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Male vs. Female Great Dane: Which is Right For My Family?

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Male and female Great Danes have a lot in common, but there are some key differences that pet owners should be aware of.

Firstly, male and female Great Danes can vary in size, personality and physical appearance.

Ultimately, both male and female Great Danes make wonderful pets if given proper training, socialization and exercise. They will bring love and joy into your life no matter their gender! However, it is important to know the differences between a female Great Dane and male Great Dane before bringing one home to become a new family member.

1

Male vs. Female Great Dane Size

Male dogs, in general, are much larger than female dogs. Similarly in large dogs like Great Danes, a male Great Dane will generally be larger than a female Great Dane, with males typically standing at least 30 inches tall and weighing between 140-200 pounds while females are usually 28-32 inches tall and weigh from 130 to 180 pounds.

Male vs Female Great Dane Weight and Height

Your Great Dane puppy will not be teeny tiny forever!

A Great Dane is one of the biggest dog breeds out there and males tend to be bigger than females (and other pets!)

A female Great Dane can grow, on average, up to 130-180 pounds (American Kennel Club) and 30 inches tall, while a male Great Dane can reach 140-200 pounds and 32 inches tall when fully grown.

If you have a smaller space, it may be wise to consider the slightly smaller size of Female Great Danes.

Don’t be tricked, though, neither male and female Great Danes are small dogs, so make sure you are positive that bringing this dog breed home as a family member is right for you and that they will fit into your family nicely.

Great Danes Breed Standard in the Show Dog World: Why Does It Matter?

Like all dog breeds, Great Danes have a breed standard that should be upheld by anyone who is producing Great Danes.

The breed standard is not just personal preference, but rather an agreement on the ideal physical and temperamental features of this breed.

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Male vs. Female Great Dane Conformation

When it comes to male and female Great Danes, the standard is slightly different. For example, a male Great Dane should have a more powerful head than a female while females should have well-rounded hindquarters compared to males.

While these slight differences may impact your specific Great Dane puppy, you should find a breeder experienced in giant dogs so that your Great Dane can reach its full potential, regardless of gender.

BACKYARD BREEDER
WHAT MAKES A BREEDER GOOD?
BREED STANDARD

Male vs. Female Great Dane Temperament

It’s important to remember that personality is unique for each individual dog so generalizations about any dog’s temperament is not true for all dogs.

However, there are some rules of thumb that can be applied for the personality of a male vs. female Great Dane dog that could help future Great Dane owners decide which gender would work better for their family.

Male Dogs / Male Great Danes Temperament in Large and Giant Breeds

Male Great Danes tend to be the goofier, sillier, and more laid back gender of Great Dane.

Male Great Danes are typically aloof and loyal, often preferring to spend time with their owners in a calmer and peaceful manner.

Male giant breed dogs may be more dominant in their interactions with other dogs, yet still very loving toward their humans.

Female Dogs / Female Great Danes Temperament in Large and Giant Breeds

In contrast, female Great Danes tend to be more protective, alert and active than male counterpart.

Large and Giant Breeds and Socialization

No matter what gender of giant breed dog you get, you should realize that your puppy will soon grow into an adult Great Dane.

Generally speaking, if you wouldn’t want your 120+ lb adult dogs practicing the behavior, don’t let your playful pup do it either.

No matter male vs. female, your dog’s great size makes it increasingly important to do lots of obedience training, crate training, and socialization with positive reinforcement in order to produce a well adjusted dog.

Both male and female Great Dane socialization matters from a young age.

Male vs. Female Great Dane Health Issues

Large and giant breed dogs often come with their own unique health concerns, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, luxating patellas, and bloat.

These conditions can be painful and debilitating, so it is important to consult a veterinarian before acquiring one of these breeds.

Additionally, due to their size and weight, large and giant breed dogs need more exercise than smaller breeds to stay healthy. It is also important to provide them with the proper nutrition for their size in order to maintain a healthy weight.

While there are some risks associated with owning a large or giant breed dog, the rewards of having such an amazing companion far outweighs any potential drawbacks.

Large and Giant Breeds Most Common Health Problems

The top ten health problems in Great Danes and other giant dog breed are:

  1. Elbow and hip dysplasia/ Luxating patellas
  2. Cancer
  3. Bloat
  4. Hypothyroidism
  5. Cardiomyopathy
  6. Osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD)
  7. Gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV)
  8. Entropion/Ectropion
  9. Panosteitis/Panoostitis
  10. Allergies

If you are bringing home a great dane puppy, it is not only important to research the difference between a male and female Great Dane, but also research the possible health conditions that could impact your gentle giant.

