Great Danes are notorious for their size. These big guys can’t help but turn heads at the dog park, on the street, or wherever else you choose to show them off. But, like all dogs, Great Danes come from humble (and adorable!) beginnings. Great Dane puppies are just as sweet, cuddly, and rolly-polly as any other breed. And from their smallest to their tallest moments, Great Danes need someone with a great heart in order to get the proper care they need.
Personality Of Great Dane Puppies
The most important factor when puppy hunting is to make sure a dog’s personality meshes well with your own. If his needs don’t fit with your lifestyle, it’s going to be a lot harder for your Great Dane puppy to thrive. Here are some general character traits for Great Dane puppies and adults that you should be aware of:
Gentle and protective – Great Danes are generally gentle and affectionate by nature, but they can sometimes show their tough side when they feel the need to protect their family.
Size hazard – Even from a young age, Great Dane puppies can knock a toddler over. If you do have small children in the family it’s important to train Great Dane puppies to play carefully.
Fenced yard – Great Danes love exploring and running so if you have a yard for them to play in, a fence is a must to keep your pup safe. Great Dane puppies also enjoy digging, so you may want to keep that in mind when it comes to outside play.
Indoor dog – Great Dane puppies are extremely loving and sensitive and thrive best when allowed inside with the family. While dog-proofing the house may be a daunting task for such a big dog, it’s an important step for Great Dane care. (1)
General Great Dane Care
Everyone loves puppy playtime, but puppy care is much more than just playing fetch in the park. Caring for Great Dane puppies takes hard work and dedication. Using the tips below will help you and your Great Dane on his growing journey.
Feeding Your Great Dane Puppy
Because Great Dane puppies grow so quickly, their diet is especially important. In order to develop at the healthy rate he’s meant to, your Great Dane puppy will need a high-quality, protein based diet. Your every-day commercial kibble or even a regular puppy food really isn’t going to do the trick.
A great option for Great Dane puppies is raw dog food. Because the food hasn’t been cooked at high temperatures it maintains the nutrients that your Great Dane puppy needs to live a healthy lifestyle and grow as rapidly as he should. Raw dog foods can also help improve your little pup’s digestion, teeth and gum health, immune system, vitality, and overall behavior.
Similar to other puppies, you should start Great Danes on three meals a day until about 6 months of age. After that, two meals a day will do the trick. Also, don’t forget to give him plenty of water, and change it at least once a day. (2)
Training Tips For Great Dane Puppies
Puppy training is an important part of doggie care if you want to ensure that your dog is safe and well-behaved. Start training your pup as early as possible by teaching him simple commands, socializing with both people and other dogs, and enrolling him in a puppy kindergarten class. As Great Dane puppies quickly grow into giant dogs, it’s crucial that you teach your Great Dane not to jump up on people. It may be cute when he’s small, but it becomes incredibly dangerous as he gets older. (2)
Coat Care For Great Dane Puppies
Great Danes may not have the fuzziest or furriest coat, but they are avid shedders. However, with consistent brushing, you can easily keep it under control. Teaching Great Dane puppies to enjoy grooming time will make this process much easier for you in the long run. (2)
Room To Grow
Great Dane puppies require lots of time and energy, but they are loads of fun. These little guys are just adorable furballs with big dreams, big hearts, and, with time, big everything else. And with patience, dedication, and lots of love you just might find yourself growing right along with them. For more information on Great Danes, check out our Ultimate Guide To Caring For My Great Dane.