Great Danes

[dlambertz]

I love Danes...always been my very favorite breed. Does anyone else on this forum have a dane? There used to be a member here that started her own Dane forum so I don't see her post here anymore. I do belong to her forum.

I love all danes and in my life have owned all the akc recognized colors except the blue, I am very partial to the Harlequin color.

With good breeding and proper socialization (which I feel is necessary in all breeds) Danes make a wonderful addition to a family.

[KatzNK9]

I'd love to know more about living with Danes. They are also one of my very favorite breeds. I'm partial to Harlequin & solid colors but also love the brindles.

[dlambertz]

living with a dane is easy for the most part. They tend to be couch potatoes. They chew like crazy and probably longer than most breeds. You have to be careful as they will not only chew on little things but have been known to destroy an entire sofa in a very short amount of time lol.

Of course, the obvious is that they can reach anything on the counter but with proper "Leave it" training counter surfing doesn't have to be a problem.

Danes do have a hard time with extreme heat and cold and really need to be housepets. They also have a hard time staying out of trouble if left to entertain themselves. Not to be confused to not being able to leave a dane alone while you run to the store or even go to work...but if a person doesn't spend quality time with the dane they will find a way to get your attention.

The tails are probably the most dangerous part of the dog... a happy dane can have a deadly tail. On the dane forum my screenname is wicked wags. Which describes a dane's tail perfectly.

Aja very rarely gets on the furniture. I think she prefers to stretch out on the carpet. She does share our king sized bed.

They are happy, fun dogs who love to be with people and with the right amount of exercise are pretty quiet in the house.

[Sasha'sBaby'sGranny]

I used to know someone who had four of the gorgeous things! I didn't get to know them very well at all because whenever anyone called at their house, they would all go and lie behind the sofa! All you could see was the nose of one sticking out one end and the tail and back feet of another sticking out of the far end! Looked as though there was one huge dog there!!

Is this a characteristic of the breed? Are they shy? Timid? Or were these four just unusual?

[dlambertz]

Is this a characteristic of the breed? Are they shy? Timid? Or were these four just unusual?
No they are not shy or timid by nature. I have only had one and that was my rescue Maggy. Friendly and courageous...never aggressive. Very lively dogs or what I would express as a bounce in their step :D

[KatzNK9]

Thank you for the info. I truly do love the breed & have always been taken by them. From the time I was a small child I've always said I would have one someday.

How would you rate a Dane as a playmate for a Golden?

[dlambertz]

Thank you for the info. I truly do love the breed & have always been taken by them. From the time I was a small child I've always said I would have one someday.

How would you rate a Dane as a playmate for a Golden?

Most definately! They love to play and the ones I have owned love water.
I fell in love with the breed when I was in my very early 20's. I don't know if it is because I am older and am smarter than I was in training my dogs but Aja is a true gem and is dearly loved as a family member.

It is hard not to have one after you have. I hate they are shorter lived but I would rather love a dog I have so much admiration for than settle for a dog of another breed.

[mydogs]

Yes there tail is a whip, and they also love to lean on you .They make wonderful pets but don't forget the slobber ,they get along with cats and are basically a very kind not over spirited dog that you can control,unless he's not a good listener and decides he wan'ts to investigate something .you may go with him weather you wan't to or not. Beau my Harlequin took me for many sled rides on my stomach cause he saw something interesting. Now don't tell me I should have trained him better cause he was just being curious and ment nothing by it.:) :) Oh the best is when they sit on your lap. All Dane owners know what I mean.I love my Danes and with all the dogs that I have ever had my Danes would be my first choice.My Husband is a firefighter and when he goes for 24 hours well me and Buff my other Dane sleep together Buff on my Hubbys pillow laying verticle and me on mine.Sometimes my hubby would come home early because of a General Alarm and I didn't know who I would wake with.:) :)

[dlambertz]

None of my danes have been much for the slobbers. Only a two of the six I owned leaned.

Mydogs, I would be very concerned about any dog pulling like that when leashed. Like all danes mine is curious but if they see something of interest I would tell them to leave it. I certainly would never handle being drug by a dog ... Had your dog been through obedience? I know you stated he didn't mean too but my dogs all know that pulling while on lead is a big no no...
My danes also have not nor do not try to sit on your lap.

[mydogs]

Beau at 6months[his nose hasn't turned black yet]

Buff... His Dad was National and International Champion Big Kim of Bella Dane

he's not quite a yr. old in this pic.

and of course my little Cinder our Rescue boy.

[mydogs]

Beau was a jewel, it was winter ,at night he didn't need training he was to cool,Buff wen't to obediance and did every thing perfect.you might say my guys well, SPOILED! I'm so surprised your Danes didn't sit on your lap,so then you don't know that[ mom I'm a good boy sit]four legs on the ground and there butt in your lap. come on your Danes had to do that.:) :)

[dlambertz]

Beau at 6months[his nose hasn't turned black yet]

Buff... His Dad was National and International Champion Big Kim of Bella Dane

he's not quite a yr. old in this pic.

and of course my little Cinder our Rescue boy.

Awesome looking boys! Did Beau's nose eventually turn all black? Usually when they are that pink they do not and retain a lot of pink.

[dlambertz]

Beau was a jewel, it was winter ,at night he didn't need training he was to cool,Buff wen't to obediance and did every thing perfect.you might say my guys well, SPOILED! I'm so surprised your Danes didn't sit on your lap,so then you don't know that[ mom I'm a good boy sit]four legs on the ground and there butt in your lap. come on your Danes had to do that.:) :)

I knew danes liked to sit in laps but none of mine have done so. I also love the all four on the floor and tush on the couch (nope not the lap) I know all about spoiled danes...

Aja is by far the kewlest dane I have had the pleasure of sharing my home with. She is very intelligent and loving but retains that regal yet very clownish behavior.

[mydogs]

Yep jet black.Il'l dig some pics. of him tomorrow,but he did have his blue eyes not so good if showing but beautiful if not :)

[xsyd&palm]

I love Great Danes, but I don't own one. I wish I did..they're one of my favourite breeds:)

[OrcaInspired]

I love Great Danes, but I don't own one. I wish I did..they're one of my favourite breeds:)

Same here :D

[KatzNK9]

:) Thanks for the info. I do hope to have one someday. Maybe the buddy I get for Ozzy. Tempting!

