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The Great Dane: The gentle giant – history, character and family life

Alano adulto
Alano adulto

The Great Dane , also known as the German Mastiff , is one of the most majestic and imposing dog breeds in the world. Nicknamed the "Apollo of Dog Breeds" due to its noble beauty and statuesque build, this gentle giant perfectly combines strength, elegance, and pride. Despite its imposing size, the Great Dane is loved worldwide for its gentle , affectionate nature and deep loyalty to its family. Originally bred for big game hunting, today it is above all a devoted and calm companion dog. A companion that, while requiring special attention due to its size, will reward every effort with unconditional affection and a calming, majestic presence.


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1. Detailed history and origins of the breed


The Great Dane's history stretches back a long way and is closely intertwined with European hunting and aristocratic traditions. Its origins are complex and cannot be traced back to a single ancestor, but are the result of skillful crossbreeding of various hunting and fighting dog types over centuries.


The ancestors: Mastiffs and Greyhounds


The direct ancestors of the modern Great Dane can be identified in two main lines:

  1. The Old Bullenbeisser: A powerful, mastiff-like dog formerly used for hunting, especially wild boar, and bullfighting. These dogs laid the foundation for the strength and power that characterize this breed.

  2. Great Danes (Hatzrüde): Fast and agile dogs, probably similar to or crossbred with greyhounds. This genetic component has contributed to the Great Dane's characteristic size , elegance , and agility , which is unusual for a Molosser breed.

The Great Dane was therefore created as an intermediate dog, combining the power of the Mastiff (for bringing down prey) with the speed and agility of the Greyhound (for catching it quickly). It was the perfect dog for hunting large game such as wild boar and bear , an activity very popular among the nobility.


The term “Dogge” and regional variants


Originally, the term "Dogge" didn't refer to a specific breed, but was a general term in Germany for a large, powerful dog. Over time, these dogs were differentiated and named according to their origin, size, or intended use. These old names include:

  • Ulm Mastiff: This variant is probably closest to the Mastiff type.

  • English Mastiff: It indicates the bloodlines originating from England.

  • Great Dane (Danish Mastiff or German Dogge): Curiously, the name used in Italy and several other languages (in English “ Grand Danese” or “Great Dane ”) is a historical legacy, although the breed is of German origin.

  • Saupacker (wild boar dog): The name clearly identified its main function.

  • Great Dane: Name that emphasizes size.


The union and the birth of the Great Dane


The turning point came in 19th-century Germany. In 1878, a committee of experienced breeders and judges met in Berlin under the chairmanship of Dr. Bodinus with the goal of standardizing and unifying all these different variations under a single name and standard.

It was decided to classify all the aforementioned varieties as "Great Dane," thus officially declaring them the German national breed . This act was fundamental for the creation of a systematic and independent breeding program that distinguished itself from other large European dogs.

  • 1880: The first official breed standard was created at an exhibition in Berlin.

  • 1888: The “Deutsche Doggen Club 1888 eV” , the oldest breeding club, was founded with the aim of protecting and promoting the standard.


The Great Dane in the Renaissance and the coat selection


During the Renaissance, the Great Dane became a symbol of status and wealth in European courts. It was prized not only for its hunting and guarding abilities, but also for its majestic beauty. Through careful breeding, various color variations were highlighted, including the charming harlequin Great Dane (black spots on a white background), which was especially popular with noblemen and aristocrats due to its unique and striking appearance.

In short, the Great Dane is the result of a long selection process that transformed a wild and functional hunting dog into a noble giant whose history is inextricably linked to Germany and its attempt to define an imposing and iconic national breed.

Historical period

Key event

Main role

Antiquity/Middle Ages

Cross between Mastiffs (bulldogs) and Greyhounds (hunting dogs)

Wild boar and bear hunting

Renaissance

Popularity in European courts

Hunting dog, guard dog and status symbol

19th century

Multiple names (Ulm Dogge, Great Dane, etc.)

Various regional and functional roles

1878

Berlin Committee (Dr. Bodinus)

Association under the name “Great Dane”

1880

Development of the first standard

Official birth of the modern German breed

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2. Physical characteristics and breed standard


According to the official standard no. 235 of the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale), the Great Dane belongs to Group 2 (Pinscher and Schnauzer-type dogs, Molossoid breeds and Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs), Section 2 (Molossoid breeds, Mastiff breeds). It is universally recognized as the "Apollo of dog breeds" due to its imposing, harmonious, and noble physique, perfectly balancing strength , pride , and elegance .


