Great Dane

Germany in the 1900s (not Denmark) is where and when breeders fine-tuned our breed. We're not so massive as the mastiffs in my deep background -- but more slender and graceful like the Greyhound -- and taller than the look-alike dogs depicted in Egyptian monuments and Chinese inscriptions thousands of years B.C. My Middle Age ancestors hunted in packs for wolves, bear and boar. These days I'm happy to hunt for a space by the fireplace and some friendly kids to snuggle with. Make that lots of space -- a Great Dane measures 31 inches at the shoulder and weighs up to 155 pounds.

• Affectionate, gentle family friend
• Aloof and elegant
• Calm as a clam
• Confident and self-assured
• Courageous canine
• Even-tempered, good-natured

• Intelligent and ready to learn
• Loves kids and vice versa
• Perfect protector
• Caters to country, tolerates town
• Ready to romp
• Steadfast and strong
• Sweet disposition
• Training and socialization must start early
• Training must be firm, patient, consistent

I may be a near-great puppy now but I'll grow up fast, so I need you to start my obedience training early (puppy kindergarten should be a riot) and keep the training firm but gentle, patient and consistent. The same goes for my socialization (to other animals of all kinds and sizes) and children of all ages. I know I'll love 'em. But first I have to get to know them. About my daily exercise -- I'll need some but don't overdo it during puppyhood when my bones and muscles are growing fast. We don't want to do lasting harm to the Great One.

Possible heart defects, wobbler's syndrome, deafness, osteochondritis dissecans, metabolic bone disease, and osteosarcoma.