[mydogs]

Just a reminder...there life expectancy...when you bring them to a vet.,you must be able to handle them... not always for the older person unless your fit.My fawn Dane weighed in at over 220lbs. had to take him to a place were they weigh cars then deduct his weight.HE WAS NOT over weight just BIG,36" at the withers.Think hard about getting a Dane, if all your answers are positive,I couldn't recommend a better dog.;) His Dad was 38" at the withers.I'm sure if you read about them you may come across his Dad Champion and international Champion Big Kim of Bella Dane, his breeder was Lina Basquett[sp] very popular in the westminster world, or Dane world for that matter.If any one decides to get a Dane first remember, puppy food MUST be for Giant breeds :)

[dlambertz]

Just a reminder...there life expectancy...when you bring them to a vet.,you must be able to handle them... not always for the older person unless your fit.My fawn Dane weighed in at over 220lbs. had to take him to a place were they weigh cars then deduct his weight.HE WAS NOT over weight just BIG,36" at the withers.Think hard about getting a Dane, if all your answers are positive,I couldn't recommend a better dog.;) His Dad was 38" at the withers.I'm sure if you read about them you may come across his Dad Champion and international Champion Big Kim of Bella Dane, his breeder was Lina Basquett[sp] very popular in the westminster world, or Dane world for that matter.If any one decides to get a Dane first remember, puppy food MUST be for Giant breeds :)

I have disagree with the puppy food. All my research and the dane forum I belong to all agree to feed a premium quality dog food but never puppy food as it encourages to rapid of a growth rate which as a dane owner you do not want to encourage.

Aja is a huge female at 36" and 135 lbs and is still growing as she is just over a year old.

I think the dog needs to be able to be controlled in any situation not just at the vets. The training needs to start young but that is true in any breed. As far as thinking hard about getting a dane, I think that is also true of bringing home any pet.

Did you show your dane? Aja was just being introduced in the ring at small local shows when she prolasped her uterus and had to be spayed. No more showing for her but she makes a great pet!

How long ago did you have Buff? I thought all of Kim of Bella Dane's direct offspring would have been long gone. He has been gone for a very long time.

[dlambertz]

Links supporting not feeding giant breeds puppy food.
http://www.daneangelnetwork.org/Feeding.htm
http://www.all-about-great-danes.com/feeding-great-danes.html
http://www.greatdanelady.com/articles/do_i_need_to_use_a_puppy_food.htm
and she states only eagle natural formula has been tested extensively and has been for 15 years. But on that note I still hold to the opinion if you are feeding a premium quality food (which I do and support doing) than a puppy food is not needed.

[Areias]

I like danes, they are very pretty, and I just love really big dogs. They're not really the breed for me, and thus I'd probably never own one, but I like to admire from afar. ;)

I've also heard about the really big breeds being fed adult food. [I've heard]Danes don't really stop growing until about 2 yrs old, and you don't want them to grow their full size in the first year because of the stress on the joints.

[dlambertz]

Danes generally do not reach full maturity until about 3 when they usually start filling out. My Aja is a big girl for a female and she is built like a female.

Things change over the years and we learn more everyday in all areas of life. Pet nutrition is one of them. Years ago Science Diet was considered a premium food. Now it is mediocre (imo) at best.

Due to all the knowledge not only are we living longer healthier lifes so are our pets.

[skunkstripe]

Dear members, I would not have thought that the topic of these lovely and gentle dogs could get so heated. Please remember to keep things polite. :)

[KatzNK9]

From what I've read, I agree with Dlambertz that giant breeds should not have puppy food but I do believe the medium-large (golden retriever sized) dogs should have large breed puppy food. I would take a giant breed off of puppy food very, very early if it wasn't on an all life stages food.

[Areias]

From what I've read, I agree with Dlambertz that giant breeds should not have puppy food but I do believe the medium-large (golden retriever sized) dogs should have large breed puppy food. I would take a giant breed off of puppy food very, very early if it wasn't on an all life stages food.

That's a good point...what do dane breeders say about the all life stages food, like Canidae?

[golden&hovawart]

I have never put any of my dogs on puppy food.At the time,it was more by convenience than knowledge.When you have adult dogs and puppies,it was just easier to feed them the same food.Most of all,when you free feed them.
All my dogs were on adult food from the beginning and grew to be normal size for their breeds.
I love great dane but I couldn't have one cos they slobber too much and they die way too young.

[OrcaInspired]

What is the average life expectancy of Great Danes?

[Doberman's]

What is the average life expectancy of Great Danes?


I do believe about 8-10 yrs.

[mydogs]

10 years would be pushing it.They usually live to the ripe old age of 7-8.Very sad such a beautiful breed,but you see there hearts can't accomidate such a Giant breed,and from what I was told there hearts are the same size as a Chi's.:) The same for the beautiful Irish Wolfhound and Scottish Deer Hound.

[Doberman's]

Well; they say Dobes live 8-12 yrs and Greyhounds are close to the same. Eotehr way if you care properly and have a well bred dog free of health defects hopefully it will live a long life.

[mydogs]

The problem is that well taken dogs fed correctly will live there normal life span and longer if disease doesn't interfere,unfortunatly Danes life span are much shorter then most breeds.

[Doberman's]

LOL, I said Greyhounds didn't I ? DUH!!!! Long day at work.


OK I retract that and say 8-10 yrs.

[Doberman's]

BTW, I do one day want a Harlequin Great Dane.

[mydogs]

yeah :) you will love them!!!

[MoJo]

The lady whom I board Busa with when we are gone has 3 Danes. They loved to play with our Whippet and were soo friendly. busa was never in a kennel with the rest of the dogs being boarded- she got to stay in the ladies bed with the danes!! :D

[chase_pike]

i have a great dane named athena. I dont have any pictures but she is beutiful with a nice black coat and a big white belly:)

[dlambertz]

The lines my dane is from tend to be long lived at approximately 13 years. Whatever the length of time I have with them I enjoy them immensely.

Edited to add just as we have learned the secrets to living longer over the past years... we have learned how to have our pets stay with us longer also. From all my research the average age of a dane is no longer 7-8 but they are still short lived at about 10

[dlambertz]

i have a great dane named athena. I dont have any pictures but she is beutiful with a nice black coat and a big white belly:)

If you can ever share a picture of Athena I would love to see her!

[KatzNK9]

If you can ever share a picture of Athena I would love to see her!

Me too!:)

[dlambertz]

I love looking at all the pictures I can and I am so happy the muttlies made sigs for everyone so I can see more of everyone's babies :)

[Maplemead]

I have Two Danes
Chloe 8 1/2 Black she is a graceful old lady now
Theo 5 1/2 Fawn
I must admit I have never fed them puppy food
I don't think I could ever live in a house without danes slober and all :D

http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q30/loopyhilly/DCP00235.jpg
http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q30/loopyhilly/DCP00237.jpg

[dlambertz]

I have Two Danes
Chloe 8 1/2 Black she is a graceful old lady now
Theo 5 1/2 Fawn
I must admit I have never fed them puppy food
I don't think I could ever live in a house without danes slober and all :D

http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q30/loopyhilly/DCP00235.jpg
http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q30/loopyhilly/DCP00237.jpg
Just look at those smooshable faces!!! Thank you for sharing your giant gems!