Genetic Health Conditions and Finding a Reputable Breeder

Bringing home both female Great Danes or male Great Danes requires a responsibility to intensely research the dog breed as well as the breeder.

Male vs. Female Great Dane

OFA Health Testing

When considering a dog breeder, it is essential to select one who health tests their dogs via the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).

OFA testing evaluates the health of each dog to ensure that they are free from inherited conditions that could lead to discomfort and long-term health issues for their puppies.

OFA ensures that breeders are held accountable for producing healthy pups, as well as providing peace of mind knowing that the parents of your pup have been tested and certified as healthy. OFA testing provides evidence-based information so you can make an informed decision when choosing a puppy.

An OFA certified breeder is always the best option when looking for any Great Dane dog as well-bred dogs will make excellent family dogs.

Male vs. Female Great Dane and Costs

Great Danes can be a costly addition to the family, with buying prices ranging from $600 to over $4,000 for show quality puppies.

This price can increase if you are looking for a puppy from an experienced breeder. Owning and caring for a Great Dane also requires ongoing financial commitment.

Food, vaccinations, vet bills, dog supplies and toys should all be taken into consideration when purchasing your pup. Depending on where you live, pet insurance may also be an option to protect yourself against unexpected expenses.

Although the cost of owning a Great Dane is significant, the payoff of having such a loyal and loving friend is priceless!

Female Great Dane Specific Costs

Owning a female specific Great Dane can come with additional costs. Spaying or ‘fixing’ the dog is usually necessary, though this should be done in consultation with your vet as to when and how it should be completed. Additionally, as female Great Danes often suffer from a higher risk of mammary tumors or pyometra, and it is important to keep their hormones regulated and healthy, which comes with an expense.

Male Great Dane Costs

A male Great Dane may require additional costs to neuter or ‘fix’ the dog, though again this should be discussed with your vet. Male Great Danes may also be at a higher risk for testicular cancer and other medical conditions related to their testosterone levels. It is important to keep these in check and consult with your vet regularly for prevention of health issues.

Is a Great Dane the Right Dog Breed for My Family?

Great Danes are unlike other animals.

They are loyal and loving companions, who make wonderful additions to any family home.

If you have the determination to provide a Great Dane with the care, love and attention they need, then this could be the perfect dog breed for you. As long as you are prepared for its large size and energy levels, along with researching health problems common in these breeds, there won’t be a better dog for you!

Size, Personality, and Physical Differences Between a Female Great Dane and a Male Great Dane

Overall, when considering adopting a Great Dane it is important to understand the size, personality and physical differences between male and female dogs. This will help you make an informed decision on which gender would best match your family’s lifestyle.

No matter which gender of Great Dane you choose, you will be rewarded with unconditional love and devotion. The rewards of having such an amazing companion far outweighs any potential drawbacks.

A Good Great Dane Dog Breeder and the Costs of a Great Dane

Good research is key when looking for a reputable breeder, and to ensure that your pup has been tested for any genetic health conditions.

It’s also important to consider the costs associated with owning a Great Dane, both upfront and ongoing expenses. With dedication and love, you and your pup will form a bond that is sure to last a lifetime.

So if you’re ready for the challenge, start researching and get ready to welcome a beautiful Great Dane into your life!

READ MORE: (Colors of Great Danes)

Blue Great Danes
Mantle Great Danes
14 Exciting Things about Black Great Danes
Double Merle Great Danes
Miniature Great Danes: The Pocket Size Version
Colors of Great Danes
Harlequin Great Danes
White Great Danes
Brindle Great Danes
Fawn Great Danes

  1. Black (Black Great Danes)
  2. Mantle (Mantle Great Danes)
  3. Harlequin (Harlequin Great Danes)
  4. Fawn (FAWN GREAT DANES)
  5. Brindle (BRINDLE GREAT DANES)
  6. Blue (Blue Great Danes)

Off standard colors include Double Merle Great Danes, which are White Great Danes with predisposed health conditions. Off standard colors that are not approved to be in the show ring are typically bred without health testing. (OFF STANDARD GREAT DANES)

Read more about the colors of Great Danes here.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

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