General appearance


The Great Dane should resemble a majestic statue : it should be neither coarse nor too slender (delicate). Its body is almost square , especially in males; females may be somewhat longer. Sexual dimorphism is clearly evident.


Dimensions (size)


The size is the characteristic feature of this breed and makes it a true giant:

feature

Masculine

Female

Minimum height at the withers

80 cm

72 cm

Maximum height at the withers

90 cm (must not be exceeded)

84 cm (must not be exceeded)

Approximate weight

Up to 70-80 kg (or more, depending on size)

Slightly lower


The head: Noble expressiveness


The head is one of the most important elements of the standard as it defines the expression and nobility.

  • Shape: Long, narrow, pronounced, with clear, expressive lines. It should never be wedge-shaped.

  • Craniofacial axes: They must be absolutely parallel .

  • Ratio: The distance between the tip of the nose and the stop (the depression between the forehead and the bridge of the nose) must be as equal as possible to the distance between the stop and the slightly pronounced occipital process (ratio 1:1).

  • Eyes: Medium-sized, oval, with tightly fitting eyelids. The expression is lively, intelligent, and friendly. They should be as dark as possible. Glass eyes (blue) and heterochromia (different colored eyes) are tolerated in spotted Great Danes.

  • Ears: Naturally hanging, set high, medium size.


Torso and bone structure


The Great Dane's body is strong and muscular, but never heavy or clumsy.

  • Neck: Long, lean, muscular, and well-developed at the base, tapering slightly toward the head with an elegantly arched upper profile. Dewlap or excess skin is highly undesirable.

  • Withers: The highest point of the body, well defined.

  • Back: Short, strong and muscular, with a slight slope backwards.

  • Loins: Broad and muscular.

  • Croup: Broad, well muscled, slightly sloping towards the base of the tail.

  • Chest: Deep chest, reaching to the elbows. The ribs are well sprung, but not barrel-shaped or flat.

  • Underline: The belly is well tucked up (thin) and forms a pleasantly curved profile.


Limbs and gait


The limbs are strong, muscular, and perfectly vertical, reflecting the dog's size. The gait should be free, springy, and ground-covering.

  • Shoulder: Long and sloping shoulder blade (about 100-110° to the humerus).

  • Feet: Round, with strongly arched and well closed toes (called cat feet ).

  • Tail: Reaching to the hock or slightly higher, it is set high and tapers towards the tip. When at rest, it hangs down; when moving, it is carried in a saber shape (but not above the topline).


Cloak and colors


The coat is very short, dense, smooth, glossy, and lies close to the body. It should never be thick, dull, or have an undercoat. The breed is bred in three different color variations, which, except in certain genetic exceptions (such as the Harlequin), should never be crossed:

Variety of colors

FCI standard description

fawn

Light to deep yellow gold. A black mask on the muzzle is mandatory.

Brindle

Yellow-brown base with more or less regular and well-defined black stripes following the course of the ribs.

harlequin

Pure white background (preferably free from brindle areas), with shiny, irregular, well-distributed black spots all over the body (similar to torn pieces).

Black

Uniformly black. Small white markings on the chest and paws are permitted.

Blue

Pure steel gray with metallic highlights. Small white markings on the chest and paws are permitted.

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3. Temperament and character of the breed


Despite their imposing stature, their true trademark is their character. Due to their exceptional mental and physical balance and their exceptionally peaceful nature, the breed is commonly referred to as the "gentle giant."


Affection and family cohesion


The most characteristic trait of the Great Dane is its deep bond with its owner and family. It is a dog that cannot tolerate loneliness and has a deep need for human contact.

  • Absolute love: The Great Dane forms an almost symbiotic bond with its humans. It is not a dog that can be relegated to a yard or kennel; it must live indoors , constantly close to its "pack."

  • "Couch Dog": Despite their size, the Great Dane is surprisingly calm and comfortable at home. They enjoy long naps on soft surfaces (a necessity to protect their joints) and often seek physical contact with their owner. They are known for taking up little space, moving surprisingly gracefully , and being almost self-conscious of their size.

  • Intelligence and receptivity: This is an intelligent dog and very eager to learn . Training is generally easy as long as it is based on respect , consistency , and positive reinforcement . Rules must be established from puppyhood, as a 70 kg Great Dane who disobeys can become unmanageable.


