‘no-pull’ harnesses or otherwise until your puppy has a good positive basic obedience foundation and lots of socialization.

    If your Great Dane puppy dog pulls, go back to basics! Leash training is 99% YES. Instead of punishing your Great Dane puppy for pulling, teach your puppy what you want them to do instead.

    How to leash train a Great Dane Puppy

    Use treats praise and fun games to reward your puppy for looking at you, walking next to you, and staying by your side around obstacles.

    These are easy to teach in boring places. As your leash training progresses, you might even work with a trainer to build on those skills around distractions such as other dogs.

    Use positive socialization methods and a longer leash to explore the world around you and encourage calm behavior.

    We recommend that all Great Dane puppies work towards their Canine Good Citizen title! For more information on leash training Great Danes, read our blog post here.

    37

    What are the Best Dog Collars for Great Danes that Pull?

    Many Great Danes learn quickly that they are bigger, stronger, and faster than you. They have a massive neck size, powerful chests, and shoulders and can really throw their weight around!

    We tend to accidentally encourage these dangerous behaviors by using a tense leash and getting frustrated or chasing and scolding our dogs.

    A Great Dane that pulls is a dangerous dog, even if they are friendly! For those dogs, a basic dog collar with a cheap leash attachment is unlikely to be enough.

    In the next section, we will cover the best Great Dane collars, the best shock collars, and the ideal dog training collars for Great Danes, so that you can make an informed and humane decision for your gentle giant!

    28

    Are no-pull harnesses good for Danes that pull?

    No-pull harnesses, also known as ‘Front Clip’ or ‘Easy-Walk’ harnesses are often seen as a positive and friendly alternative for dogs that pull, however, they are not good for Great Danes.

    These harnesses punish and attempt to reduce the pulling behavior by restricting natural movement and adding pressure to the chest, ribs, front, armpits, and shoulders.

    Many dogs will pull through this pressure anyways because the environment is still more rewarding than the damage they are doing to themselves.

    These are also easy to escape and will do little to deter pulling caused by fear, overstimulation, frustration, excitement or anxiety.

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    An Easy-Walk harness, similar to the 2 Hounds ‘Freedom No-Pull’. Notice the strap straight across the front of the chest.

    A front clip or ‘no-pull’ harness may or may not temper pulling behavior, but it will nearly always alter your dog’s natural gait and ability to freely and comfortably extend the front limbs.

    Types of Harnesses you should not use with a Great Dane Dog

    We never recommend the use of any kind of ‘no-pull’, front clip, or T-Strap harness for Great Danes!

    Why are no-pull harnesses bad for Great Danes?

    When worn, they keep your dog from moving naturally and don’t allow the front limbs to extend comfortably or fully, even when your Great Dane is not pulling!

    Somehow, these have been marketed as ‘positive’, ‘humane’ and ‘force-free’ however they are definitely not. Even if a harness like this is fit correctly, used with a double leash system or marketed as ‘gentle’, it’s still working by restricting movement.

    Great Danes are giant breed dogs with sensitive orthopedic needs. They need to be able to move naturally without having their shoulders restricted. At the same time, you as the owner needs to know that your Great Dane cannot and will not pull you down!

    If you regularly have your Great Dane wearing an Easy-Walk, Balance, Freedom, or a similar ‘no-pull’ harness, we recommend switching to a good training collar instead (more information below).

    Many dog parents who want to do the right thing for their dogs are surprised by this information, and that’s understandable!

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    A ‘Freedom’ no-pull harness.

    Is a Martingale Collar Good for Great Danes?

    A martingale collar is our top choice for walking Danes that don’t pull or lunge!

    Martingale collars are escape-proof and the wide fabric version will be gentle and non-obstructive on a Great Dane’s neck.

    Martingale collar pro tip: the collar should be made snug enough that if your dog were to pull into the collar or try to back out, the two D-rings would not touch.

    Martingale collars should never be worn when your dog isn’t on a walk or being actively supervised.

    Do Martingale Collars Hurt Dogs?

    Martingale collars are wonderful in that they are not meant to be harsh or punishing, and they are incredibly difficult for a dog’s head to slip out of.

    Newly adopted dogs and dogs that are a flight risk should ALWAYS be in a martingale collar or on a slip lead!

    They also come in a range of stylish collar options from floral to superheroes, in soft fabrics and wide widths that make them ideal for walking your Great Dane.

    A proper martingale collar for a Great Dane dog will be wide, flat, and made of nylon or fabric.

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    A Great Dane puppy in a wide, flat Martingale collar from Magnolia Mutts

    Ruffwear Chain Reaction Martingale Dog Collar

    Some models, such as the Ruffwear Chain Reaction dog collar have a metal chainlink paired with nylon that allows you to quickly zip the chain. The noise is an audible correction that will get your dog’s attention.

    The chain reaction option is good for dogs that only gently pull occasionally or need a little reminder to focus at times, but will not be good or safe for dogs that pull wildly.

    Those dogs need to be in a Herm Sprenger prong collar (more on this below).

    Martingale collars are different than choke collars: choke collars have nothing stopping them from becoming extremely tight and restrictive. Martingale collars are ‘limited slip’ and will stop becoming tighter at a certain point.

    Martingale collars are not meant not hurt your dog, but as with any training collar, if your dog is lunging, pulling, and acting as a freight train you should seek professional help.

    A dog in that state of mind is a danger to you and to itself.

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    Ruffwear Chain Reaction – See it here on Amazon

    Does a Gentle Leader Work for Great Danes?

    Like the no-pull harness, head collars (also known as ‘Gentle Leaders’ and ‘Halti’ collars) are promoted as a ‘positive’ and ‘humane’ alternative to prong collars for Great Dane dogs.

    Is the Gentle Leader an Abusive Tool?
    Things that are More Aversive Than an E Collar in Training
    EZ 900 Collar Review

    They are somewhat effective at reducing or eliminating pulling in Great Danes because they are so aversive and punishing!

    The solid majority of Great Danes require an adjustment period when introduced to head collars. They are uncomfortable to wear.

    The reality is that many dogs just don’t like them, even after weeks of positive conditioning!

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    A Great Dane wearing a Gentle Leader from Amazon

    If your Great Dane pulls or lunges in a Gentle Leader (or similar), their head will be forced to the side.

    This is fairly effective at deterring pulling and lunging, however, we believe it’s not ideal for their sanity OR their orthopedic health.

    Dog lovers everywhere should take note of this before using or recommending this tool.

    Gentle Leaders and similar devices are especially problematic for Great Danes that do tend to lunge, pull, react, or are prone to wobblers (which has a genetic link and by the moment of diagnosis, the damage has been done).

    Many times, lunging and pulling will also mean that the skin on their face will be rubbed or pushed up into their eyeballs. A dog’s face has thousands of sensitive nerve endings.

    Many Great Danes will paw, whine, lay down or frantically try and remove a head collar from their face. This is a strong indication that head collars are an aversive tool.

    Head collars are an inappropriate tool for most Great Danes, despite their popularity and widespread use.

    We only advocate for head collars when they are being used thoughtfully, with lots of positive conditioning on dogs with good structure and no genetic link to Wobblers disease…that also don’t pull, lunge or react wildly to begin with.

    They can be an appropriate and subtle communication tool for people who are relying on their highly trained Great Dane for service work and public access, or who because of age or stature cannot physically manipulate a prong collar and fully physically control a Great Dane otherwise.

    There is a time and a place for them, but as the go-to dog collar for Great Dane training? We believe it’s time to flip the script on this one, and give our Great Danes a much more elegant and humane option. (Read on, friends!).

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    Can You Use a Prong Collar on a Great Dane?

    Prong collars are actually one of the most humane, effective and ethical tools to use if you have a Great Dane that lunges or pulls you around.

    We hear you, prong collars look like torture devices and you’ve heard some negative propaganda!