[KatzNK9]

Beautiful dogs, Maplemead! Thanks for sharing your pics with us.

[dlambertz]

Beautiful dogs, Maplemead! Thanks for sharing your pics with us.

You know you want one...Think Harlequin, Think Harlequin :headscratch:

[mydogs]

Awesome looking boys! Did Beau's nose eventually turn all black? Usually when they are that pink they do not and retain a lot of pink.

YES..... here he is BLACK nose !!!!!! old long ago pic.as you put it :)

[mydogs]

Dobermans, and any one else that would enjoy seeing some Danes here are some :) there oldies but goodies.

[mydogs]

Maple mead...you have lovely sweet faced Danes,I love that there ears are not cropped :cheers:

[dlambertz]

Mydogs, I never stated old long ago pictures. I asked about how long ago you had Buff since I know Kim of Bella Dane has been long gone. I also discussed Beau with you but never questioned his age or how long ago you owned him.

Beau is/was a very nice looking dog. I think if you do any new research on the breed you will find they are living longer as all breeds are, due to advances in medical care and knowledge of nutrition. Just as you didn't realize that dane were now allowed to show in a natural ear other things in the dane world have changed also, such as longevity.

I am very proud of my own dane and she is a wonderful example of the breed for temperament and confirmation. I know you think she is inferior because of her size but I assure you she is not. She is a nice size and extremely large for a one year old female.

I would never have dreamed of putting down one's beloved pet....regardless of size and you called me rude ~rolls eyes~

[mydogs]

O.K. lets start fresh,your Dane is a very nice size for a female and I agree females are usually much smaller then males and she does have some filling out to do and possibly some height .So she's not small at all by standards, and if I offended you I'm sorry.Beau was not a show puppy per se,but he could have been shown. on the other hand to answer your question about Buff he was a flier he took after his Dad in every way. He was not shown because my son at that time was ill and I could not follow the shows.The Breeder was very dissapointed but he was sold to me out right with know co. owning so there was not much she could do,besides she had so many winning at that time she really didn't care .

[Maplemead]

Maple mead...you have lovely sweet faced Danes,I love that there ears are not cropped :cheers:

Thanks
It's against the law to crop ears here in the UK

[mydogs]

Oh I reread your post, I never put down your dog I would never insult any ones pet. So your wrong thinking that, besides if your not showing,conformation is out the window unless your a judge you wouldn't know the diff. Well most people any way. Temperment,thats a different story,with a dog that size it's all about temperment,but let me say I have NEVER met a Dane that had a bad temperment,EVER. my Dane almost stepped on my cat one day and triple stepped to avoid hurting him,they are the best.

[dlambertz]

Oh I reread your post, I never put down your dog I would never insult any ones pet. So your wrong thinking that, besides if your not showing,conformation is out the window unless your a judge you wouldn't know the diff. Well most people any way. Temperment,thats a different story,with a dog that size it's all about temperment,but let me say I have NEVER met a Dane that had a bad temperment,EVER. my Dane almost stepped on my cat one day and triple stepped to avoid hurting him,they are the best.

I will have to disagree once again about the confirmation not mattering if only a pet. Confirmation will help offset many problems, from eating problems caused by an overbite or underbite to joint problems cause by overknuckling.

Again this is JMO and you are welcome to your own

[KatzNK9]

Thanks so much for sharing all these great pics. They are all gorgeous dogs.

You know you want one...Think Harlequin, Think Harlequin :headscratch:

Oh yes, all these pics are very tempting. And, Harlequin would be my first choice, however, I haven't ever seen a quality Dane that I wouldn't love to have lounging in my living room no matter the color.

[mydogs]

I will have to disagree once again about the confirmation not mattering if only a pet. Confirmation will help offset many problems, from eating problems caused by an overbite or underbite to joint problems cause by overknuckling.

Again this is JMO and you are welcome to your own

We are talking about conformation in the show ring , a dane that may be a little short in the muzzle or length etc.

[dlambertz]

Oh yes, all these pics are very tempting. And, Harlequin would be my first choice, however, I haven't ever seen a quality Dane that I wouldn't love to have lounging in my living room no matter the color.

Too bad you are not closer. I know of a black, cropped, spayed 10 month old female that is housetrained and looking for a new home. They want $200 for her. The typical "she got bigger than I thought she would" :rolleyes: Don't know what size people think they are going to get when they are looking at a giant breed.

[mydogs]

Thanks so much for sharing all these great pics. They are all gorgeous dogs.



Oh yes, all these pics are very tempting. And, Harlequin would be my first choice, however, I haven't ever seen a quality Dane that I wouldn't love to have lounging in my living room no matter the color.

Yes you are so right,to walk in to a home and see a Dane loungeing [sp]on your couch is awsome :)

[Yellow Dog]

There is a dane in my area who I always see walking with his owner. His name is boomer and he is black and white. The owner jokes and says he is an oversized dalmation! lol

[dlambertz]

There is a dane in my area who I always see walking with his owner. His name is boomer and he is black and white. The owner jokes and says he is an oversized dalmation! lol

It is alway the little ones who confuse Aja with a dalmation but I suppose that is due to her cropped ears. I know if she were natural eared it would happen a lot more with all ages.

[Dobercarrie]

An over sized Dalmation! Ha ha ha.....love that!

Ok....you people have just about got me sold. And a Harlequin, 1st choice, a brindle, 2nd choice. Definitely cropped ears. Now, just where am I going to fit one in my 924 sq ft house with a big, male Doberman, (who is also not above counter surfing) a medium sized mix, an over sized Chihuahua and a normal sized Chihuahua?

Seriously, this breed has always fascinated me. They are really magnificent. And by some of the descriptions, seem to share some of the traits of a Doberman. Of course, a Great Dane is one of the many breeds that is thought to have gone into the development of the Doberman.

I love all your pictures. They're all beautiful and sweet looking dogs. It's really neat to read about your dogs. Keep the stories coming! And the pictures. LOL.

[dlambertz]

Today when I was checking our local shelter I seen a fawn female, natural eared, shy with men which always worries me but it could also be the situation and being afraid of where she is now.

But I would guess she came from one of our local puppy millers who breeds her danes every season and most of her danes are timid. Great thing to breed into an animal...

I wish I had the room to start a rescue... Those gentle gems would all be placed in wonderful loving forever homes.