Security


The Great Dane is a naturally confident dog, a key factor that contributes to its docility.

  • High tolerance threshold: He has a very high resistance to provocation . He is not easily irritated or aggressive. He tends to trust other dogs, other animals, and people.

  • Reserved towards strangers: Although friendly towards his family, he can be naturally reserved towards strangers. He is not an overly sociable dog, but his behavior is characterized by calm alertness , not gratuitous aggression.

  • Guardian, not territorial: His role is not to defend his territory (like a shepherd), but to protect his family members . He only acts as a guardian when he perceives a real threat to his "mixed pack" (humans and other domestic animals). When he does take action, his strength is considerable, but he always acts as a last resort.


Temperament in summary


The ideal character of the Great Dane, as described in the standard, is:

  • Friendly

  • Loving and affectionate towards the owners

  • Gentle family companion

  • Safe and fearless

  • Easy to handle

  • Very high inhibition threshold for provocation

  • Absence of aggressive behavior

Character overview table

character trait

Description

Instructions on behavior

Affectivity

Extremely high. Requires constant contact.

Tendency to search for the sofa and “stick” to the owner.

obedience

Very high. High tolerance threshold.

Rarely aggressive or reactive.

intelligence

Good, receptive.

It requires rigorous, patient, and consistent (not compulsive) training.

surveillance

Natural, but reserved. Not territorial.

Excellent protector of the family, but not an aggressor.

Activities at home

Low. Calm and lazy dog.

Loves to rest but still needs daily exercise.

In summary, the Great Dane is a dog with a strong and profound personality who should feel like an integral part of family life. Those who choose a Great Dane should not be looking for a mere guard dog, but rather a loyal friend capable of reflection and unconditional love, enriching everyday life with their majestic and gentle presence.


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4. Most important skills and strengths by selection line


Originally bred for hunting, the modern Great Dane's abilities have evolved. Today, it is primarily used as a companion and assistance dog , while retaining its natural guarding abilities and innate athleticism . Modern breeding aims for a balanced character, utilizing several of its traits.


Historical Skills: Hunting and Noble Guard


The Great Dane's original calling was hunting. Their original bloodlines combined two unique strengths:

  1. Stopping power (Molosser): Its body mass and strong muscles enabled it to kill and hold larger game (wild boars and bears) for the hunter.

  2. Agility and speed (greyhound type): His long legs and lean build (especially in some old lines) gave him surprising acceleration and agility for a dog of his size.

During the Renaissance, his imposing stature and calm nature made him an excellent guard dog for noble estates and a companion for gentlemen on horseback, a role that reinforced his selection due to his loyalty and docility to the family.


Current strengths and skills


Today, the Great Dane is characterized by several abilities that have been developed or preserved through the selection lines:


A. Companion and family dog (The dominant line)


The greatest strength of the modern Great Dane is its balanced temperament . Breeding over the past decades has focused on improving its gentle , patient, and affectionate nature.

  • Very high tolerance: He is exceptionally tolerant of children and other pets (if well socialized). His patience and low reaction to provocation make him a safe and reliable playmate (always supervised due to his size).

  • Empathy and intuition: His intelligence not only allows him to learn commands easily, but also manifests itself in great judgment and adaptability . He is able to sense the mood of the family and act accordingly, always seeking contact.


B. Guard and defense dog (natural)


The Great Dane is not an “extreme” guard dog (which requires intensive training), but a natural watchdog simply by its presence.

  • Physical deterrent: Its sheer size and stern, majestic appearance are extremely deterrent to intruders.

  • Passive vigilance: Their vigilance is primarily protective , not territorial. The Great Dane protects their family members, not their property. They only act when there is a real and obvious threat, demonstrating great courage and strength, but without unreasonable aggression.


C. Assistance dogs and animal therapy


Thanks to its calm nature and size, the Great Dane is increasingly valued for social and caring roles.

  • Serene and majestic: His massive presence combined with his tranquility makes him ideal for animal therapy (or animal-assisted therapy ), especially with elderly or disabled people. His height facilitates interaction for wheelchair users.

  • Emotional companion: The strong need for physical contact and emotional bonding makes him an excellent psychological support for his owners.


Summary of skills


Select line/role

Main skills

Strengthen

Historical (hunting)

Power and speed in sprinting and running.

Capture of big game.

Noble Guard

Loyalty, vigilance and impressionability.