    However, unlike a nylon harness or Halti Gentle Leader collar, a properly used prong collar relies on a simple YES and NO communication, not physical restraint.

    Prong collars provide a clear pressure-based sensation that when paired with positive reinforcement is incredibly effective, gentle and humane at stopping pulling and lunging.

    Your Great Dane will then redirect their focus back on you!

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    A Herm Sprenger Prong Collar – see it on Amazon

    A prong collar is meant to fit snugly on your dog’s neck, high and tight if possible. Loose, poorly fit and poorly made prong collars ARE aversive, so make sure you do it right.

    A properly used prong collar will not pop a balloon! They work by causing even pressure around your dog’s neck; this pressure is annoying to your dog but NOT painful and not damaging.

    We we only recommend HERM SPRENGER prong collars for dog training, which have blunt ends and construction that protects the trachea and creates pressure, not stabbing.

    Cheap prong collars are not made the same and may harm, confuse or frustrate your Great Dane.

    Is it cruel to use a prong collar on a dog?

    It’s a myth that prong collars are ‘inhumane and rely on pain, stabbing and harsh corrections’.

    (We will show you how to introduce a prong collar to a Great Dane in the tutorial below).

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    A poorly fit prong collar on a brindle Dane with cropped ears – this should be higher and snug so as not to rub, pinch or poke.

    A prong collar is not cruel, but would you like to know what may be?

    -Never feeling like you can take your dog places with you because they pull too much on a leash (frustrating to you AND your dog).

    -Having your dog become increasingly more frustrated, anxious, bored and under-socialized because you cannot control them in a harness (and people told you that a prong was abuse, so as above you don’t take your dog places).

    -Letting your dog jerk themselves around on a collar, harness or head collar because you don’t have a clear, concise way to communicate both YES and NO to your dog.

    -Being at your wits end with your dog, unsure what to do, hesitant to consider a prong collar because somebody misled you into believing that it was inhumane and should never be used.

    We believe the Herm Sprenger prong collar is one of the best, simplest and most humane Great Dane collars available, however you must learn how to use it correctly!

    If your Dane is rubbing their face raw in a head collar and you still think that it’s the more humane choice vs. a prong, read on to learn how the prong collar is actually a very positive tool!


    How to use a prong collar on a Great Dane

    1. Start off-leash in a boring room. Use treats and praise to reward your dog for standing at your left side and looking at you.
    2. Take a step (lure your dog to step with you if needed) and then reward your dog. YES! Treat. Gradually add steps between rewards. Once you can walk 10 steps and have your dog stay by your side for the reward, add the ‘heel’ command.
    3. Begin walking more than ten steps. Add in turns and obstacles. Keep it positive and fun!
    4. Fit your Herm Sprenger prong to your dog (High and tight, snug and ideally with a second leash clipped to a backup collar. Add a good leather or nylon leash and hold it loosely in your hand. Do not add tension! Practice walking around in your boring room with the obstacles and turns, and continue to reward your dog. This ongoing practice will give you voice control, which is much more effective and safe than physical restraint.
    5. Next, allow your dog to sniff around or walk away, or take a step back from your dog until there is tension in the leash. When you feel that tension, plant your feet on the ground (don’t move towards your dog) and continue to apply a little gentle ongoing tension from the leash.

      As soon as your dog gives into the pressure and comes towards you, the pressure will release automatically; your dog is in charge of releasing this tension, not you!

      You can mark this moment with a YES and reward your dog! Your dog should not yelp, cower, scream or act fearful. Remember, a properly used high quality prong uses pressure, not stabbing.
    1. Practice step 5 several times in your boring room and then try it outside in low-distraction environments as well! Your dog should learn very quickly that when they feel gentle pressure from the prong, they can make it stop by releasing the tension on the leash and coming to you for guidance. Notice that you are NOT jerking your dog around, popping the collar, allowing your dog to pull wildly, stringing your dog by the neck or being harsh!
    2. Practice the HEEL position with your dog as above, and continue using ‘pressure and release’ randomly to remind your dog to walk next to you, look at you, or re-engage when distracted. Fade out treats and rely mostly on praise. Remember, KEEP THE LEASH LOOSE! Never add tension unless you are deliberately communicating to your dog. When you do add tension, imagine the tension being so gentle; there is no need to yank or pull back. Gradually increase the distance of your walks and the distraction factor of the environment. Always teach your dog from kindergarten to college: do not expect PHD level obedience at Home Depot out of a dog that is used to pulling wildly and having their way! Work up to that over time.
    3. When your dog fully understands how their collar works, you can also add quick short ‘pops’ of the prong collar if your dog is not paying attention to you. A quick pop should result in your dog looking at you, at which point you can mark with a YES and a treat! Always reward the behavior that you want.
    4. With prong collar training the goal is to be as gentle as possible. If you are yanking your dog around, feel like the leash is always tight, have tense hands or are having to constantly correct your dog with ‘pops’, you haven’t set your dog up to understand their collar or how to respond to it. Go back to step one.
    5. If your dog is ‘leash reactive’ and acts like a fool on a leash, the prong collar will not be a quick fix. As with any tool (including harnesses) you can make this behavior worse if you are relying on the tool only as a ‘punishment’ or physical restraint device. Make sure to use lots of positive reinforcement and set your dog up for success by maximizing the distance between your dog and things that set them off. You can gradually close this gap as your Great Dane becomes more comfortable with their prong collar and relationship with you.

    Are Shock Collars Humane?

    The shock collar is another greatly misunderstood tool.

    Did you know that there is a huge difference between a bark collar, a shock collar and a remote dog training collar (also known as the e-collar)?

    E Collar Myths
    What is an E Collar?
    What is the Difference Between an E Collar and a Shock Collar?
    9 Reasons to E Collar Train Your Great Dane Puppy
    EZ 900 REVIEW

    Should I Use a Bark Collar on a Great Dane?

    Bark collars are an automated device meant to deter or stop nuisance barking. They use sound, noxious smells (such as citronella), shock or uncomfortable levels of muscle stimulation to reduce barking.

    Some offer multiple training modes, but in general a bark collar is meant to be a fairly basic, easy to use automated tool.

    Bark collars have their place, but it’s important to remember that if your dog barks there is often a reason. Boredom, anxiety, frustration and habit are common causes that should be addressed before using any kind of bark collar!

    For more information about using a bark collar on Great Danes, read our article here!

    Training Shock Collars for Great Danes

    A training shock collar will be inexpensive and offer three training modes: beep, vibrate and a few levels of aversive shocks. The shock is meant to punish and reduce behavior.

    We do not recommend the use of inexpensive shock collar devices on Great Danes or other large breed dogs!

    The other two training modes (vibrate and beep) are more gentle than the sharp static zap of the shock collar, so many people rely on those modes when training their Great Dane dog.

    Remote dog training collars (also known as ‘E-Collars’ or ‘Educator Collars’), on the other hand, are not they same. Far away from a traditional old-school shock collar, they are an excellent choice for Great Danes.

    Educator Remote Collars work differently than shock and rely on a wildly effective positive training and conditioning process.

    Are E-Collars Good for Great Danes?

    Many people who do not understand these more modern devices will tell you that all electric training collars all use aversive shock and that you will harm and abuse your dog by using one.

    Many people are uneducated about modern remote collar tools and have never used them or felt the stimulation from a proper one themselves, so take negative opinions with a grain of salt!

    (We will elaborate more on this below!)

    Do shock collars work on Great Danes?

    Of course, shock is very good at deterring behavior. That’s why it works; it’s easy to wave a remote at a dog and scare them away from repeating a behavior.

    When you have a giant breed dog, obedience is extremely important for their safety and yours!

    A more appropriate choice than a shock collar is to use an Educator Remote dog collar properly to teach your Great Dane dog to come enthusiastically towards you, not run away.

