Great Danes are unique dogs with a striking appearance that sets them apart from other animals. Their large size, earning them the nickname “Apollo of Dogs,” is one of the first things people notice about them. However, there are many other fascinating facts about this breed, all of which contribute to their greatness.
1. The Great Dane is Not From Denmark
Despite their name, Great Danes have little to do with Denmark. The name “Great Dane” was given by French scientist Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte of Buffon. He observed a dog similar to the German boarhound during his travels in Denmark. In Germany, the breed is known as the Deutsche Dogge, or German Dog.
2. Great Danes Once Served as Boar-Hunting Dogs
Great Danes are a cross between an Irish Wolfhound and an old English Mastiff. Originally, they were used as boar-hunting dogs and were known for their agility and ferocity. Although the modern Great Dane has a gentler disposition, its ancestors may have been influenced by ancient Egyptian dogs.
3. Great Danes are Gentle Giants
Despite their history as aggressive hunting dogs, Great Danes have been transformed into lovable, laid-back companions. In the 1700s, the German aristocracy selectively bred the aggressive traits out of the breed. This resulted in the affectionate nature of today’s Great Danes.
4. A Great Dane Served in the Navy
A Great Dane named “Just Nuisance” became famous for befriending sailors from the Royal Navy in South Africa. He was eventually enlisted in the Navy and received full military honors upon his passing.
5. Great Danes are Record Breakers
Known for their impressive size, Great Danes can reach a height of 34 inches and weigh up to 200 pounds. The world’s tallest dog, Zeus, stood at 44 inches tall.
6. Great Danes are Celebrities
Great Danes have inspired numerous fictional dogs in popular culture. These include Astro from The Jetsons. Another example is Marmaduke, who was featured in a comic strip and film.
7. A Great Dane was Chosen as Scooby-Doo for a Reason
The choice of a Great Dane as the character Scooby-Doo is linked to the breed’s history. Historically, they were associated with warding off ghosts. They were also known for warding off evil spirits. This adds an interesting layer to the selection of the breed for the popular cartoon character.
8. Great Danes Make Excellent Guard Dogs
Great Danes have a sweet nature, making them excellent house pets. They are calm around children but can be clumsy due to their unawareness of their strength. Despite their gentle nature, Great Danes are excellent security dogs. They are fiercely protective of their family and home. They can intimidate intruders with their massive bodies.
9. One Great Dane was Awarded Two Blue Cross Medals
In 1941, Juliana, the Great Dane, was awakened by a bomb that dropped near her home. Her response was quite unusual as she diffused the bomb by urinating on it, earning her first medal. Three years later, she received her second medal for alerting authorities to a fire in her owner’s shoe store.
10. Great Danes and Goats can be Friends
In 2010, a goat and a Great Dane were seen together near a chapel in Dallas. The goat had unbolted the gate to his house, leading the Great Dane out as well. The two animals formed an inseparable trio with a three-legged yellow lab named Lucky. They captured the hearts of many Americans. These animals were eventually adopted by a lovely couple, Norman and Sandy Williams.
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