Personal protection and strong visual deterrent.

Company/Family (Current)

Patience, docility, affection.

Very high tolerance towards children and other animals.

Assistance/Animal Therapy

Calmness, size, need for contact.

Facilitated interaction (e.g. for people in wheelchairs), emotional support.

The Great Dane embodies a rare balance: a muscular, fast athlete with a kind heart and a calm mind. These qualities make him an excellent companion for those who respect his need for space and affection.


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5. Weaknesses and potential challenges of the breed


Despite their impeccable temperament, the Great Dane is a breed that presents unique challenges, primarily due to their enormous size and rapid growth in the first few months of life. Anyone considering adopting a Great Dane must be aware of these critical aspects regarding health, care, and life expectancy.


Major health challenges


Health is the most sensitive aspect of the breed. Due to its size and unique metabolism, the Great Dane is prone to certain, often serious, illnesses.


1. Gastric torsion (GDV – gastric dilatation-volvulus)


It is the most feared and potentially fatal disease, typical of breeds with a deep and narrow chest.

  • Risk: Gastric torsion occurs when the stomach twists, blocking the entrance and exit. This prevents the dog from swallowing and vomiting and blocks blood flow. It is a true veterinary emergency requiring immediate surgery.

  • Prevention: It is recommended to divide the daily ration into at least 2-3 meals and to avoid intense physical exertion (running, jumping) immediately before or after eating and drinking large amounts of water.


2. Osteoarticular problems


The extremely rapid growth (a puppy can reach 70 kg in less than a year) places considerable strain on the bones and joints and makes the Great Dane prone to:

  • Hip and elbow dysplasia: Joint deformities that can lead to osteoarthritis and chronic pain. It is important to monitor growth and prevent excessive weight gain and inappropriate physical activity at a young age.

  • Osteosarcoma: An aggressive type of bone cancer that occurs most frequently in giant breeds.

  • Panosteitis: Self-limiting inflammation of the long bones, typical of rapidly growing puppies.


3. Heart disease


Great Danes are prone to various heart diseases, particularly dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) , a weakening of the heart muscle that impairs its performance. Regular cardiac examinations (echocardiograms) are essential, even if no symptoms are present.


Physical and management weaknesses


  • Short life expectancy: Unfortunately, giant breeds generally have a shorter life expectancy than small and medium-sized breeds. The Great Dane lives an average of 6-8 years , making the time spent with them especially valuable.

  • Difficult growth: Puppyhood (up to 18–24 months) is crucial and requires constant monitoring of weight and physical activity. Jumping, frequent stair climbing, and long walks are only recommended once the skeleton is fully developed.

  • Sensitivity to cold: The short, smooth coat does not provide adequate protection against low temperatures. The Great Dane is sensitive to cold and requires adequate protection (e.g., a coat and a warm doghouse in winter).

  • Management costs: Food (for an 80 kg dog), medication, vet visits and equipment (leashes, kennels) are significantly more expensive than for a medium or small breed.

Overview table of challenges

Scope

Main challenge

Solution/Prevention Key

Digestive

Gastric torsion (GDV)

2-3 meals a day, rest after meals.

Orthopedics

Dysplasia, osteosarcoma

Slow growth through diet, avoid excessive exercise of the puppy.

cardiology

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)

Regular heart examinations (breed screening).

longevity

Short life expectancy (6-8 years)

Preventive veterinary care and a healthy lifestyle.

Daily care

Sensitivity to cold, salivation

Protective clothing in winter, frequent cleaning.

Keeping a Great Dane is a serious undertaking. It requires an informed , responsible owner who is willing to invest time and resources in the care and health of their gentle giant .


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6. Care, health and nutrition: A personalized approach


The care and feeding of the Great Dane requires a targeted and individualized approach, which is essential to maximize their (albeit short) life expectancy and avoid health problems related to their enormous size.


Nutrition: The key to growth and prevention


Nutrition is the cornerstone of the Great Dane's health, especially during puppyhood, when the goal is controlled growth to prevent joint and skeletal problems.


1. Puppy nutrition (up to 18-24 months)


  • Slow growth: Avoid high-calorie or high-calcium foods at all costs. Excessively rapid growth is the main risk factor for dysplasia and other bone problems. A special diet for "giant breeds" is recommended, as it promotes harmonious, less accelerated growth.