[mydogs]

Yellow Dog the Black with white Dane you saw is called a Boston, and so I'm told the only color you can breed with all the other colors .If I'm wrong I'm sure Il'l be corrected.They are magnificent to look at but not allowed to show. unless they changed that .:) A beautiful Boston is a sight to behold. Danes colors are also a Danes personalitys,the harlys being a little more spunky, the Fawns very mild and proud ,the blacks a little fiesty,the brindles a little aloof,But because there all so sweet most people wouldn't notice. As far as conformation the best is in the Fawn. Now I know il'l be contradicted again,but thats ok it's kind of fun.I believe the ancetors of the Danes came from the mastiff.In Germany they were used as Boar killers,you would never know by there dispositions today,and the greatest thing is you could keep them with a Chi,as long as he doesn't accidently step or sit on the Chi he is very safe .The Chi will rule.Oh i forgot the blues,don't know much about them not my favorite color.I also think in general the black is the biggest.Now what I mean,is among a bunch of pups usually the black will be the biggest.

[KatzNK9]

Too bad you are not closer. I know of a black, cropped, spayed 10 month old female that is housetrained and looking for a new home. They want $200 for her. The typical "she got bigger than I thought she would" :rolleyes: Don't know what size people think they are going to get when they are looking at a giant breed.

Oh wow! And, cropped too! Crazy people just buy on impulse when they're cute little babies. Just makes me want to pop their heads off their necks & use them for bowling balls.

I love cropped & non-cropped but if I were to get a puppy, I'd definitely want a cropped pup.

[mydogs]

The lines my dane is from tend to be long lived at approximately 13 years. Whatever the length of time I have with them I enjoy them immensely.

Edited to add just as we have learned the secrets to living longer over the past years... we have learned how to have our pets stay with us longer also. From all my research the average age of a dane is no longer 7-8 but they are still short lived at about 10
13 years ????no way!!!!

[dlambertz]

Please do not give misinformation on the breed. The black and white colored dane referred to as the Boston is an AKC recognized color and is correctly called the Mantle. The Mantle is allowed in the showring. The six colors allowed in the show ring are Mantle, Fawn, Brindle, Black, Blue and Harelquin.

The Breeders color code is very clear about keeping the color lines pure with Fawn only being bred to a fawn or a Brindle, A Harlequin to a mantle, harlequin or an harlequin bred black etc. Here is the Breeder's Color Code to keep the dane lines color pure.

http://www.gdca.org/colorcode.htm

There is no truth to the confirmation of the Fawn being the best. It is just hard with some colors to truly see confirmation so that fawns tend to show better. The harlequin is known to be the largest of the breed but none of them will be small.

Be sure to do your research in persons knowledgable in the "new" breed standards if you are looking to add to your four legged family. Confirmation is important in selecting your pup as well as temperament. If you are going to show your pup and you want natural ears you may not get a show pup as most of those pups are cropped by the breeder before they are placed.

Do not be taken in by rare colors such as the fawnequins, or the fawn mantles. Though they are colors that can be eyecatching they generally result from poor and careless breeders.

[dlambertz]

Oh wow! And, cropped too! Crazy people just buy on impulse when they're cute little babies. Just makes me want to pop their heads off their necks & use them for bowling balls.

I love cropped & non-cropped but if I were to get a puppy, I'd definitely want a cropped pup.

Something about a dane and a dobie that is cropped that is very catching to my eyes. Boxers I love either way ...

I have to agree about spending all that money, a crop is not cheap and if you do the after care with a vet is even more expensive. Spay or neuter and than say goodbye... I am to tight to waste my money on something I do not plan on keeping.

I wish you were closer too. We would have a dane, retriever reunion and spend sometime playing with the horses.

[KatzNK9]

Something about a dane and a dobie that is cropped that is very catching to my eyes. Boxers I love either way ...

I have to agree about spending all that money, a crop is not cheap and if you do the after care with a vet is even more expensive. Spay or neuter and than say goodbye... I am to tight to waste my money on something I do not plan on keeping.

I wish you were closer too. We would have a dane, retriever reunion and spend sometime playing with the horses.

I feel the same way about all the traditionally cropped breeds. I'm a pedigreed dog & cat person. I have an appreciation for quality in conformation of many breeds.

I still plan a runaway & heading north to make sure I get a good fix of horses. I'd just love it.

If I was going to rescue one of the traditionally cropped breeds, I wouldn't care about cropping or docking; however, if I'm going to buy a pedigreed puppy, I want the cropped/docked (as applicable) as I prefer it. Cost wouldn't be a factor for me but if I were to adopt an older dog, I wouldn't crop or dock just to conform to my preference. I think that is best done at a very young age.

[dlambertz]

13 years ????no way!!!!
Yes way. Why would I state something not true? I also stated average is still approximately 10. Friend of mine who has had danes since 69 just had his male put down at 11 and at 12 his female is still alive and healthy

[KatzNK9]

dlambertz, now that your Dane is on Canidae, how much does she eat daily? Just curious in comparison to Ozzy who is also on that food.

[cassiesmom]

ohhhhhh... I trained on a previous job with a nurse who worked from home - she lived with her husband and her Great Dane! The first time I went to her house, he was soooooo excited! Company's coming! He barked and barked. And, well, he's a big guy, so I was a little nervous. But guess what? He's got a heart as big as he is! He loves to be petted or get a hug, he loves to play fetch with his old, halfway flat ball, and while we were eating lunch we would give him a dog biscuit, so that way all three of us were eating together. He's kind of blond. My neighbor down the hall has a Pug the same color and that's called fawn in the Pug world. I don't know if it would be called fawn for a Dane or not. Sort of a shiny blondish-red, beautiful. He hadn't had his ears cropped because they liked his ears floppy. And they have a h-u-g-e yard, so lots of space for him to romp and play. He would come in her office and lay his head on her lap while she talked on the phone. What a way to work! Love it! Some of the people she spoke with regularly, knew she worked from home, had a dog and would ask about him! Just a wonderful, sweet dog. :D

Thank you dlambertz for this thread, I will have to call my friend!

[dlambertz]

I had her on California Natural before and have not noticed any difference in how much I am feeding per the food but she eats about 8 - 10 cups a day I would guess. I free feed and just scoop out another folger's coffee can full into her dish when it starts going down.

I have to say I love the Canidae though.

[KatzNK9]

Wow! That's lots more than Ozzy eats at 65 pounds. They must burn some serious calories. Hehehehe ... Ozzy only eats about 2-1/3 cups a day, plus slivers Natural Balance Dog Food Rolls or enough canned food to liven up the taste (maybe 2 oz?)

[dlambertz]

Katz, I suppose it is about every two weeks that I buy a 40lb bag of dog food. Aja must be getting ready for another growth spurt too as she is looking thin ~sighs~

[KatzNK9]

The amount of food wouldn't change my decision about having a Dane, I was just curious. I was expecting you to say 5 or 6 cups though just based on pound-for-pound comparision. I would have guessed that a typical Golden would burn more calories than a typical Dane — there goes that theory.

