Great Dane Dog BreedingFind the Perfect Match

Great Dane breeding guide comprehensive information. Apollo of Dogs breeding. Giant breed dog breeding challenges. CRITICAL HEALTH ALERTS: Bloat (GDV) is the number one killer of Great Danes - can be fatal within hours. 37% of Great Danes will experience bloat. Gastropexy surgery is highly recommended for all breeding Great Danes. Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) causes sudden death in Great Danes. Annual cardiac screening by board-certified cardiologist mandatory. Great Dane lifespan only 7-10 years. Many die by age 6-8. Heartbreak breed due to short lifespan. Bone cancer (osteosarcoma) extremely common. Wobbler syndrome affects spine and neck. BREEDING WARNINGS: Harlequin x Harlequin produces dead white puppies. Merle x Merle is LETHAL - produces blind and deaf puppies. Never breed double merle Great Danes. Color genetics complex - study before breeding. Size facts: Males 140-175 lbs, 30-32+ inches tall. Females 110-140 lbs, 28-30+ inches tall. World's tallest dog breed. Everything XXL size - food 8-10 cups daily, giant vet bills, huge space requirements. Growth concerns: Great Danes grow from 1 lb to 100+ lbs in first year. Rapid growth causes HOD (Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy). Panosteitis (growing pains) common. Requires specific large breed puppy food to prevent developmental diseases. Health testing requirements: Hip dysplasia screening (OFA or PennHIP) mandatory. Cardiac evaluation by cardiologist mandatory. Thyroid testing recommended. Eye examination (CERF/OFA) recommended. Elbow dysplasia screening optional but advised. Breeding age: Wait until 2.5-3 years for full maturity. Females breeding window 2.5-5 years only. Males can breed 2.5-6 years. Limited breeding opportunities due to short lifespan. Pregnancy and whelping: Litters typically 8-10 puppies. C-sections common due to large puppy size. Dystocia (difficult birth) risk high. Must have emergency vet on standby. Breeding costs extremely high. Temperament: Gentle giants despite intimidating size. Excellent with children but size creates accidental injury risk. Requires early socialization due to giant size. Lean on people they love - endearing but dangerous for elderly. Great Dane breed standard important for breeding. Elegant appearance despite massive size. Should never appear clumsy or coarse. Noble bearing and majestic presence essential breed traits. Cost reality: Food costs $100-200/month. Vet bills higher due to giant size. Everything costs more - medication dosed by weight. Emergency bloat surgery $5000-8000. Must have financial resources for giant breed ownership. Space requirements: Not apartment suitable despite moderate exercise needs. Tail at coffee table height - Dane-proof home required. Need vehicle large enough for giant dog. XXL everything - beds, crates, bowls. Great Dane breeding ethics: Screen homes carefully for giant breed experience. Educate about short lifespan heartbreak. Require gastropexy agreement. Provide 24/7 bloat emergency information. Never breed for extreme size - health over height. Common genetic issues: von Willebrand's disease (bleeding disorder). Hypothyroidism common. Progressive retinal atrophy in some lines. Megaesophagus risk. Addison's disease occurs. Research pedigrees for cancer history. Great Dane colors: Fawn, brindle, black, blue, harlequin, mantle are standard. Merle controversial - not recognized by all clubs. White Great Danes often deaf. Color breeding requires genetic knowledge to avoid defects. Exercise and breeding: Moderate exercise only - joint stress concerns. No forced exercise until 18 months - growth plates open. Swimming excellent low-impact exercise. Avoid stairs during growth period. Nutrition for breeding: Large breed specific food essential. Calcium/phosphorus ratio critical for proper growth. Slow growth prevents developmental issues. Multiple small meals prevent bloat. Elevated feeders controversial. Great Dane breeding preservation important due to health challenges. Ethical breeders focus on health over size. Longevity breeding programs selecting for longer lifespans. Health testing non-negotiable for preservation. Petmeetly connects Great Dane breeders worldwide. Find health-tested Great Dane studs. Connect with ethical Great Dane breeders. Great Dane breeding partners in United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, India. Responsible Great Dane breeding network. Verified Great Dane breeders committed to health testing.