  • Meal frequency: Up to 6 months , 3-4 meals per day are recommended. After that, you can switch to 2 meals per day , a habit you should maintain into adulthood to minimize the risk of gastric torsion.


2. Nutrition for adults


  • Calorie Control: Adult Great Danes tend to be sedentary and have a slow metabolism . It's important to avoid excessive calorie intake to prevent obesity , which would worsen joint and cardiovascular problems (DCM).

  • Quality and ingredients: The diet, whether commercial (high-quality dry food) or homemade/BARF, must be rich in essential nutrients , especially:

    • Taurine and carnitine: Amino acids often added to the diet as a supplement to support heart function, as the breed is prone to dilated cardiomyopathy.

    • Chondroprotectors: Dietary supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM) recommended for joint health.

    • Fiber: Important for intestinal health and digestion.

  • Torsion management: In addition to meal planning, it is important:

    • Avoid strenuous physical activity and emotional stress immediately after eating .

    • Use raised bowls if necessary (ask your veterinarian, as their effectiveness is still controversial).


Hygiene and care


Grooming the Great Dane is relatively easy due to its short, smooth nature, but its size requires special attention.

  • Coat: Weekly brushing with a soft brush to remove dead hair and massage the skin. The Great Dane sheds moderately.

  • Oral hygiene: As with all dogs, dental cleaning is important, which is supported by the use of dry food or regular brushing.

  • Nails: They must be kept short so as not to alter the gait, especially in a breed with joint problems.

  • Drooling (washing): Like many Molossoids, the Great Dane drools, especially after drinking or eating. Regular cleaning of the muzzle and the home environment is necessary.

  • Rest: The Great Dane needs a well-padded, sufficiently large resting area . On hard surfaces, hygromas (fluid-filled sacs) can form on the elbows, which are annoying and unsightly.


Veterinary care plans


Given the health risks, prevention is crucial.

  • Growth checks: Frequent veterinary visits during the puppy stage to monitor skeletal development.

  • Heart examination: Regular checks for DCM are recommended at a young age in specimens intended for breeding or in all animals in general, provided there is a predisposition.

  • Parasite control: Vaccinations, deworming and antiparasitic treatments (filariasis, leishmaniasis) are essential and must be followed conscientiously.

Treatment and prevention table

Care area

Special requirements for the Great Dane

frequency

diet

Slow growing food (puppies), rich in taurine/carnitine (adults).

Daily (2-3 meals)

Torsion protection

Rest after meals and do not drink too much water after activity.

Daily

Hair/Care

Brushing, cleaning the muzzle (drool).

Weekly/Daily

Relax

Soft and padded dog bed, appropriate size.

Daily

Health

Heart screening (DCM), joint check.

Annually/On veterinary advice

A well-groomed and well-nourished Great Dane who undergoes regular veterinary examinations has the best chance of living a happy, albeit short, life and avoiding or controlling breed-specific diseases.


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7. Breed behavior in the family: Who is it suitable for?


The Great Dane is a family dog par excellence. Their familial nature is the main reason why they remain one of the most popular breeds, despite logistical and health challenges. However, they are not the right choice for everyone. Their adaptability and their specific needs define the profile of the ideal owner.


Behavior at home: The “living room giant”


  • Unconditional love: The Great Dane is very affectionate and devoted to its owners. It's the classic dog that follows its owner everywhere, even to the bathroom. This need for closeness means it can't live alone for long.

  • Gentleness and adaptability: Despite his size, he is surprisingly gentle and aware of his size at home. He is not a destructive dog and quickly learns to navigate tight spaces. However, he does need floor space to lie comfortably (on a soft bed) and a tail-proof environment (he can easily sweep up low objects).

  • Tolerance and patience: The Great Dane possesses a very high level of patience , making them an excellent companion for children. They love to cuddle and are playful. However, it is important that playtime is supervised to prevent the dog from accidentally bumping into or knocking over a small child due to their strength and energy.


Living together with other animals


  • Sociability: In general, the Great Dane is very sociable and tolerant of other dogs and cats, especially if it has been well socialized since puppyhood.

  • Beware of other dogs: Some lines can show a certain dominance towards dogs of the same sex or similar size, but this behavior can be controlled through strict, consistent and patient training.


The Great Dane and the Guardian


It is important to emphasize that the Great Dane is a protector of the person and not a guardian of the territory.