    This is very helpful when you want them to stop doing something they shouldn’t be doing, or run to you when something dangerous could harm them.

    This is why we advocate for the proper use of modern E-Collars (proactive training), not shock collars (reactive training).

    How do E-Collars work?

    A modern electronic training collar uses low levels of gentle muscle stimulation that will feel like a touch sensation, not harsh shock or aversive vibration. Following some quick, fun training exercises dogs learn to respond to this stimulation.

    The best part about a modern electric stimulation collar is that it relies on communication, not physical restraint!
    This is the best and most humane thing for our dogs.

    E-Collar trained dogs:

    1. Come when called, reliably
    2. Will happily walk away from something when asked
    3. Can be taught to walk off-leash or in a loose leash position
    4. Are under voice control, not physical restraint, which is much safer and better for their orthopedic health
    5. Are kept safe: a dog that has excellent recall and off-leash obedience is not running away, bolting out of the door or jumping over fences
    6. Have more enrichment: an off-leash trained dog will always have better access to natural physical and mental activities such as swimming, running up and down hills, zooming around, climbing, playing and circling than an on-leash, long-leashed or yard-only dog.
    7. Cannot damage their gait, neck or shoulders as they can in choke collars, flat collars, harnesses and head collars.

    Training your dog with an E-Collar means FREEDOM.

    Other dog collars cannot offer any of what we listed above. The modern E-Collar is an elegant, gentle and effective tool.

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    A remote-collar trained dog enjoying off-leash freedom AND safety

    A life changing Great Dane training tool

    Many people have told us that our positive E-Collar training method, paired with an Educator collar changed their lives!

    We are hearing from Great Dane dog owners who are quickly seeing more freedom, more fun, less frustration, less anxiety and a better relationship between them and their dog.

    If you are looking for the best training collar for a Great Dane, we believe that Educator Collars and the positive remote collar training method is key.

    The Easy Educator and the Mini-Educator are the best training collars for Great Danes and large breed dogs. They are rugged, waterproof, have a fantastic battery life, and offer 100 levels of stimulation that at low levels cannot be felt by humans.

    If you are looking for the best shock collar for your Great Dane, start looking for remote Educator collars instead. We promise it will be worth the extra investment and a little time spent on dog training!

    OUR 10 FAVORITE GREAT DANE COLLARS

    Mini-Educator

    This is the most economical and user-friendly option for modern remote off-leash training.

    ET 302 FrontSS Side

    Easy-Educator

    Choose this option if you want more features and have a slightly bigger budget for choosing the best remote single or multi dog system for your Great Dane.

    EZ 900 Right

    Biothane Bungee Educator Collar

    All Educator receivers (the part that your dog wears) should be paired with a bungee collar made of Biothane. The bungee makes it comfortable for your Great Dane to wear the electric dog collar and ensures a good fit!

    A collar like this will NOT have a leash attachment, as its meant to be worn on its own.

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    Educator Bungee Biothane Strap

    Herm Sprenger Prong Collar

    As above, we believe the Herm Sprenger Prong collar is the most effective, humane and gentle option for Great Dane dogs that pull, lunge and struggle to focus. A properly used prong is one of the safest and most gentle Great Dane collars you can choose! Work with your dog using positive reinforcement and plan to fade this one out over time.

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    Magnolia Mutts Custom Fabric Martingale Collar

    We love Magnolia Mutts because she donates a large portion of her income each month to Great Dane rescues! She makes beautiful Martingale dog collars for Great Danes that are fashionable and well-made.

    We believe that a Magnolia Mutts martingale collar is one of the best Great Dane collars available for dogs that have been trained to not pull or lunge on a leash.

    Slip Lead

    A slip lead works by fitting snugly on your dog’s neck and making it so that there is no way for them to escape. Slip leads are a MUST have for dogs that will escape a dog collar or harness. They are also so helpful for quick trips!

    What is the Best Leash for Great Danes?

    Lastly, we recommend keeping slip leads in your car and around the house; you never know when you might need one.

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    Blueberry Pets Everyday Collar

    Blueberry Pets on Amazon has lots of choices in dog collars for your Great Dane. We like this option if you are looking for a good inexpensive and basic regular collar to hold dog tags or wear around the house.

    This is a good collar choice for puppies! Choose an inexpensive, adjustable collar that will fit your Great Dane’s neck size as they grow, and that has a leash attachment for those early socialization experiences and leash training exercises.

    Blueberry Pets offers different collars to catch the eye of many different dog parents.

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    Stylish Leather Collar

    A leather collar is a rugged, beautiful dog collar for your Great Dane!

    The great thing about a leather collar is that it is bound to last. They are tough and tend to wear well with age. Choose this for dogs that don’t pull, when you want something more rugged and more stylish than a basic nylon collar!

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    Tactical Leather Dog Collar, see it on Amazon

    Custom Biothane Collar

    Biothane is an amazing material that is stink-proof and comes in beautiful colors. Choose this to hold tags on dogs that like to get muddy!

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    Olly Dog Biothane Collar for Great Danes

    Tactical Collar

    Tactical collars look cool and they are rugged enough to hold up to our giant breed dogs. Choose this for walking dogs that DON’T pull.

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    Tactical Dog Collar – See it on Amazon HERE

    Ruffwear Chain Reaction

    The Ruffwear Chain Reaction is a dog training collar for dog owners that need a little extra control than they get from a martingale or basic flat collar.

    It’s a mid-option between martingale and prong dog collars that will help your Great Dane dog understand that they need to focus on you.

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    Ruffwear Chain Reaction – See it here on Amazon

    HOW TO CHOOSE A GREAT DANE COLLAR

    When you are looking for the perfect collar for your Great Dane dog, we hope to have been helpful.

    We have covered everything from the best collar material, the best dog collar for puppies, how to choose a waterproof dog training collar, the best Great Dane collars for adult dogs that pull, and shock collar training (including information about the best shock collar options for your pet).

    Need more? Join our Facebook group, below!

    READ MORE:

    Screen Shot 2022 03 30 at 2.11.34 PM

    JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

    Do you like modern positive+balanced off-leash dog training, science-based information, life with Danes, educated ownership and chatting with other like-minded people?

    Join our growing Facebook group!

  • Walking a Great Dane on a Leash

    Walking a Great Dane on a Leash

    Taking a Great Dane for a walk doesn’t have to be a challenging experience filled with pulling and stress. However, many of us have experienced that exact problem! Given their size and tenacity, untrained Great Danes have the tendency to turn the tables. They end up walking us instead. If walking a Great Dane on a leash calmly and gently is something you would like to do properly, this article is for you!

    This article covers:

    • The dangers of Great Danes with bad leash manners
    • How to teach Great Dane puppies to walk on a leash
    • Training tips for teaching adult Great Danes to stop pulling
    • The best tools and gear for Great Danes
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    1. Leash Skills Matter for Great Danes

    Inappropriate leash skills can actually cause damage to both you and your pets.

    It is essential to train your Great Dane the appropriate way to walk on a leash. Not only will this make public times more enjoyable for both of you, but it can also prevent health problems that can occur from pulling on the leash.

    Damage to Dogs from Poor Leash Skills

    Some common problems that can arise from incorrect leash skills are joint damage, neck and back injuries, and tracheal damage.

    These injuries most commonly happen while training dogs when the dogs yank extremely hard. This hard pulling causes the Great Dane’s owners to feel the need to yank back in order to gain control. This tension between owner and dogs can create extreme unnecessary strain on a large breed dog’s neck.

    Injury to an Owner’s Back/Neck from Negative Leash Skills

    Owners too, can get injuries from large breed dogs who are stronger than them and eager to yank on walks.

    If your dog is excited and sees a rabbit or other dog, they can yank so hard that you might be pulled off your feet. This can cause serious injuries to your back or neck.

    Additionally, if they are ‘chronic pullers’, your back / spine / neck will get fatigued and your muscles can begin to feel sore or painful.

