Enjoy this guide and overview for new and existing owners of Great Danoodles.

The Great Danoodle is a majestic blend of the regal Great Dane and the intelligent Poodle.

History of Great Danoodle Dogs

To understand this delightful designer breed, we must first look at the backgrounds of its parent breeds.

Originally known as the “German Boarhound,” the Great Dane has a lineage tracing back to ancient times. These giants were used for hunting wild boars in Germany, a task that required strength and bravery. Over the centuries, they evolved into the graceful, gentle giants we know today. Great Danes earned their place as beloved companions in European royal courts and later around the world.

Poodles were initially bred as water retrievers, excelling at retrieving waterfowl. Their distinctive curly coats served a practical purpose, protecting them from the elements while allowing them to move freely in the water.

The concept of designer dogs, like the Great Danoodle, emerged in the late 20th century, primarily to combine the best traits of different breeds. In the case of the Great Danoodle, breeders aimed to infuse the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle with the majestic stature and gentle demeanor of the Great Dane.

This unique combination wasn’t just about physical attributes. The intention was to create a breed that could be both a loyal family companion and a gentle giant, suitable for various living environments. Through careful breeding, the Great Danoodle was born, offering a harmonious blend of its parent breeds’ characteristics.

Today, the Great Danoodle stands as a testament to the beauty of mixing two incredible breeds, bringing together history, elegance, and intelligence in one furry package. In the following sections, we’ll explore more about their appearance, temperament, care, and why they make excellent additions to loving homes.

Selecting a Great Danoodle Dog

Be prepared for the size of a Great Danoodle. They can inherit the Great Dane’s imposing stature, so make sure you have ample space at home to accommodate their size and movement.

Despite their size, Great Danoodles still need exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks and playtime are essential, but avoid strenuous exercise when they are puppies to protect their growing joints.

Early socialization is crucial for Great Danoodles. Expose them to various people, animals, and environments to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted and friendly companions.

Great Danoodles are intelligent dogs and thrive on mental stimulation. Incorporate training sessions and puzzle toys into their daily routine to keep their minds active.

Due to their size, Great Danoodles have unique dietary needs. Consult with your vet to determine the right diet for your individual dog, especially when they are puppies.

Despite their imposing appearance, Great Danoodles are known for their loving and gentle nature. They are often referred to as “gentle giants” for a reason. Shower them with love, and they will return it tenfold.

Size and Lifespan of Great Danoodle Dogs

Great Danoodles inherit their size from their Great Dane parent. On average, they stand between 24 and 32 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 75 and 100 pounds or more. Keep in mind that individual variations can occur, so some may be smaller or larger.

Their lifespan is about 8 to 13 years with good care and maintenance.

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Health and Maintenance of Great Danoodle Dogs

Health and Care Tips

• Hip Dysplasia Awareness: Great Danoodles are susceptible to hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly. To mitigate this risk, ensure your puppy comes from reputable breeders who screen for this condition. Also, maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the joints.
• Bloat Prevention: Like their Great Dane parent, Great Danoodles can be prone to bloating (gastric torsion). To reduce the risk, feed them smaller, more frequent meals, and avoid vigorous exercise right after eating. Elevated food dishes can also help.
• Dental Care: Due to their size, dental issues can arise. Brush your Great Danoodle’s teeth regularly to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Dental chews and toys can also promote oral health.
• Exercise Routine: While moderate exercise is essential, avoid overexertion, especially during the puppy stage. This helps protect their developing joints.
• Regular Vet Check-ups: Schedule routine check-ups with your veterinarian to catch any potential health issues early. Vaccinations, heartworm prevention, and flea and tick control are vital aspects of their healthcare.
• Nutrition Tailored to Size: Consult with your vet to determine the best diet for your Great Danoodle’s size and age. Ensure they receive a balanced diet to maintain proper weight and overall health.

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Personality and Behavioral Traits of Great Danoodle Dogs

Great Danoodles inherit a captivating blend of traits from their parent breeds, making them exceptional companions.