[mydogs]

KatxNK9....I would like to tell you that my adult Dane ate 4 cups of food a day.He was BIG and weighed 220lbs. Now if you go by the bag you most def. will feed to much.If a pup empty's his dish let him have more.Let his looks be your guide.You don't wan't and over weight dane or a dane thats ribs are showing. your eye will be your guide.A pup especially a young pup should never be underfed.:) I would also like to say a Boston or a Mantle..same color dog .

katz please understand if you keep adding food to your dogs dish you are looking for contamination in that dish, please wash the dish each day with soap and water,but I"m sure you know that :)

Katz I would like to tell you that there are rescues for most pure bred dogs so I'm sure that if you go on line and look up Dane rescue in your area you will find a Dane that needs a home.:)

[dlambertz]

I think we all know that dishes are to be washed everyday. Mine go in the dishwasher every night. I let them eat out of the same dishes and drink out of the same dishes thoughout the day, just as I keep refilling my coffee cup.

A dog that is growing (such as Aja) needs to have food to sustain that growth. She is not eating to much and she is my no means overweight. A person will find what they need to feed and adjust their feedings accordingly.

I am getting tired of this little slamming game. I am happy to supply facts I know and opinions on Danes. I never refer to the color of a Mantle as a Boston. A Boston is a terrier not a Dane. I am more than willing to listen to anyone's opinion but a person better know their facts when they are stating them as fact. I honestly do not want people walking away from this thread thinking they know it is ok to breed a mantle to any other color dane while that is not true.

Some facts about danes
There are 6 recognized show colors listed with the AKC.
There is a color code among reputable breeder and they do follow it.
You can show any of the 6 colors in AKC shows.
You can show a natural eared Dane.
Cropped Ears are still the preferred ear in the show ring.
Fawns are the easiest color to show followed by the brindle.
There is a standard size for Danes. With minimums in place.

There is way to information to cover it all here. Confirmation is huge in having a healthy dane but I believe that to be true in any breed.
Danes should be feed with an elevated feeder as they tend to lean towards bloat.

I hope this thread has been informative to those of you wanting to learn more about the breed. It has been an eye opener for me :)

[KatzNK9]

KatxNK9....I would like to tell you that my adult Dane ate 4 cups of food a day.He was BIG and weighed 220lbs. Now if you go by the bag you most def. will feed to much.If a pup empty's his dish let him have more.Let his looks be your guide.You don't wan't and over weight dane or a dane thats ribs are showing. your eye will be your guide.A pup especially a young pup should never be underfed.:) I would also like to say a Boston or a Mantle..same color dog .

I definitely assumed there was big a difference in what to feed a growing pup & an adult Dane as with most other breeds. I was simply asking for a comparison since I knew dlambertz recently switched to a food that I specifically recommended. As Danes are definitely a breed that I'm considering when getting our 2nd dog, it was just a quick point of curiosity.

I bred & exhibited show cats for over 20 years & I consider myself extremely knowledgeable about maintaining proper condition in my animals. Although I have far more experience with cats, I'm absolutely militant about my animals being in peak condition.

Recently, Ozzy was about 2 pounds overweight before I switched him to Canidae. I trimmed off those 2 pounds in about a month's time as I didn't want to really "diet" him at his young age. I just felt a little too much meat on his ribs. We picked up his exercise routine, trimmed about 1/8 cup per day of kibble, and knocked out a few treats.

I'm a firm believer in the idea that puppies & kittens be relatively free-fed (quantity) even if it is split among 3-4 meals per day. My standard rule has always been as much as they can or will eat in 20 minutes & depending on the appetite of the youngster, decide between 3-4 meals daily.

katz please understand if you keep adding food to your dogs dish you are looking for contamination in that dish, please wash the dish each day with soap and water,but I"m sure you know that :)

I'm not exactly sure this comment was intended for me; however, if it was, I assure you I'm more familiar with proper animal husbandry practices than 99% of the dog/cat owning population.

Katz I would like to tell you that there are rescues for most pure bred dogs so I'm sure that if you go on line and look up Dane rescue in your area you will find a Dane that needs a home.:)

Yes, I'm very familiar with these organizations & have been spot checking several breed rescues. There are some breeds where I would insist on a young puppy; others I see that as unimportant.

Mark is really convinced he wants a young puppy. I'm simply convinced I want a young, pliable dog (preferably 10 months or younger) that would be well suited for a rambunctious golden retriever buddy who will be good with the cats.

There are several breeds that we're still considering & I imagine the reason I can't quite make the final breed decision is that we're not quite ready even though our hearts & impatience tell us it is time.

[KatzNK9]

I hope this thread has been informative to those of you wanting to learn more about the breed. It has been an eye opener for me :)

This has been a very informative thread & I do appreciate it very much.

[applesmom]

Yellow Dog the Black with white Dane you saw is called a Boston, and so I'm told the only color you can breed with all the other colors .If I'm wrong I'm sure Il'l be corrected.They are magnificent to look at but not allowed to show. unless they changed that .:) A beautiful Boston is a sight to behold. Danes colors are also a Danes personalitys,the harlys being a little more spunky, the Fawns very mild and proud ,the blacks a little fiesty,the brindles a little aloof,But because there all so sweet most people wouldn't notice. As far as conformation the best is in the Fawn. Now I know il'l be contradicted again,but thats ok it's kind of fun.I believe the ancetors of the Danes came from the mastiff.In Germany they were used as Boar killers,you would never know by there dispositions today,and the greatest thing is you could keep them with a Chi,as long as he doesn't accidently step or sit on the Chi he is very safe .The Chi will rule.Oh i forgot the blues,don't know much about them not my favorite color.I also think in general the black is the biggest.Now what I mean,is among a bunch of pups usually the black will be the biggest.

Is there any other substantiation for the comments above in bold other than personal opinion? I find that belief fascinating and in complete opposition to beliefs regarding colors in other breeds with color variations.

[Doberman's]

KatxNK9....I would like to tell you that my adult Dane ate 4 cups of food a day.He was BIG and weighed 220lbs. Now if you go by the bag you most def. will feed to much.If a pup empty's his dish let him have more.Let his looks be your guide.You don't wan't and over weight dane or a dane thats ribs are showing. your eye will be your guide.A pup especially a young pup should never be underfed.:) I would also like to say a Boston or a Mantle..same color dog .

katz please understand if you keep adding food to your dogs dish you are looking for contamination in that dish, please wash the dish each day with soap and water,but I"m sure you know that :)

Katz I would like to tell you that there are rescues for most pure bred dogs so I'm sure that if you go on line and look up Dane rescue in your area you will find a Dane that needs a home.:)

Mydogs I am sure everyones know about washing dog bowls however I do not wash mine everyday and my dogs eat RAW. Have they ever been sick ? Nope. I am not sure of the reason why it was important to remind us about washing the bowls with soap and water but thanks for the that. Please stay on topic.

As for rescues, you bet there are pure bred rescues out there. Most if not all pure bred dog registries have them or can guide you through the proper channels to find them.