    Training your Great Dane to act correctly in public from the start will save you both a lot of pain and frustration in the long run.

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    2. Teaching a Great Dane Puppy How to Walk on a Leash

    Teaching a Great Dane puppy to walk on a leash involves patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Here are some steps you can follow:

    1. Start Early:
      Begin leash training as early as possible, ideally when your Great Dane is still a puppy. This helps them develop positive associations with the leash and prevents the formation of bad habits.
    2. Get the Right Equipment:
      We recommend using a wide, flat martingale collar which is escape proof and safe as long as the puppy is not pulling. Read HERE for why we do not recommend front-clip “no-pull” harnesses or Gentle Leader head collars.
    3. Introduce the Leash:
      Let your puppy get used to the leash by allowing them to investigate it in a controlled environment. Praise and reward them for any positive interaction with the leash.
    4. Associate Positive Experiences:
      Associate the leash with positive experiences. For example, put the leash on before mealtime or playtime. This helps create positive associations with the leash.
    5. Indoor Practice:
      Start leash training indoors where there are fewer distractions. Allow your puppy to drag the leash around while supervised, praising them for walking calmly.
    6. Short Walks:
      Begin with short walks in a quiet and familiar environment. Keep the walks positive and enjoyable. Use treats and praise to reward your puppy for walking nicely on the leash.
    7. Avoid Pulling:
      If your puppy starts pulling, stop walking. Do not move forward until they return to your side. Reward them for walking beside you.
    8. Consistency is Key:
      Be consistent with your commands and rewards. Use the same cues and rewards every time you walk. Consistency helps your puppy understand what is expected.
    9. Gradual Exposure:
      Gradually expose your puppy to different environments, people, and other dogs while on the leash. This helps them become accustomed to various stimuli.
    10. Positive Reinforcement:
      Always use positive reinforcement. Reward good behavior with treats, praise, or play. This encourages your puppy to repeat the desired behavior.
    11. Patience and Calmness:
      Stay patient and calm during the training process. Avoid getting frustrated, as puppies can sense your emotions. Training should be a positive and enjoyable experience for both of you.

    Remember, every puppy is unique, so adjust your training approach based on your Great Dane’s individual needs and temperament. If you encounter specific challenges, consider seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer.

    3. Using a Long Leash with Your Great Dane Puppy

    Using a long leash is a valuable tool when training calm leash skills and recall in Great Dane puppies.

    The extended length provides them with a sense of freedom while maintaining control. During training sessions, start in a secure and spacious area, allowing the puppy to explore and move around with the extended lead.

    PRO TIP: We highly recommend doing this in LOW distraction areas where there is no chance your excited Great Dane puppy will wrap themselves around another dog or human they encounter!

    Reinforce positive behavior by rewarding them for walking calmly beside you and responding to recall commands. The length of the leash allows for gradual distance increases, promoting a strong recall response.

    As the puppy becomes accustomed to the long leash, it serves as a bridge to off-leash training, fostering a sense of reliability and trust between the owner and the Great Dane. Consistency, positive reinforcement, and gradual progression are key elements in utilizing a long leash effectively for cultivating both leash manners and recall abilities in these large and lovable puppies.

    Do not forget to reward your Great Dane Puppy!

    As they respond to your commands and learn to stay close, reward your Great Dane puppy with lots of training treats. Your pup will probably look clumsy while beginning to leash train and they might even get tangled up in the long leash. That is okay!

    We recommend using your puppies kibble to reinforce and reward these skills. You can also use small amounts of high-value treats such as cheese, Charlee Bear, and Ziwi Peak!

    4. How to Choose the Best Leash for a Great Dane Puppy

    You might think it is okay to choose any collar, any harness, or any leash for your Great Dane puppy or even adult Great Dane. However, each item should be chosen with care!

    5. Using a harness for a Great Dane

    We do not recommend the use of a harness. There has been some small studies done that show the use of a harness actually can change the way your Great Dane puppy and adult Great Dane begins to walk and move. The harness can add additional strain on your dane, causing them to pull harder and changing the way that their body allows them to move.

    6. Which collar is best for training purposes

    You will need to make a decision whether or not you will like to e collar train your Great Dane. We are advocates of ethical, balanced e collar training. You can find an abundance of e collar training resources in our ecollar guide below.

    However, never attach a leash onto the e collar. You will need an additional collar to attach your Great Dane onto with a leash. Great Danes and other dogs should never have a leash attached to their e collar.

    Standard collars come in all sorts of designs, colors, patterns and fabrics. We recommend prioritizing one that fits correctly, is washable or wipeable and that is suitable for a big dog. Great Dane owners will likely need to purchase multiple collars: one for their puppy, possibly one for a teenager Great Dane, and another for adult Great Danes.

    Taking Your Great Dane Puppy on a Walk on a Leash

    When leash training a Great Dane puppy, start with your first outdoor walk on a leash in an environment with as few distractions as possible – inside the house or in the backyard are good places to start. This time, you will be using a standard length leash. Choose a space with enough room to move, but not so much space that you cannot conduct safe and effective Great Dane walking skills.

    Start with short distances

    Great Danes are active dogs who need lots of mental stimulation and play as well as training. However, leash training should be done in short spurts so that your puppy has positive association and learns that when it is time to train they will not get exhausted by being asked to walk.

    Grab some treats and get ready to walk!

    Choose a spot that you know your Great Dane will be safe and free from distractions. Have your puppy wear the leash for short periods of time at first, gradually increasing the amount of time as they get used to it. Start to walk with your Great Dane for a few steps, then stop your puppy and say their name to get eye contact. Then ask your dane to sit. If their bottom moves downward into a sit position, say the marker word ‘YES’, and reward heavily!

    Short, frequent breaks and praise while training to walk

    Reward your puppy with treats or praise whenever they walk calmly on a leash or listen to other commands like sit. Great Danes are a growing, large and strong breed so it is of utmost importance to lead them by a confident, calm and peaceful example. They are also extremely intuitive and will pick up on their owners nerves and feelings.

    7. Why does eye contact with Great Danes make such a difference?

    Also, there can never be too much praise when your Great Dane gives you eye contact. You want to ensure that your Great Dane LOVES to look at you–especially when you are outside and there are so many other fun things to look at. Other dogs, squirrels, people, or noises/smells can take attention of your puppy off of you. But with guidance and training your Dane can learn that you are just as exciting as the distractions.

    And be patient – remember that puppies have shorter attention spans than adults, so have shorter training sessions and give lots of patience with your Great Dane puppy!

    8. What to do if Your Great Dane Pulls on the Leash

    Leash training is a lifelong skill and you might not get the desired behavior right away. Additionally, leash training requires you to continue training throughout the entire life of your Great Dane.

    If your Great Dane is pulling on the leash, there are a few things you can do to correct the behavior. First, make sure that your dog is wearing a collar that fits properly. A loose collar can provide too much slack, making it easy for your dog to pull.

    Second, keep your walks short at first and gradually increase the distance as your dog gets better at walking on a leash.

    Third, be consistent with your commands and rewards. Every time your dog walks calmly beside you, give them a treat or verbal praise.

    Next, try to practice in areas with little distractions

    Finally, don’t forget to have patience; leash training is a lifelong skill and it will take time for your dog to learn how to walk calmly on a leash.

    9. Going from Stressful Leash Walks to Enjoyable Leash walking

    When your dog pulls on the leash, you may feel like you’re in for a long walk. However, with a little patience and practice, you can help your dog how to heel and make walks more enjoyable for both of you. To start, stand still for a few seconds after you put the leash on your dog. This will give your pup time to settle down and get used to the leash. Then, begin to walk, very slow, taking only a few steps before stopping again.

