The Great Dane was developed in Germany to hunt wild boars.
The earliest written description of a dog resembling the breed may be found in Chinese literature of 1121 B.C. (an article by Dr. G. Ciaburri, Great Dane Club of Italy publication, 1929).
The name of the breed (in the English language) is a translation of an old French designation, grand Danios, meaning “Big Danish.” This was only one of a half dozen names which had been used for centuries in France. Why the English adopted the name “Great Dane” from the French is a mystery.
In 1891 the Great Dane Club of Germany adopted a precise standard, or official description of the ideal specimen.
The Great Dane is often referred to as the king of dogs. By looking at him, it is easy to see why. A giant, dignified dog of sweet and gentle nature but also of mighty power, the Great Dane is an old breed. Because he is large, he needs a lot of space and exercise. In the house, he is calm and well behaved. Another important fact is that this big fellow eats plenty of food.
For more information regarding the Great Dane, visit the official American Kennel Club website at www.akc.org or the Great Dane Club of America at www.gdcs.org |
