Working · Rank #18 Most Popular Dog Breed
Great Dane
The Great Dane is one of the world's tallest dog breeds, originating in Germany where it was developed to hunt wild boar. Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are gentle, friendly, and affectionate — often described as 'gentle giants.' They carry a regal appearance and calm demeanor that makes them beloved family companions. The breed was officially recognized by the AKC in 1887.
Ideal Weight
45-90 kg
Height
71-81 cm
Activity Level
Moderate (Daily Walks)
Life Expectancy
7-10 yrs
Feeding Guide
Great Danes are highly susceptible to bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), so they must always be fed two or three small meals per day rather than one large meal. Exercise before and after meals should be strictly avoided. A diet formulated for large/giant breeds is important to support joint health and controlled growth in puppies.
Water Needs
Great Danes need a consistent supply of fresh water due to their large body mass; hydration is especially important after any physical activity.
Exercise Guide
Great Danes need moderate daily exercise — around 30–60 minutes of walking or gentle play. High-impact exercise should be limited, especially in puppies, to protect developing joints and reduce the risk of orthopedic issues.
Common Health Issues in Great Danes
- Bloat (GDV)
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy
- Hip Dysplasia
- Osteosarcoma
- Wobbler Syndrome
These are conditions commonly associated with the breed, not a diagnosis for your individual pet.
Great Dane Calorie Calculator
Estimated Daily Calories
2637 kcal
7.5
Cups / day
904
Grams / day
Based on a generic 350 kcal/cup food. Use the full Calorie Calculator to enter your food's exact calorie density.
Great Dane FAQs
How much should I feed a Great Dane?
Great Danes are highly susceptible to bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), so they must always be fed two or three small meals per day rather than one large meal. Exercise before and after meals should be strictly avoided. A diet formulated for large/giant breeds is important to support joint health and controlled growth in puppies. For a personalized daily calorie and portion estimate based on your Great Dane's exact weight, age, and activity level, use the calculator above or our full Calorie Calculator.
How much exercise does a Great Dane need?
Great Danes generally have moderate exercise needs. Great Danes need moderate daily exercise — around 30–60 minutes of walking or gentle play. High-impact exercise should be limited, especially in puppies, to protect developing joints and reduce the risk of orthopedic issues.
How much water does a Great Dane need?
Great Danes need a consistent supply of fresh water due to their large body mass; hydration is especially important after any physical activity. As a general guideline, most dogs need roughly 50-60 ml of water per kg of body weight daily -- use our Water Intake Calculator for an estimate based on your pet's exact weight.
What health issues are common in Great Danes?
Great Danes are commonly associated with Bloat (GDV), Dilated Cardiomyopathy, Hip Dysplasia, Osteosarcoma, and Wobbler Syndrome. This is general educational information, not a diagnosis -- regular veterinary checkups are the best way to catch and manage breed-related conditions early.
How big does a Great Dane get?
A fully grown Great Dane typically weighs 45.0-90.0 kg (99-198 lbs) and stands about 71-81 cm (28-32 in) tall at the shoulder, with a typical life expectancy of 7-10 years.
Medical Disclaimer
This tool provides general, educational estimates and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Breed-based estimates for the Great Dane are general guidance and vary by individual dog or cat. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's specific health needs before making changes to their diet, water intake, or care routine.
Related Dog Breeds
Compare the Great Dane to Another Breed
From the Blog
The Real Monthly Cost of Owning a Dog: Food, Vet, and Everything Else
A realistic breakdown of what dogs actually cost month to month, beyond just food — including vet care, prevention, and the expenses new owners tend to underestimate.
Great Dane Feeding Guide
Great Danes are gentle giants with very specific feeding needs — including a strict multi-meal schedule to reduce life-threatening bloat risk. This guide covers daily portions, life-stage adjustments, and breed-specific quirks.
Great Dane Ideal Weight Guide
Great Danes are the tallest dog breed, and their healthy weight range is enormous — 45 to 90 kg (99–198 lbs). Learn how to assess body condition on a deep-chested giant and spot the early signs of overweight.
Great Dane Growth Chart: What to Expect
Great Danes grow faster and for longer than most breeds, typically reaching full size between 18 and 24 months. Learn what healthy growth looks like at each stage and why controlled growth is critical for this giant breed.
How Many Calories Should a Great Dane Eat?
Great Danes need more calories than most breeds simply due to their size, but their moderate activity level means they don't require as much as you might expect. Here's how to estimate daily needs and avoid overfeeding.
Great Dane Puppy Guide
Raising a Great Dane puppy requires a careful approach to nutrition and exercise that differs meaningfully from other breeds. This guide covers feeding, growth milestones, and the key decisions that protect joint health from day one.
Great Dane Senior Care Guide
Great Danes are considered senior at around 6–7 years due to their giant-breed lifespan of 7–10 years. Learn how to adjust feeding, exercise, and health monitoring as your gentle giant ages.
More Tools
Calorie Calculator
Full calorie calculator with custom food density.
Weight Checker
Check if your Great Dane is at a healthy weight.
Body Condition Score Calculator
Assess your Great Dane's body condition with a simple visual score.
Dog Age Calculator
Convert your Great Dane's age into human years.
Water Intake Calculator
Estimate how much water your Great Dane needs daily.
All Dog Breeds
Browse the top 50 dog breeds.