    Moving into longer distanced walks and Great Dane leash training

    Once your dog realizes that he needs to stay by your side, you can start going for longer distances. If at any point during the walk your dog begins to pull ahead, simply stop and wait until he sits back down at your feet. Waiting for your Great Dane to sit is extremely helpful. However, getting that eye contact is of equal importance. Make your eyes super enticing by pulling a treat up to your eye level so that their eyes are lead to your own. This action is training your Great Dane (and other dogs) that by looking to you for guidance they will be rewarded.

    Make sure to bring along lots of treats and reward heavily when the pulling resides.

    10. The Best Leash for Great Dane Leash Training

    The type of leash you use can make a big difference in how successful your training is.

    A long leash can be used for more spacious walks once your dog is able to be given more freedom. Long leashes can also be great tools to teach recall. Some long leads are linked below for your convenience.

    A short leash is a good choice for more day-to-day practice, as it will give you more control over your dog and prevent them from getting tangled up. The following suggestions can be purchased in 4 feet, 6 feet or 8 feet.

    Retractable leashes are not recommended, as they can be difficult to control and may cause your dog to get tangled up.

    We recommend being cautious when using a harness or a fancy retractable leash. Most harnesses can cause joint / conformation issues because they put all the pressure on your dog’s chest instead of their back. A standard collar and leash is the best way to go when first starting out with training.

    11. How to Teach Leash Manners in the Midst of Distractions

    When you’re out with your dog, it’s important to be able to stop them from pulling on the leash or running off after squirrels without losing your cool. Here are a few tips to teach your dog to not pull in the midst of distractions.

    First, start with basic obedience commands like sit and stay. Once your dog has mastered these commands in a low-distraction environment, you can begin working on stop walking in areas with more distractions.

    If your dog starts to pull or run off after something, simply stop walking. Once they look back at you, start walking again. Direct your Great Dane to give you their attention by showing them that you have treats, and pulling the treats up to your eyes to get good eye contact.

    Repeat this process until your dog is responding consistently. With patience and practice, you’ll be able to teach your dog stop leash pulling even in the most distracting situations.

    In Conclusion:

    In conclusion, with a little patience and practice, you can transform stressful times into enjoyable ones. The key is to be consistent with your commands and rewards, and to keep training sessions short so that your dog doesn’t get overwhelmed. With time and patience, you’ll be able to work with your dog how to heel and have calm, pleasant walks together.

  • Respect Training Tips: How to Train Your Puppy Great Dane

    Respect Training Tips: How to Train Your Puppy Great Dane

    If you are the proud owner of a Great Dane, then you will want to make sure that you start training them as soon as possible. What is puppy respect training for Great Danes? Let’s dig in.

    These dogs grow to be large, strong, and powerful! It is important that they learn how to behave themselves early on. In this blog post, we will discuss some respect training tips that will help get your pup on the right track!

    If your dog is biting, stealing, running away, pulling, lunging, dangerous, or out of control there may be things you are doing (or not doing) in your own home that are making these things worse.

    Puppy Socialization
    Puppy Culture: A Way to Socialize from the Start
    Puppy Socialization Guide
    How to Crate Train a Great Dane Puppy

    We are here to help you!

    Read on for more practical tips including Great Dane puppy respect training, basic commands, advanced training, and more.

    WHAT IS PUPPY RESPECT TRAINING?

    Puppy respect training is, in essence, obedience training.

    Keep in mind that a Great Dane is not going to respect you if you rely on harsh, forceful, intimidating, or punitive training techniques!

    These ‘old school’ training ideas (often marketed as a way to establish your rank as the ‘pack leader’) may produce quick results, but in the long run, will do more harm than good.

    DOES YOUR DOG SEE YOU AS HIS RESPECTED LEADER?

    The day that you bring your dog home is the day that you should start establishing this positive relationship.

    PROTECT – TRAIN – LEAD – COMMUNICATE

    Protecting your dog means making sure that their health, comfort, and physical and emotional needs are met.

    Training your dog means that you spend time teaching your young pup what behaviors you like and don’t like.

    Leading your dog means that you teach, guide, and lead with respect. The unbreakable bond you build with your dog by being a positive, trustworthy, and benevolent leader will pay off!

    Communicating with your dog means telling them everything they need to know to make mature decisions: yes and no.

    respect training

    Get the family involved in teaching your dog!

    Other members of the family can take advantage of your puppy’s natural desire to connect with others and feel safe.

    Training, praise, treats, toys, play, fun, and cuddles are amazing ways for everybody involved to reinforce engagement and good obedience skills.

    Establish house rules for your dog and encourage everybody to follow them.

    HOW TO MAKE YOUR DOG ENGAGE WITH YOU

    We recommend that you spend quality time with your puppy focused on showing them new places, things, sounds, textures, and experiences. Find things that your dog loves and use them as a reward!

    By sharing these experiences together, your puppy will come to learn that you can be respected and are a source of good things.

    It’s important that you teach your new dog what you expect of them, and teach them to be calm, confident, and cool in a scary, busy world.

    How do you discipline a puppy but not be mean?

    All puppies are going to do things they should not do! Don’t give them the wrong idea by being forceful and intimidating, or by accidentally rewarding the wrong things.

    Puppies, especially as they mature, will jump, steal, pull, whine, bark, chew, and run away.

    Many times, the best correction is the most simple! Removing your attention from your puppy is one of the most powerful early forms of ‘NO’ that puppies understand.

    Dog problems

    The truth is, those behaviors are normal, natural, and VERY rewarding to them! That doesn’t mean, however, that it’s ok for your dog to be out of control.

    Great Danes are sensitive animals.

    While correcting your dog it is important to note that if you want to prevent future behavioral problems, you don’t have to be mean or harsh.

    A few rules and boundaries, paired with positive teaching using food rewards is an amazing combination.

    Train the dog to repeat things that you want to see by using a lot of positive reinforcement. When you do this, the corrections that you have to use make much more sense to your dog!

    respect training

    BALANCED TRAINING

    Balancing your dog training and your dog’s behavior is very simple. Balanced dog training for Great Danes is humane and science-based!

    Discipline and corrections that you might use for a Great Dane puppy include:

    • Reducing their access to something
    • Redirecting them to something appropriate
    • Preventing the behavior by managing the environment
    • Walking away and removing your attention
    • Saying ‘AH AH’ or ‘NO’ to stop behaviors that could be dangerous to them
    • Popping their leash with a quick pop to ‘snap them out of it’

    Once your dog is older, appropriate corrections and communication may be implemented with the use of tools such as prong collars and E-Collars, following a conditioning phase.

    E-Collars and prong collars for Great Danes

    We highly recommend doing a lot of research on these tools prior to using them! We have a huge collection of E-Collar resources to help. For more information on E-Collar conditioning, read our blog post!

    BAD DOG TRAINING ADVICE

    Never hit, kick, pinch or pin your dog to the ground. If you think you have to do that to get control of your dog or to ‘be the pack leader’, there are bigger issues at play. We highly recommend that you seek out the help of a highly qualified positive-balanced dog trainer.

    If you lead with punitive punishments, chances are that your dog will redirect their own building aggression, anxiety, and frustration into other training problems (or worse, onto you!).

    Positive Reinforcement vs. Corrections in dog training

    Positive reinforcement (R+) is the best way to teach your dog new skills.

    Sit, down, wait, leave it, stay, heel, and come are all things that are easy to reinforce with treats, praise, play, fun, freedom, and access to things.

    Training sessions should be short, fun, and always end on a good note!

    Bad behaviors, on the other hand, require that you work on two things:

    OPTION 1MANAGEMENT & PREVENTION

    This option is helpful for things such as chewing, biting/aggression/resource guarding, fence jumping, and destruction, where the problem is both dangerous and hard to control.

    OPTION IICORRECTIONS AND COMMUNICATION

    Corrections and communication are helpful when the dog knows what they should be doing instead. This can be used for things such as running out of doors, fence jumping, stealing food off the counter, and pulling.