[dlambertz]

Katz
today just for you... I am going to get out the measuring cup and keep track of how much Aja eats in one day. I may get a pleasant surprise :)

As far as the Canidae goes I really could not be happier. Nice stools and much smaller for pickup. Great skin and coat and a very happy tail are the things I have really taken note of. The California Natural gave Aja the runs periodically. Which is why I was looking for a quality comparable food. The price was a nice added bonus.

You come spend some time with me on horseback and we can discuss danes and than I will bring you home and you can see how fun they are. Once you spend a day with one, you will have a hard time not always keeping the thought of getting one to share your home, out of your head.

[KatzNK9]

Katz
today just for you... I am going to get out the measuring cup and keep track of how much Aja eats in one day. I may get a pleasant surprise :)

As far as the Canidae goes I really could not be happier. Nice stools and much smaller for pickup. Great skin and coat and a very happy tail are the things I have really taken note of. The California Natural gave Aja the runs periodically. Which is why I was looking for a quality comparable food. The price was a nice added bonus.

You come spend some time with me on horseback and we can discuss danes and than I will bring you home and you can see how fun they are. Once you spend a day with one, you will have a hard time not always keeping the thought of getting one to share your home, out of your head.

I'll be curious to hear your results. I know that Ozzy eats less Canidae than he did Nature's Recipe or Nutro Natural but that's not too surprising as it is a better food (much thanks to Vagreys for his kibble analsysis so the real credit for choosing that food goes to him). I'm having the same results with (firm stools that are significantly smaller) although during the first week on it, Ozzy had somewhat loose stools.

I've known lots of Danes over the years but only casually. I've always wanted one (or more) to the extent that it is surprising I've never had one. As a general statement, the larger the dog, the more I'm attracted to it. Mark will take some convincing before I get a Dane. He grew up with tiny little dogs & his mother used to "trade them in":mad: for bad behavior so until Ozzy, he never had a real relationship with a dog. To him, Ozzy is a large dog — to me, he's a small dog. He thought he hated cats before we were together too but he loves them dearly & really just loves all animals.

To me, a Dane would be a perfect choice. We have a small house & a large yard. From what I know, they are very calm in the house but do need plenty of exercise. Ozzy's got plenty of energy to keep a Dane hopping.

As it stands right now, the breeds that are calling my name the strongest (in addition to a 2nd Golden) are Dane, Hovawart, Akita, and Belgian Tervuren (yes, I know — that's quite a range of dog types/personalities). I've pretty much given up on the idea of a Dogue de Bordeaux or Mastiff as they don't have the right energy level for Oz.

Still looking forward to the day I can run away from home on my whirlwind North tour to visit you & Doberman's to ride horses & play with the dogs.:)

OK, I've strayed way off topic so I'll quit now.:rolleyes:

[dlambertz]

Well Aja's dish has been been filled with 4 cups of food. I will let you know at the end of the night what she ate :)

[mydogs]

I had her on California Natural before and have not noticed any difference in how much I am feeding per the food but she eats about 8 - 10 cups a day I would guess. I free feed and just scoop out another folger's coffee can full into her dish when it starts going down.

I have to say I love the Canidae though.


This is the reason I said to wash the dish,it sounds to me that the dish is being refilled only, which we all know is a no no :)

[mydogs]

:) I definitely assumed there was big a difference in what to feed a growing pup & an adult Dane as with most other breeds. I was simply asking for a comparison since I knew dlambertz recently switched to a food that I specifically recommended. As Danes are definitely a breed that I'm considering when getting our 2nd dog, it was just a quick point of curiosity.

I bred & exhibited show cats for over 20 years & I consider myself extremely knowledgeable about maintaining proper condition in my animals. Although I have far more experience with cats, I'm absolutely militant about my animals being in peak condition.

Recently, Ozzy was about 2 pounds overweight before I switched him to Canidae. I trimmed off those 2 pounds in about a month's time as I didn't want to really "diet" him at his young age. I just felt a little too much meat on his ribs. We picked up his exercise routine, trimmed about 1/8 cup per day of kibble, and knocked out a few treats.

I'm a firm believer in the idea that puppies & kittens be relatively free-fed (quantity) even if it is split among 3-4 meals per day. My standard rule has always been as much as they can or will eat in 20 minutes & depending on the appetite of the youngster, decide between 3-4 meals daily.



I'm not exactly sure this comment was intended for me; however, if it was, I assure you I'm more familiar with proper animal husbandry practices than 99% of the dog/cat owning population.



Yes, I'm very familiar with these organizations & have been spot checking several breed rescues. There are some breeds where I would insist on a young puppy; others I see that as unimportant.

Mark is really convinced he wants a young puppy. I'm simply convinced I want a young, pliable dog (preferably 10 months or younger) that would be well suited for a rambunctious golden retriever buddy who will be good with the cats.





There are several breeds that we're still considering & I imagine the reason I can't quite make the final breed decision is that we're not quite ready even though our hearts & impatience tell us it is time.






I would like to say Mark my husband ,years ago brought us a Fawn pup Great Dane that was bred by a quality breeder and the pup was 4 months old ,well for some reason the pup didn't [at that young age] like my son who was only 4 yrs old.I let my son offer him bread and tried for one day to get him to except treats,he would take them and then walk away and growl.I called the breeder and she told me to bring him back right away,that was scary,at that time I didn't know much about Danes ,so if you get a pup make sure ,if you have kids that the Dane approaches and likes them. just trying to help you with your quest.A shy dane is a dangerous dane, but fortunatly far and few between.You say that you bred cats, can you tell me about the cats that are suppose to be non allergic completly but very very expensive.My daughter would love a cat but she has allergies towards them.Do they really exist ?thanks .Oh the 4 cups of food were fed each day to my adult dane and his weight was fine for his size,keep in mind that he was walked ,but never any hard excersize,but maintained his 220 lbs.

[dlambertz]

:)
I would like to say Mark my husband ,years ago brought us a Fawn pup Great Dane that was bred by a quality breeder and the pup was 4 months old ,well for some reason the pup didn't [at that young age] like my son who was only 4 yrs old.I let my son offer him bread and tried for one day to get him to except treats,he would take them and then walk away and growl.I called the breeder and she told me to bring him back right away,that was scary,at that time I didn't know much about Danes ,so if you get a pup make sure ,if you have kids that the Dane approaches and likes them. just trying to help you with your quest.A shy dane is a dangerous dane, but fortunatly far and few between.
Mydogs you make very contradictory statements when discussing danes. In one post you stated fawns were the largest than you edited and said blacks.

Here you state that you had a dane pup that growl yet is post #51 of this thread you stated differently

Oh I reread your post, I never put down your dog I would never insult any ones pet. So your wrong thinking that, besides if your not showing,conformation is out the window unless your a judge you wouldn't know the diff. Well most people any way. Temperment,thats a different story,with a dog that size it's all about temperment,but let me say I have NEVER met a Dane that had a bad temperment,EVER. my Dane almost stepped on my cat one day and triple stepped to avoid hurting him,they are the best.

