HISTORY
The Great Dane breed originated most likely (as it is not known for sure) in Germany as a cross between a Mastiff and an Irish Wolfhound. As a working breed, it was bred to assist in boar hunting. Today, the breed does not have the temperament bred back then. The temperament has been bred out and they now are more likely guard dogs and always companion dogs.
HEALTH
The average life span of a giant breed is eight to 10 years. While this is a short period of time, it will be the most joyous years of your life.
Some health issues prone to this breed are:
- Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (commonly called Bloat or “G-D-V”) is a LIFE THREATENING condition which one must seek medical attention IMMEDIATELY. Time is truly the enemy here meaning this is a true EMERGENCY. Obvious signs are a physical appearance in which the animal appears to have a swollen mid-section. Other signs are lethargy, attempts to vomit without success and uncomfortableness. For detailed information on this condition, please click here.
- Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (commonly called “H-O-D”) is a bone disease that usually affects young, rapidly growing, large breed dogs. The disease produces severe lameness and pain and usually affects multiple limbs. The cause of the disease is currently unknown. For detailed information on this disease, please click here.
- Cervical Spondylomyelopathy (commonly called “C-S-M” or Wobbler Syndrome) is a spinal disease which results in a wobbly gait when walking or running due to pressure on the spinal cord in the lower part of the neck. Many of these dogs stumble when walking, and the rear legs may be affected first. Great Danes are affected usually between 1 and 3 years of age. For detailed information on this disease, please click here.
- Hip dysplasia is a malformation or a failure of the hip joints to properly develop which can lead to the loss of ability to utilize the hips. There is early onset (occurring at a young age) and later onset (occurring at an older age). Decreased activity, difficulty getting up and pain in hip joints are just a few signs to look for amongst many others. For detailed information on this disease, please click here.
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy (commonly called “D-C-M”) is a heart muscle disease where the heart is enlarged and does not function properly. Decreased exercise ability and increased breathing are a couple signs to look for amongst many others. For detailed information on this disease, please click here.
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