    Respect Training Great Dane Puppies

    Some trainers will tell you never to use corrections or say ‘NO’ to your dog.

    They will tell you to only use ‘option 1’.

    These trainers often claim to be ‘positive only’ or ‘force-free’, and they rely heavily on physical restraint and management.

    Managing movement, freedom, and access to the world so that a dog never has to be ‘corrected’ is, for many dogs, restrictive, frustrating, and inhumane.

    This is why we recommend a much more comprehensive and fair balanced training approach that relies heavily on positive experiences, the relationship that you have with your dog and transparency about what your dog can and cannot do.

    Should I use a spray bottle to discipline my Great Dane?

    We do not recommend giving even a ‘quick squirt’ with a squirt bottle. This form of training seems ‘gentle’ but is not harmless.

    Training Mistakes
    What is Great Dane Dominance Training?

    The last thing you want is for your 140lb giant dog to be afraid of water! Handling, spray medications, hoses, and baths are just some things that your giant breed dog may resist if you utilize this method to punish your dog.

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    HOW DO I GET MY DOG TO RESPECT ME AS THE ALPHA?

    The entire concept of the ‘alpha dog’ is deeply flawed. It was based on poorly done, outdated studies of captive wolves, and the original findings were actually retracted!

    Run from any dog trainer who is still telling you that dog training boils down to a power contest between you and your pet!

    You do need to provide guidance, boundaries, leadership, exercise, and training, however.

    Several short, fun teaching sessions each day paired with structure, routine, and fair corrections will always be the way to go. If you want your dog to respect you, build your relationship on trust!

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    HOW TO GET YOUR DOG’S RESPECT

    Here is our list of tips for getting your dog’s respect:

    1. Honor their body language: learn what they are telling you, and be open to listening! Make them feel safe with you.
    2. Encourage them to be confident. Push them a little bit out of their comfort zone, but not too far. Then reward them like crazy!
    3. Ask them for eye contact and give them lots of attention for it.
    4. Reinforce and reward all good behavior.
    5. Stay calm. Don’t resort to aggression or frustration while leading your dog.
    6. Make sure your dog is getting plenty of mental and physical enrichment.
    7. Don’t baby your dog! Contrary to popular belief, Great Danes can play in the mud, run, jump and play.
    8. Spend more time saying YES than saying NO to your dog.
    9. Remember that most behavior problems stem from boredom, anxiety, frustration, fear, habit, and hormones. If you are frustrated, that’s a sign that your dog is as well!
    10. Have fun with your dog. Be the BEST part of their day!
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    IS DOG RESPECT TRAINING HUMANE?

    You cannot force a dog to ‘respect’ you, and certain things will for sure erode trust. By being calm, trustworthy, and thoughtful you are being a humane dog owner!

    As a matter of fact, one of the most humane things you can do is to train your dog.

    Well-trained dogs that are taught both YES and NO will be well-balanced, confident, and resilient.

    Great Dane Dogs + Freedom to make choices

    A dog that can be trusted off-leash enjoys freedom and autonomy that other dogs can only dream of.

    A dog that can safely go on a walk anywhere will quickly have access to enriching socialization experiences and new environments.

    A dog that has been taught that it’s never acceptable to jump, lunge, steal or run out of a door is a dog that is being kept safe.

    Using balanced training methods for your Great Dane puppy is the best, most fair, most humane and most effective thing you can do for your dog!

    SIGNS THAT YOU NEED OBEDIENCE WORK: RUDE GREAT DANE BEHAVIORS

    Bad behavior is frustrating to you and dangerous to others. It is important for dog owners to understand how to teach and correct their Great Danes before the problems become a dangerous uphill battle.

    The three-step process for solving training issues:

    1. Manage

    2. Teach & Reward

    3. Communicate or Correct

    RUNNING AWAY

    Does your Great Dane puppy run away from you and refuse to come when called?

    We recommend the following:

    1. Don’t let your dog off-leash until they have excellent recall. (Manage)
    2. Use dog treats, praise, and play to make it fun to come back. (Teach)
    3. Practice recall in low distraction areas, then work your way up
    4. Use a long Biothane leash when out walking, and practice recall
    5. Never chase your dog or scold them for running away. This is the wrong approach that makes recall and running away worse!
    6. E-Collar train for off-leash reliability anywhere you go (Communicate)

    STEALING FOOD

    If your Great Dane likes to steal food from people or from the counter, they risk harming themselves with toxic or dangerous foods. Dogs love this game and are very rewarded by it. Despite what you may think, they don’t feel guilty about it but they ARE afraid of your reaction!

    1. Keep the counters clear of tasty food they may want. (Manage)
    2. Teach ‘leave it’ (Teach)
    3. Teach ‘place’
    4. Implement an appropriate correction

    JUMPING ON PEOPLE

    Jumping is dangerous because a Great Dane can seriously hurt somebody.

    How to Stop a Great Dane from Jumping Up

    1. Make your dog wait before being pet so that you can reward calm behavior with attention.
    2. Teach ‘place’
    3. Teach ‘off’, ‘sit’, and ‘leave it’
    4. Correct the behavior, when appropriate

    REACTIVITY

    Telling ‘off’ people & dogs

    A Great Dane dog that displays growling, lunging, barking, or aggression is a dog that requires obedience training.

    Is My Great Dane Being Aggressive?

    1. Teach and reward sit, down, leave it, wait, stay, come, off, and place.
    2. Make sure your dog feels protected: don’t make a habit of exposing your dog to situations where such reactivity puts them in an out-of-control headspace.
    3. Make sure all family members understand how to manage reactivity and use training and counter-conditioning to reduce it.

    THE BEST DOG EVER

    Everybody dreams of having the perfect pet. A dog that listens has respect, and has developed a strong bond with its owner is wonderful. Dogs that are well trained have a lot more freedom, choice, and autonomy, too!

    Puppies vs. Adult Dogs

    It’s important to remember that an adult dog will be more mature than a young one; many ‘problems’ are a simple factor of immaturity, missed teaching opportunities, and a lack of experience!

    Bad behavior in dogs also happens often because of boredom, anxiety, or poor leadership (and teaching).

    Hopefully our blog post today will help you get on the right track with your dog!

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  • 9 of the Best Tips to Having a Trained Great Danes

    9 of the Best Tips to Having a Trained Great Danes

    Having trained Great Danes is something every Great Dane owner wants to accomplish.

    There’s something about a Great Dane that just makes you fall in love. They are gentle giants, and make perfect pets for families with children. They are also one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.

    However, a Great Dane requires major obedience training. With proper basic training from an early age, socialization, and positive reinforcement, you can train your Great Dane to use the behavior that you desire.

    Trained Great Danes require everyday life training sessions

    In this blog post, we will discuss 9 simple tips to incorporate in your dog training with your Great Danes that will make you love them even more!

    Then, we will discuss how you can start training your Great Dane with these basic tips that any owner can incorporate with their large breed dog from a young age.

    One: Teach Your Great Dane Basic Potty Training Skills

    House training your new Great Dane puppy is an essential skill for any dog owner. The good news is that working to potty train your pup is relatively easy, and it’s a great way to bond with your new Great Dane.

    Create a Designated Area that your Great Dane Puppy can Potty

    The first step is to create a designated potty area; this can be either inside or outside, depending on your preferences.

    Great Dane Puppies Potty Frequently

    Once you have a potty area, you’ll need to take your new puppy there frequently, preferably after each meal. When your Great Dane puppy does his business in the potty area, be sure to praise him lavishly; this will help him understand that he’s doing what you want him to do.

    Overnight Pottying for Your Great Dane Puppy

    The rule of thumb for any Great Dane puppy is that they can hold their bladder for one hour per month of age. So, a three-month-old Great Dane puppy can hold it for three hours overnight. So, if you have a new Great Dane dog, plan to let them out throughout the night in order to help them be successful.

