One of the facts you may already know is that the Great Dane or German mastiff or Deutsche dogge as what they call it in Germany is one of the tallest canine breeds in the world. Some people would be utterly amazed as they would see such kind of canine on the streets walking along beside with their master because of the "huge" physical features of the dog. Well, if you are thinking about having this kind of dog breed as your pet at home, here are the other facts you may want to know to help you decide.

History of the Great Dane:

According to canine experts and historians, the Great Dane's origin was a combined breed between two canine breeds - the Irish wolfhound and old English mastiff. Bear in mind, these two types of dog breeds were already being used as hunting dogs and even war dogs and this is where the German mastiff got its genetic traits.

Now in Germany during the 13th century, this breed of dog was indeed helpful in hunting wild boars and obviously, it's because of their natural hunting skills. In Chicago year 1889, the Great Dane Club of America was established since the popularity of this kind of canine breed in America drastically increased.

Generally, they are friendly and affectionate dogs. They can also be your guards on your home. So if you want to know more about this breed of canine, continue reading the additional information below.

Breed Characteristics:

Generally, German mastiffs would grow up to 2 feet 10 inches (at the shoulder). When it comes to their weight, the maximum is 200 lbs. but for females, up to 115 lbs. As for their life span, they would live 7 - 10 years but some may live up to 13 years.

Bear in mind, such breed of dogs have a moderate level of energy. Hence, they are not that very playful. However, they are very friendly towards kids and even to strangers and to other dogs and animals. Regarding their protectiveness, it can be considered as moderate. On the other hand, they are quite easy to train.

Conversely, when it comes to their adaptability, you may want to make sure that your place would have a spacious area and the environment is just right for them to easily adapt since they have a high sensitivity level wherein they would easily get stressed and temperamental.

Health and Grooming:

When it comes to grooming, it's not that hard and costly (you don't have to spend money to let them be groomed at pet grooming spas) on your part since all you need to do is to brush and comb the dog since they don't shred that much but bathing them can prove more effort on your part since they are huge. German mastiff's drool a lot so prepare a dry cleaning cloth or mop.

Regarding their health, you need to be mindful since they may have a high risk of having some health problems such as hip dysplasia, cardiomyopathy just to name a few. Hence, proper diet should be provided and regular visit to the vet is advised for the canine to be healthy and fit.

As a final insight about the Great Dane, they are surely friendly, loyal and strong. Although they can be intimidating for some, they do make good pets and they can also protect you as well. So if you are deciding to have a Great Dane as your companion, learn the right information on how you would take care of them and if they are fit to reside within your living environment.