• Gentle Giants: Like the Great Dane, they are known for their gentle nature. They are affectionate and often form strong bonds with their families, making them great choices for families with children.
• Intelligent and Trainable: With Poodle genes, Great Danoodles are highly intelligent and eager to please. This makes them relatively easy to train, and they excel in obedience training.
• Social Butterflies: They tend to be social dogs, getting along well with other dogs and pets. Proper socialization from a young age is essential to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted.
• Watchful Guardians: Great Danoodles, with their imposing size, can be excellent watchdogs. They are alert and will bark to alert you of any unusual activity.
• Adaptable: While they appreciate exercise, Great Danoodles can adapt to various living environments, including apartments, as long as their exercise needs are met.
• Family-Oriented: They thrive in a family setting and enjoy being part of the action. They may not do well if left alone for long periods, as they can develop separation anxiety.
• Age and Play: Their playful nature makes them great companions for children. However, their size means supervision is crucial during play to prevent accidental injuries.
• Moderate Energy Levels: Great Danoodles have moderate energy levels, meaning they are content with daily walks and playtime but won’t demand excessive exercise.

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Cost to Purchase and Annual Costs of Owning a Great Danoodle

On average, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 or more for a Great Danoodle puppy from a reputable breeder.

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The annual cost of owning a Great Danoodle can vary widely but is estimated to be between $1,500 and $3,000 or more. This estimate includes food, vet visits, grooming, training, and other routine expenses.

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Nutrition and Diet for Great Danoodle Dogs

Feeding your Great Danoodle a balanced and appropriate diet is crucial to their overall health and well-being. Due to their size and potential for certain health issues, it’s essential to tailor their diet to their specific needs.

1. Age-Appropriate Feeding:

• Puppy Stage: During their puppy stage, which lasts up to 12 months, Great Danoodles require a diet rich in nutrients to support their growth and development. Choose a high-quality puppy food formulated for large breeds to ensure proper bone and joint development. Feeding them multiple small meals a day can help prevent bloating, a condition to which large dogs are prone.
• Adult Stage: Once they reach adulthood, typically around 12 to 18 months, you can transition to adult dog food. Look for formulas designed for large breeds to support their joint health and maintain an appropriate weight.
• Senior Stage: As your Great Danoodle enters their senior years (usually around 7 to 8 years), consider switching to a senior dog food. These formulas are lower in calories to help prevent obesity, which is essential for a breed prone to joint issues.

2. Protein and Fat Levels:

• Opt for dog foods with moderate protein levels, around 20–24% protein, and a moderate fat content of approximately 10–14%. This balance helps maintain their lean muscle mass while preventing excessive weight gain.

3. Joint Health Supplements:

• Great Danoodles are susceptible to joint issues like hip dysplasia. To support joint health, consider foods containing glucosamine and chondroitin or discuss supplement options with your veterinarian.

4. Avoid Overfeeding:

• Be cautious not to overfeed your Great Danoodle, as obesity can exacerbate joint problems. Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food label, and monitor their weight to make adjustments as needed.

5. Fresh Water:

• Ensure your Great Danoodle has access to fresh water at all times, especially during mealtime and after exercise.

6. Avoid Toxic Foods:

• Certain human foods are toxic to dogs, including chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic. Keep these foods out of reach, as they can be harmful or even fatal.

7. Regular Feeding Schedule:

• Establish a consistent feeding schedule for your Great Danoodle. This routine helps with digestion and can also be useful for potty training.

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Remember that maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for the overall well-being of your Great Danoodle. Be mindful of portion sizes, provide them with regular exercise, and consult with your veterinarian to ensure they receive the best possible nutrition and dietary care throughout their lives.

Grooming a Great Danoodle Dog

Grooming your Great Danoodle is essential to keeping them looking and feeling their best. Their appearance can vary depending on which parent’s genes dominate, but they typically have a wavy or curly coat that is low-shedding. Here’s what you need to know about grooming your Great Danoodle:

Coat Colors: Great Danoodles can come in various coat colors, including black, white, cream, apricot, chocolate, and more. The coat color often depends on the poodle’s parent’s genetics.

Grooming Routine:

• Brushing: While Great Danoodles have low-shedding coats, regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy. Aim to brush them at least two to three times a week.
• Bathing: Bathe your Great Danoodle as needed, typically every 6 to 8 weeks or when they get dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo to avoid skin irritation.
• Ear Care: Check their ears regularly for signs of infection, such as redness, odor, or excessive wax buildup. Clean their ears as needed with a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner.
• Eye Care: Keep an eye on their eyes for any discharge or redness, which could indicate an issue. Use a damp cloth to gently clean around their eyes, if necessary.
• Nail Care: Trim their nails regularly to prevent them from getting too long and causing discomfort or potential joint issues. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, consider a professional groomer or veterinarian.

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