    Have Patience with Training Your Great Dane Puppy Potty Training

    Finally, keep in mind that accidents will happen; if your pup has an accident indoors, simply clean it up and do not ‘punish’ puppies for having accidents in the house. Getting angry at your puppy for going potty in the house is not the best method to teaching them. A new Great Dane puppy needs to be shown this basic command before it knows right from wrong. Additionally, your Great Dane puppy often does not have control over its bladder.

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    Two: Using a Crate: Positive Training with your Great Dane

    Using a crate is an effective way to train your Great Dane and establish obedience.

    Crate training should be used in conjunction with positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, as the primary training method.

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    How to crate train a Great Dane: click here

    Why does Crate Training Help Great Danes?

    Crate training will help your puppy or adult Great Dane learn how to stay in one place and follow commands from the owner.

    Crate training is also a good way to teach your Great Dane how to be quiet when required, such as during crate rest periods. When choosing to crate train a Great Dane, dog owners help their Great Dane to learn how to take a break.

    Stress, Anxiety and Overall Behavior with Great Dane Training and Crates

    Dogs that are crate trained tend to be less stressed and more obedient overall, which makes for a happier owner-dog relationship. Proper crate training takes time and patience, but the rewards are well worth it for both you and your dog.

    Trained Great Dane

    Three: Working on Great Dane Training to Stop the Constant Barking

    Dogs bark for a variety of reasons, from excitement and fear to hunger and boredom. While some level of barking is perfectly normal, excessive barking can be frustrating for both dog and owner.

    Great Dane Training and Barking

    Great Danes can be prone to excessive barking, but with patience and consistency, you can teach your dog to stop the constant yapping. As with all training, it’s important to start with basic commands such as sit, stay, and come.

    Understanding Why Your Great Dane is Barking

    Before you train a Great Dane to stop barking, you have to understand why they are demonstrating this behavior in the first place.

    Trained Great Dane

    Your Great Dane could be barking for a variety of reasons:

    1. To get your attention: If your Great Dane is barking and you immediately give them what they want (e.g., attention, food, water, etc.), they will quickly learn that this is an effective way to get what they want from you.
    2. To alert you of something: If your Great Dane is barking and there’s truly something worthy of your attention (e.g., someone at the door, another dog in the yard, etc.), they may just be trying to tell you that something is going on.
    3. Out of boredom or loneliness: If your Great Dane is left alone for long periods of time with nothing to do, they may bark out of boredom or loneliness.
    4. Because they are anxious: If your Great Dane is anxious or fearful of something (e.g., loud noises, unfamiliar people or animals, etc.), they may bark as a way to try and calm themselves down.
    5. As an expression of excitement: If your Great Dane is excited about something (e.g., going for a walk, seeing you after being away, etc.), they may bark as a way to show their excitement.
    6. Because they have not gotten enough exercise: A dog that is not given enough exercise is often the type that will bark out of boredom or frustration.

    If your Great Dane is barking excessively, it’s important to figure out why they are doing this so you can address the underlying issue. Once you know why your dog is barking, you can begin working on Great Dane training to stop the bark.

    Training Dogs to Stop Barking

    Once your Great Dane has a good understanding of these commands, you can begin working on specific behaviors, like barking.

    Five: Training your Great Dane to Walk on Leash

    Leash training your Great Dane can be a bit of challenge, as they are a strong dog breed. However, with patience and consistency, you can train your dog to walk calmly on a leash.

    It Takes Practice to Leash Train Your Great Dane

    Introduce your dog or puppy to collar and leash time.

    Start out by letting him wear a harness or collar for short periods in your house while you play with him. Make sure to give lots of treats; this will help form an association between wearing those things because it means food (and fun!) Waste no energy training without rewarding results!

    Use a ‘Marker Word’ to Tell Your Dog Which Behavior You Like

    To get your puppy excited and eager to learn commands related to the leash, teach him a marker word. You can choose any word, like ‘YES’ or other.

    Once you say the word, offer treats when he looks at you or turns his head in response. Repeat this process several times until it becomes routine for both of you – just be sure not make any loud noises during training so that distractions don’t arise unexpectedly later on down the road.

    It is best to begin training all commands inside, rather than outside. Your dog will face many distractions outside, such as other dogs, people, and noises.

    You want your dog to be focused on you during training sessions so he can learn the commands quickly and easily. Once he masters the commands inside, you can begin taking him outside for short leash walks around the block.

    Train Your Dog to Walk Towards you with the Marker Word and a Reward / Treat

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    Once your dog learns identify that the marker word signifies something positive (a treat), you can begin to practice getting your dog to walk towards you. Start in a room with little distraction to help your puppy learn what it means when you call him. Offer treats and praise as he gets used walking towards you on command. By using the leash around his neck, use the marker word and apply small pressure on you puppies neck. When they begin to walk towards you- be sure to heavily reward positive obedience with praise and a treat!

    Heading Outside with Your New Dog or Puppy

    When you take your new pup outside for his first training, it’s important that they know it is not socialization time. If you have other pets, be sure to prioritize one-on-one time with this specific dog, rather than bringing along all of your dogs.

    Make sure the environment is welcoming and calming so he has no reason to be scared or anxious on this exciting step towards positivity in your dog’s behavior!

    Start by taking short walks while noting any distractions such as things which seem interesting enough (but not too much)to lunge towards; if these occur keep moving away slowly until they forget about what distracted them originally – then reward accordingly with a marker word and a treat.

    If you notice that your dog seems to lose attention on you when he sees other dogs, direct his attention back towards you and reward him when he gives you eye contact. Great Danes are a giant breed dog and their sheer size along is enough to need to make sure that they do not pull, lunge, or otherwise strain.

    Then, during a training session, walk with your dog at your side while rewarding them for calm behavior. If they start to pull on the leash, stop walking and wait for them to settle down before continuing. With time and practice, your dog will learn that walking calmly on a leash is rewarded, and pulling is not.

    Finally, remember to be patient and consistent with your training – Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a well behaved dog.

    Seven: Introducing your Great Dane to Other Pets or Other Dogs

    One of the most important things you can do when you first get your Great Dane is to properly socialize him. This does not necessarily mean introducing him to as many different people, places, and animals as possible, but can be.

    You should start socialization training when your puppy is between seven and eight weeks old. The earlier you start, the better.

    The best way to socialize a dog is to bring them around chaotic environments but do not force or even allow interactions.

    Parking lots are great ways to ‘socialize’ your dog. Think of it as people watching.

    Take your dog with you on normal life trips to a friends house or sit outside of a busy shop and let your dog hear new sounds. Be weary of letting everybody pet your dog. Getting pet by strangers can tell your dog that they are the center of the attention and chaos, when we actually just want them to exist within the chaos.

    Additionally, sometimes dogs can get anxiety when being pet by random people and we want to set them up for success in being pet later in life. Therefore, choose wisely when you let others pet your puppy.

    Socialization is important, but over-socialization is a real thing and can create a dog that is fearful of new environments or situations.

    A well socialized dog is not afraid of new things, but is okay with them. He should be able to take anything new in stride and not be phased by it. If you find your dog is getting frequent exposure to noises, smells and new things, they will be set up to not be fearful in the future.

    Eight: Choosing a Puppy Class or Training Program

    One of the best things you can do for your new puppy is sign up for a puppy program or training program.

    A good puppy class will teach your pup basic obedience commands, such as sit, stay, come and down.

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    5 Common mistakes you may be making when Training Your Great Dane

    Puppy classes also provide an opportunity for socialization, which is critical during the first year.

    You do not, however want to sign up for just any class. Be careful to select a trainer who is certified to award the Good Citizen Canine certificate to your dog.

    You can usually find a balanced trainer who will work your dog through the Good Citizen Canine program on the AKC site.

    Classes at places like Petsmart we do not recommend as their training method typically does not align with ours and sometimes they have inexperienced trainers.

