GIANT Among Men
A combination of size, intelligence, loyalty, and gentle nature make the Great Dane a wonderful breed of canine. Often referred to as the “Apollo of Dogs” the origins of the breed date back to ancient Greece. Coins from the era depict an animal that bears a striking resemblance to the Great Dane that we see today. Combined with a gentle nature, Great Dane training can result in a well-behaved and loving addition to any family. While some of the first recorded images of a similar breed of dog date back to Ancient Greece, there are lesser-known drawings of the Great Dane found on Egyptian monuments. The breed as we know it today originated in Germany as a result of cross breeding the English Mastiff and the Irish wolfhound.
Though the name of the breed would imply that it originated in Denmark, this is not the case. The Dane aspect of the name came as a result of political unrest. During the time in which the breed was gaining notice, the German empire of old was in the process of unification. The political unrest that this caused lead Anglo Saxon and French speaking cultures to refer to the German Mastiff as Great Dane. Originally bred for its hunting abilities, the Great Dane training regiment caters to their nature.
In contrast to the breed’s large size and imposing nature, the dogs in actuality have a friendly nature; often referred to as a gentle giant. They are well disposed to other dogs, non-canine pets, as well as children in the household. Although, it would be wise to not leave the animal unsupervised when young children are around. Contrary to the animal’s appearance, the Great Dane training was designed to aid the animal in guarding the homestead as well as hunting wild boars. Though the modern version of the breed will not be asked to hunt down the wild boar, the dogs require an above average amount of exercise. As with most breeds, the Great Dane has its share of health concerns. Some of the health issues are hip dysphasia, stomach twisting, and the possibility of a heart defect. Given proper care, exercise, and a loving home a Great Dane can live between twelve and fourteen years.