I am not doubting you loved your danes very much and that you know what it is like to live with a dane. My problem with your posts is the inconsistencies.

It seems to me that you want stir the pot with everything I post. If I am wrong I apologize. I state facts and give opinions. When giving an opinion I try to make it clear that it is just my opinion and not fact. When I give facts I am able to back them up.

Please again I am going to ask you publicly as I did privately in my first pm to you. If you have a problem with my posts please just put me on ignore. It is very easy to do and I am sure if you don't know how someone would be glad to direct you in how to do so.

[dlambertz]

Katz .. an Aja breakfast report. 4 cups in her bowl looked like very little so I gave 6. She is now laying down with her chew toy and I went and measured what was left. She ate 5. I filled her dish again with 5 more cups

[KatzNK9]

I called the breeder and she told me to bring him back right away,that was scary,at that time I didn't know much about Danes ,so if you get a pup make sure ,if you have kids that the Dane approaches and likes them. just trying to help you with your quest.A shy dane is a dangerous dane, but fortunatly far and few between.

No kids here & very little contact with children except when we go to pet stores, parks, etc. I'd like to think I could help correct a shy puppy's behavior 100% of the time with training, socialization, time and patience. I would be more concerned about this behavior in adult dogs of any breed.

You say that you bred cats, can you tell me about the cats that are suppose to be non allergic completly but very very expensive.My daughter would love a cat but she has allergies towards them.Do they really exist ?thanks

Most people with allergies to cats are allergic to the dander from the cat's saliva on their coats. Probably 80% or more of allergies to cats can be handled with extra cat grooming/bathing & additional housecleaning. The Cornish Rex is said to be hypoallergenic; however, it still has dander but does shed far less than other breeds. I'd recommend a Rex that received frequent baths, use of a product called "Allerpet" which is put on the cat's coat, and extra vacuuming for a child with allergies. There are also allergy shots available. Additionally, many children who live with cats/dogs despite their allergies often outgrow them if they live in a reasonably controlled environment. Keeping the cat out of the child's bedroom would also be a good idea unless extreme care is taken with clean bedding.

I have a good friend who is HIGHLY allergic to cats & also has asthma. His wife brought home one of my cats 19 years ago. That girl lived with them to be 18 years, 8 months old & a few years ago, they got a 2nd Birman cat. When the 18+ year old passed, they got another Birman cat. Birmans are longhairs & shed quite a bit. Using extra vacuuming, some ionizers throughout the house, Allerpet, and frequent cat baths, he lives happily & without problems with his allergies. The cats also sleep in bed with them.

Katz .. an Aja breakfast report. 4 cups in her bowl looked like very little so I gave 6. She is now laying down with her chew toy and I went and measured what was left. She ate 5. I filled her dish again with 5 more cups

Hungry 'lil thang, isn't she? It will be interesting to see if continues at that pace throughout the day.

[dlambertz]

I know she usually leaves the same amount when she eats. Normally will not eat again until evening. But sometimes goes in for just a mouthful she brings out to eat with us. That would put her at about 10 cups. She is having a growth spurt at this time so I am sure that is probably part of it. I will keep you posted :)

[skunkstripe]

Folks if you stick to the topic of Great Danes it makes it a whole lot easier when someone is searching for info. :)
Nothing against the topic of allergies in cats, but if there is enough interest it would be a good idea to start another thread in the "Other pets" section.

[Shankly]

I would really love to own a great dane one day, it will never happen though as although we own a dog my wife is nervous around some dogs especially large dogs.
The biggest dog I will ever be able to have would probably be around the size of a golden or boxer (of which i would like to own both at some point)

[dlambertz]

I think a boxer would be my next choice after a dane. My grandparents had one when I was growing up. I have not done the research on them as I love the danes in general...maybe if I ever feel like I get to old to take care of a giant breed I will take on a large :)

[golden&hovawart]

To Aja's Mom,
Are you thinking of bringing another one home?.
Aja is gorgeous.
Are females more active than males or it really depends?.

[dlambertz]

To Aja's Mom,
Are you thinking of bringing another one home?.
Aja is gorgeous.
Are females more active than males or it really depends?.

Heavens NO!!! I love having danes but one at a time works very well for me. We did have two before we lost our rescue Maggy.

I have never owned a male dog so I honestly can not tell you the answer to your question. Aja is high energy. Very Playful!!!

[cassiesmom]

dlambertz - is this color called Fawn? This is what my friend's dog (Max) looks like, except for his ears. http://www.gdca.org/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=1179&papass=&sort=1&thecat= He's just the best. Part guard dog and part funny guy.

[dlambertz]

Yes it is! I love all of the colors to be honest but there is something about a harlequin that I have always admired.

[skunkstripe]

It seems to me that in my internet travels I ran across mention of a "Merlequin" but I also recall that this was extremely undesirable (despite the striking appearance of the coat). Are there defects associated with the "Merlequin" such as blindness or deafness?

[dlambertz]

Skunkstripe I have to agree the merlequin can be very striking. Merles like harlequins when bred to a merle or a harlequin can result in puppies that have too much white which leads to them being prone to deafness and blindness.

The color code of ethics would tell you not to breed merles. I have to agree that though I like the looks of some of the undesirables I would certainly never breed.

Course, I would never find myself breeding anyway... too many pups in the world for me to be adding to the pet pupulation.

[dlambertz]

Katz
Well, Aja is done eating for the day. I just picked up the last of her food. So she ate cups of Canidae for breakfast. A waffle with syrup for her mid morning snack... acutally my little granddaughter didn't want me to know she didn't eat it and snuck it to Aja. :rolleyes: When I started cleaning up our own breakfast mess and Ali was the last one to sit down and eat she didn't want to be left behind when all her friends headed outside...
Anyway for supper Aja ate another 3 cups and now she is resting quietly at my feet waiting for me to tell her it is time to go to bed.

[KatzNK9]

So that's 8 cups a day & a nice lil snack. Sounds perfect to me! Thanks for the feeding test. I'll start saving my pennies in case I get a Dane pup!

[mydogs]

To Aja's Mom,
Are you thinking of bringing another one home?.
Aja is gorgeous.
Are females more active than males or it really depends?.

Males are as active and playful as females. Most people who want a Dane for it's size,the male is larger and looks more masculine then the female:)

[mydogs]

It seems to me that in my internet travels I ran across mention of a "Merlequin" but I also recall that this was extremely undesirable (despite the striking appearance of the coat). Are there defects associated with the "Merlequin" such as blindness or deafness?