    Nine: Using Treats to Your Advantage in the House

    Treats are an all-time favorite with any dog breed. Use healthy and delicious snacks to incentivize your giant breed to demonstrate positive behavior and learn, simple commands or other commands. Training Great Danes can be tough, but using a reward system helps tremendously.

    When you are working to train your Dane, make sure to keep treats with you at all times.

    As soon as your dog demonstrates a behavior that you like, give him a treat immediately. This will help him understand that he is being rewarded for going to the demonstrated act.

    Below are some of our favorite treats to use for Great Danes or any other dog breed.

    In Conclusion

    Great Danes are amazing dogs that will provide you with a lifetime of companionship. By following the tips above, you can be sure to set your Dane up for success.

    Do you have any other tips for training Great Danes? Share them in the comments below!

  • 3 Fast Tips on How to Train Your Great Dane to Walk on a Leash

    3 Fast Tips on How to Train Your Great Dane to Walk on a Leash

    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.

    How to train your Great Dane to walk on a leash

    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.

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    Get Control of Your Great Dane on a Leash

    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.

    Screen Shot 2022 03 11 at 1.24.45 PM

    “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!

  • Shock Collar for Great Dane Training

    Shock Collar for Great Dane Training

    If you are looking into a shock collar for Great Dane training, you’ve come to the right place!

    We offer modern dog training advice and can help you decide if using a shock collar on your Great Dane is going to be helpful for fixing behavioral issues.

    We are here to give you ideas and resources for E-Collar training, products, positive training, and more!

    Read on for more information about shock collar training and Great Danes!

    Shock Collar for Great Dane

    SHOCK COLLAR TRAINING and GREAT DANES

    Many people search for shock collar training resources when they are at their ‘wit’s end’ with their dog.

    Aggression, lunging, barking, pulling, digging in the trash and general stubborn nonsense are common reasons that otherwise well-meaning dog owners seek to use a shock collar on their dog!

    We understand your frustrations, we hear you, and we are here to HELP!

    At Hello Danes, we believe that shock collars are so 2001, and that E-Collars are the new, more effective and humane way to train Great Danes. 

    A properly used E-Collar can give your dog off-leash freedom and so much more.

    5

    Shock collars (especially inexpensive ones from Amazon, etc.) provide a sharp, startling shock or aversive vibration sensation that is designed specifically to hurt and punish. With shock collars, the dog is the subject of the training and may not be aware of how to avoid being shocked.

    E-Collars (in particular, the only brand we stand behind, E-Collar Technologies) provide a blunt tingling stimulation that is designed to be a positive, tactile communication. With proper E-Collar use, the dog is a participant in training and knows how to make choices that turn that stimulation on and off.

    EASY Educator collar

    WE KNOW WHAT YOU ARE THINKING

    You may be reading this and thinking ‘no way, lady. My dog is LARGE and in CHARGE and I need a way to get his attention. An E-Collar isn’t going to cut it’.

    Look, we get it! Having an out-of-control giant breed Great Dane is embarrassing and can result in injury, lawsuits and more. Training your Great Dane is extremely important! 

    Training Mistakes
    Why is Leash Training so Hard?
    5 Leash Training Tips
    Puppy Training: 5 Mistakes in Training

    Now imagine for a moment that your currently bratty Great Dane could have amazing off-leash obedience and recall, polite manners, the ability to ‘settle’ indoors (even when guests are over), and confidence (not fear, anxiety or instability).

    BELOW I’ve written two training examples, so you can learn about the difference between shock collar training and E-Collar training for your Great Dane! 

    Shock Collar for Great Dane

    SHOCK COLLAR RECALL

    The dog runs off and doesn’t listen when off leash.

    The shock collar is used to punish the dog for ignoring the recall command.

    The handler may repeat the sharp static shock or vibration until the dog comes back, often with poor body language (ears pinned, hunched, low to the ground).

    Teaching Recall with an E Collar
    From Running Away to Off Leash Freedom

    The dog learns that running from the owner is scary and may, through this process learn to stay closer because they fear what happens if they don’t.

    Additionally, the dog may learn to associate the shock or vibrate with the environment, lowering their confidence and increased anxiety and aggression (BLOAT RISK).

    What is Bloat?
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    The Scary Bloat Timeline

    E-COLLAR RECALL

    The dog is taught that the stimulation from the E-Collar (up to 1/2 mile away) means to come back.

    They are enthusiastic about it, not fearful or hurt by it, and associate the stimulation with good things.

    The stimulation feels like an ant crawling around, and the dog quickly learns that they can turn it off by running back to the handler.

    Just like leash pressure or teasing a dog with a treat until they sit!

    The E-Collar becomes a true wireless leash! 

    The dog learns that staying close and listening means good things, treats, praise and freedom. If they go too far, the E-Collar reminds them to turn and run back! They quickly learn boundaries and gain freedom; in dedicated hands, most dogs can easily be off-leash within weeks.

    This is all done, reliably, with a gentle muscle stimulation that most humans cannot even feel.

    Because the dog associates the stimulation with good things and has full control over the stimulation, the dog is an enthusiastic and willing participant. Treats, praise and play are also part of a proper E-Collar training program. Dogs that have fun training learn faster and develop stronger obedience skills!

    Shock Collar for Great Dane

    WHICH DOG WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE?

    So if you ask us if you should use a shock collar for Great Dane training, our answer will always be NO.  Shock collars cause unnecessary stress and anxiety that can increase bloat risk, reduce confidence and cause worsened training problems. It’s just not worth it. 

    But if you are interested in using an E-Collar for Great Dane training? Let’s chat!

    A properly used E-Collar is less aversive, less harmful and more effective than a long leash, no-pull harness, squirt bottle, verbal correction or head harness! 

    With some fun, simple positive training your E-Collar becomes a ‘wireless leash’, allowing you to effectively communicate with your dog (even your large stubborn one!) up to 1/2 mile away.

    IMAGINE YOUR DOG: 

    • Having insane amounts of enriching off-leash freedom (which results in better physical and mental condition, less stress and lower anxiety. All things that may reduce overall bloat risk and improve behavior).
    • Loose leash walking with calm confidence.
    • Being free from leash reactivity, an unfortunate result of the natural restriction and tension of the leash, collar or harness.
    • Dropping calmly to a down-stay while other dogs, children and people walk by.
    • Redirecting immediately away from dangerous and annoying behaviors such as fence jumping, running into the street and stealing cooked chicken bones from the counter; then running back to you with enthusiasm!
    • Calmly sitting on a ‘place’ while you greet guests or unload groceries.
    Shock Collar for Great Dane

    WHEN NOT TO USE AN E-COLLAR

    There are times and situations where the use of an E-Collar, and especially of a shock collar, is NOT appropriate. Seek the help of a professional trainer, and never use an electric collar of any kind to address the following behaviors: 

    • Addressing dog-dog, dog-human or dog-child aggression
    • Puppy biting
    • Crate frustration and separation anxiety
    • Resource guarding
    • Leash reactivity/aggression
    • Fearful, timid or anxious behaviors, especially in rescue dogs that have not had time to decompress (3+ months)
    Shock Collar for Great Dane

    Keep in mind that the majority of behavior problems are the result of boredom, frustration, anxiety, immaturity, poor socialization, pain or confusion. E-Collars are not appropriate for resolving those behaviors (including reactivity, aggression, puppy biting, resource guarding and destruction), but can be used as part of an entire training program centered around building confidence, skills and independence.

    Remember, shock collars are an outdated tool. There are better, more humane and more effective ways to train dogs, and the E-Collar can help you.

    Ready to get started with E-Collar training your Great Dane?

    Shop our selection of high-quality E-Collars from E-Collar technologies, and view our ever-growing library of E-Collar training resources.

    READ MORE:

    Find a Great Dane Rescue