  • Reserved: He is naturally reserved toward strangers, but his inner security prevents him from becoming reactive or nervous. He reacts vigilantly and intervenes only in the case of a direct threat.


Who is the Great Dane suitable for?


The Great Dane is an excellent choice, but requires a special owner who can respond to their specific needs:

Ideal owner

Description of the required properties

Experience

Ideally, someone with experience with large breeds or molossoids . Due to the training and size control required, it is not the best choice for first-time owners.

Financial commitment

It must be able to bear the high costs of feeding (large quantities), prophylaxis and veterinary care (more frequent and more complex).

Time and affection

He must be present at home at all times . The Great Dane must live with a family; he is not a dog that can be isolated.

Quiet and relaxed driving

It requires training based on respect and consistency , never on coercive methods. It requires clear and trustworthy leadership, not an authoritarian master.

Room (not necessarily external)

It must have enough space to move around the house comfortably and preferably access to a garden (although the garden does not replace human contact).

The Great Dane embodies the phrase "big in size, big in heart." He is a loyal and devoted companion, but adopting such a breed is a 6-8-year commitment, a time during which you must fully devote yourself to his health and emotional well-being.


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8. Famous examples: Royal, cinematic and historical icons


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The imposing size and statuesque figure of the Great Dane have captured the imagination of artists, writers and filmmakers, making it an icon not only in royal courts but also in film and animation.


The Great Dane in history and at royal courts


Since the Renaissance, the Great Dane has been the favorite dog of noblemen and aristocrats and has become a true symbol of power and wealth .

  • The escort of the nobility: At European courts, Alans were often depicted alongside their noble owners. They were kept as personal escort dogs and guarded the royal chambers and apartments.

  • The German Court: As the German national breed, the Great Dane was particularly popular with the German-speaking nobility.

  • King Rama X of Thailand: Even in more recent times, the Great Dane has retained its royal status. King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) is known to have adopted Great Danes.


Icons of literature and film


His charismatic figure and the contrast between his massive appearance and his good-natured nature have made him an ideal figure for literature, often as a comic protagonist or as a symbol of loyalty.


Scooby-Doo (animation)


The most famous Great Dane in the world is undoubtedly Scooby-Doo , protagonist of the hit animated series "Scooby-Doo, Where Are You?" and its numerous spin-offs. The character perfectly embodies the soul of the Great Dane:

  • Appearance: The classic Great Dane physique (albeit in an anthropomorphic version).

  • Personality: He is the epitome of docileness and timidity , often frightened, and more interested in food than ghost hunting. This portrayal reinforces the idea of the "gentle giant," who, while intimidating, is actually a true coward.


Samson (comics and cartoons)


Another iconic Great Dane is Marmaduke, the protagonist of a comic book series created by Brad Anderson and subsequent film adaptations.

  • Role: Samson is a clumsy, hyperactive, and awkward dog who regularly causes chaos due to his disproportionate size, but is unconditionally loved by his family, highlighting the more comical and clumsy side of the breed.


The Great Dane in the cinema


Several Great Danes have appeared on screen, playing roles ranging from guards to loyal friends:

  • Brutus in “The Ugly Dachshund” (Disney, 1966): Brutus is the adorable Great Dane who, despite everything, has to take care of a litter of dachshunds and shows the patience and affection typical of this breed.

  • Ivan the Terrible XXXII in The Second Tragic Fantozzi : Even if the role is comic and the Great Dane is presented as a fierce and trained guard dog, it is an example of how the breed was associated with the idea of an elite guard (Countess Serbelloni Mazzanti Viendalmare).


The Great Dane in literature


  • Bendicò in The Leopard : In Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa's masterpiece, Bendicò is the beloved Great Dane of the Prince of Salina, a symbol of unwavering loyalty and ancient nobility. His presence is crucial, and his death symbolically represents the end of an era.

These examples, both real and fictional, have cemented the image of the Great Dane in the collective imagination as an animal of unparalleled physical presence and noble spirit , a true titan with a gentle and loyal personality.

symbol

Average

Role / Symbolism

Scooby-Doo

animation

Gentle giant, cowardly, greedy (good-natured character of the breed).

Samson (Marmaduke)

Comics/Movies

Clumsy, awkward, but loving (Great Comedy).

Bendico

Literature ( The Leopard )

Loyalty, nobility, symbol of an era.

Brutus

Cinema ( The Beagle Boys... )

Affection, patience, maternal/protective sense.



 
 
 

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