Merles can not be shown in the ring .If you put most merles next to the Harliquins you would see that the Harl. is much more beautiful. Of course it's a matter of taste but the harl. is [mostly]the much more striking dog.Bostons on the other hand [or mantle as there now called ] can be very very beautiful :)

[mydogs]

dlambertz - is this color called Fawn? This is what my friend's dog (Max) looks like, except for his ears. http://www.gdca.org/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=1179&papass=&sort=1&thecat= He's just the best. Part guard dog and part funny guy.

That is Cassies mom, and a very beautiful Fawn at that. :)

[dlambertz]

I personally do not know anyone who thinks big is better in a dane. Uneducated people think of danes in terms of size. The standard for the dane is 28" minimum for the female with 30" or more being more desireable and 30" for the male with 32" or more being more desireable "as long as the dog stays in proportion to their height." Anyone with a dane is going to have a big dog. Those who love and know the breed are more worried about temperament and confirmation than they are with size. They know that a 33" fit male, that is well put together is going to have a better chance in the show ring than a 38" out of proportion, out of shape male.

Males generally seem to be calmer but that seems to be the case in all the breeds I have been in contact with. That is my own observation and not fact.

Cassiesmom, I have some friends from my dane forum that have some top of the line show dogs and great websites if you want me to link you up to one. she has some really good color information. Showing some great examples.

[mydogs]

I personally do not know anyone who thinks big is better in a dane. Uneducated people think of danes in terms of size. The standard for the dane is 28" minimum for the female with 30" or more being more desireable and 30" for the male with 32" or more being more desireable "as long as the dog stays in proportion to their height." Anyone with a dane is going to have a big dog. Those who love and know the breed are more worried about temperament and confirmation than they are with size. They know that a 33" fit male, that is well put together is going to have a better chance in the show ring than a 38" out of proportion, out of shape male.

Males generally seem to be calmer but that seems to be the case in all the breeds I have been in contact with. That is my own observation and not fact.

Cassiesmom, I have some friends from my dane forum that have some top of the line show dogs and great websites if you want me to link you up to one. she has some really good color information. Showing some great examples.



With all things being considered the larger dog will be picked over the smaller. Now remember ALL the standard ,the judge will choose the larger of the breed.:)

[KatzNK9]

If showing dogs is anything like showing cats, I'd hope that conformation judges find the best specimen based on standard, balance, condition, gait/moment and grooming. I'd like to think dog show judges are like cat show judges and can truly judge animals rather than simply measure or weigh them.

[mydogs]

If showing dogs is anything like showing cats, I'd hope that conformation conformation judges find the best specimen based on standard, balance, condition, gait/moment and grooming. I'd like to think dog show judges are like cat show judges and can truly judge animals rather than simply measure or weigh them.


Absolutley , but when all is said and done and every thing being equal the larger dane will win over the smaller :) Lets remember that if the dane is OVER sized he/she wouldn't be in the ring any way,But and this is a BIG but ,I don't think there is minor or major faults for size :)

[KatzNK9]

Size is nothing without balance. I'd like to think judges have more talent & ability than to believe that. As with anything else, there are some people who are better at their job than others. After showing cats for more than 20 years, I've seen the good, the bad & the ugly as far as judges are concerned but a judge who simply weighs &/or measures an animal who fits within the standard is completely inept.

[mydogs]

I agree, but it just happens,maybe to the judges EYE, he/ she is more attractive who knows? also a lot of politics in the ring, if your showing I'm sure you have come up against that at times,You know, two animals both equal but the judge knows the person showing and picks that one over the other maybe a not so known handler :) Oh I reread your post you do show.Well then you know exactly what I'm talking about.Now I'm talking all things being equal again I say the larger won will win. Just sayin

[KatzNK9]

:( yeah, "the ugly" that I referred to earlier — lack of integrity.

[dlambertz]

So I wonder if showing of cats and dogs is at all like the showing of horses? My best friend holds a national judges card for horses and she told me she usually has the winners placed and the losers knocked out in the first or second trip around the ring.

I would have loved to take Aja into the showring, Can we say AMATEUR!!!... spaying prevented that.
Katz are you paying attention to my sig? :)

[KatzNK9]

LMAO! Yes, I'm paying attention to your sig! I've been pointing it out to Mark too. He's going to take some work on the idea of a Dane. So far, he's stuck in the mold of another Golden & he's kinda liking the black & tan Hovawart. I need to get him somewhere to meet a few Danes.

Cats are handled by the judges rather than pranced around a ring; however, the judges usually go down the line-up of cats in the cages & I'm quite sure they have a general idea of what they like to see when going down the line before even handling them. However, I'm also sure that once they get their hands on them, that often changes. I was working toward the judging program when I got sidetracked with a bad divorce story that got me out of cats, shows, and breeding & I can say that I can do a quick rundown of a line-up of cats & have a good idea of who the winners would be. However, the most important parts definitely come once you get your hands on them & feel the overall balance & conformation to standard. In cats, a great judge could likely judge with their eyes closed (excluding visual items in the standard like color, etc.) if put to the test & come up with the same result as with eyes open.

[dlambertz]

very informative... and now off to change my sig just for Mark ;)

[KatzNK9]

LOL, he says he loves Danes. He just can't imagine a dog of that size in the house. I'm continuing to work on him. He's come around on every other subject I've pushed in the last 9 years, I can't imagine this one would be too difficult if put to the actual test.

[dlambertz]

You will be very pleased if you decide on a dane
They are very loving and people orientated. They are clowns in their own right and really do not take up as much room in a house as a person would believe. I want to write more but my granddaughter is pulling on my arm telling me she wants to show me her room. Something is telling me to be afraid...very afraid!

[KatzNK9]

LOL, hope it isn't a creepy crawly when you get in there. Hahaha

Danes I've known are very calm indoors & I'm not worried about that part at all. The closer they are to me, the better. I'd love a Dane in my lap!

[dlambertz]

LOL, hope it isn't a creepy crawly when you get in there. Hahaha

Danes I've known are very calm indoors & I'm not worried about that part at all. The closer they are to me, the better. I'd love a Dane in my lap!

It was ok...she picked up her room so I could vacuum. She told me I had to keep Aja out of there otherwise it would be messy when she comes back tomorrow ;)

[Vixie]

None of my danes have been much for the slobbers. Only a two of the six I owned leaned.

Mydogs, I would be very concerned about any dog pulling like that when leashed. Like all danes mine is curious but if they see something of interest I would tell them to leave it. I certainly would never handle being drug by a dog ... Had your dog been through obedience? I know you stated he didn't mean too but my dogs all know that pulling while on lead is a big no no...
My danes also have not nor do not try to sit on your lap.



I loved when my dane leaned on me and sat in my lap. He would also sit on the couch just like a persoin with only his rear on it. I miss him so much!!!! I would never want to train my dane not to do these things as these are such dane charecteristics.