Contents
- Top 21 Most Popular Great Dane Mixed Breeds
- 1. Great Danesky = Great Dane + Siberian Husky
- 2. Boxane = Great Dane + Boxer
- 3. Great Labradane = Great Dane + Labrador Retriever
- 4. Great Danoodle = Great Dane + Standard Poodle
- 5. Great German = Great Dane + German Shepherd
- 6. Great Border Collie = Great Dane + Border Collie
- 7. Great Danebull = Great Dane + American Pit Bull Terrier
- 8. Daniff = Great Dane + Mastiff
- 9. Saint Dane = Great Dane + Saint Bernard
- 10. Great Pyredane = Great Dane + Great Pyrenees
- 11. Great Retriever = Great Dane + Golden Retriever
- 12. Doberdane = Great Dane + Doberman Pinscher
- 13. American Bull Dane = Great Dane + American Bulldog
- 14. Weiler Dane = Great Dane + Rottweiler
- 15. American Foxy Dane = Great Dane + American Foxhound
- 16. Great Dasenji = Great Dane + Basenji
- 17. Irish Dane = Great Dane + Irish Wolfound
- 18. Weimar Dane = Great Dane + Weimaraner
- 19. Great Hound = Great Dane + Bloodhound
- 20. Plush Danois = Great Dane + Anatolian Shepherd
- 21. Greater Swiss Mountain Dane = Great Dane + Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
- Great Dane Mix Food Requirements
- Where to Buy or Adopt a Great Dane Mix
- Conclusion
When people see Great Danes, they often stare at them in awe because of how large they are. Great Danes typically weigh 100 to 200 pounds, making them one of the largest dog breeds out there. They were initially bred to protect country estates and hunt wild boar, but today they’re mostly kept as companions.
Great Dane mixes are much more modern than the well-known Great Dane. Some people breed these mixes due to their beautiful and majestic appearances while others are accidentally bred and end up in shelters. Either way, there’s no denying that these big dogs are exceptional, especially if you love large breeds.
Unfortunately, Great Danes are one of the shortest living dog breeds though, only living for about 6 to 8 years. Therefore, it’s possible that Great Dane mixes could have short lifespans too, especially if they’re mixed with another large, short-living breed. However, their short time with us is never wasted because these mixes are such loving, gentle, and friendly dogs. That’s why Great Danes and Great Dane mixes have become so popular over the years.
Top 21 Most Popular Great Dane Mixed Breeds
Like all dog breeds, Great Danes can be mixed with just about any other dog breed. However, they are most commonly mixed with other large dogs that have similar traits. Here are some of the most common and most intriguing Great Dane mixes. You’re sure to fall in love with each and every one.
Great Dane Mix Name | Description |
---|---|
Great Danesky | Active dogs that need a large home. A mixture of loving and stubborn. |
Boxane | Playful, friendly, and sensitive dogs. Ideal for loving, active families. |
Great Labradane | Friendly, gentle giants that get along well with new people, especially children. |
Great Danoodle | An intelligent, low-shedding mix that can have a stubborn streak. |
Great German | Protective, energetic dogs that always want to go on adventures and be by your side. |
Great Border Collie | An intelligent mix that can quickly pick up on new tricks and commands with an assertive handler. |
Great Danebull | Sensitive, loving dogs that always want to comfort and please their loved ones. |
Daniff | Gentle giants that are the perfect mix between lazy and energetic. |
Saint Dane | Massive, easygoing dogs that prefer to sleep and spend time with children. |
Great Pyredane | Protective dogs that love to roam around and spend time outside. |
Great Retriever | Friendly dogs that love playing with their families more than anything. |
Doberdane | Athletic dogs with minimal grooming needs. They require lots of love and attention. |
American Bull Dane | A laid back mix that loves playing games and guarding their loved ones. |
Weiler Dane | A strong, gentle mix that loves to cuddle despite their intimidating looks. |
American Foxy Dane | Energetic, protective dogs that are incredibly easy to train. |
Great Dasenji | Smaller, energetic mixes that need a lot of playtime and mental stimulation. |
Irish Dane | A giant, lazy mix that prefers naps over intense exercise. |
Weimar Dane | Vocal dogs that need plenty of training and socialization from the start. |
Great Hound | Family-oriented dogs with a high prey drive. A mix of both independent and clingy. |
Plush Danois | A loyal, high maintenance mix that has high training, exercise, and grooming requirements. |
Greater Swiss Mountain Dane | A massive mixed breed that needs lots of room to roam and play. |
My Recommendation:
If you’re looking for a good family dog, you should go with a Boxane, Great Retriever, or Great Hound. Plus, the Great Labradane, Daniff, and Great Danebull are especially good with kids.
If you’re looking for a mixed breed with minimal shedding, you should choose a Great Danoodle or Doberdane.
If you’re looking for an exercise buddy, then a Great Danesky, Great Border Collie, and American Foxy Dane are great choices.
Finally, if you’re looking for a more laid back dog, you should consider an Irish Dane or Saint Dane.
1. Great Danesky = Great Dane + Siberian Husky
Life Span | 10 to 12 years |
Temperament | Sweet, gentle, loyal, active |
Average Height | 21 inches to 35 inches |
Average Weight | 130 pounds to 190 pounds |
Trainability | Difficult to train |
Exercise Needs | High – Daily physical activity |
This mixed breed is the perfect mix of the Great Dane’s massive structure and the Husky’s beautiful coat and eyes. Like Great Danes, they are gentle, but they’re also independent like a Husky. They need lots of exercise due to their large structure. Great Danes can be lazy from time to time, but Huskies love to run around and play, so this mixed breed is the perfect mix between the two. Therefore, this mix is not suitable for a small home, and they should have a fenced-in yard if possible.
Great Danes and Huskies have very different coat types. Great Danes have thin coats while Huskies have thick, double coats that are meant to withstand extremely cold weather conditions. However, your Danesky’s coat type could fall anywhere in between. Some Daneskies have thin, manageable coats like Great Danes while others could have thick, high maintenance coats like a Husky. They will also likely have bright blue eyes like a Husky, but it’s not a guaranteed trait.
Most Daneskies will get along with kids, much like both their parents. However, they should not be kept in a household with other small pets because they have a high prey drive. Training these mixed breeds is also difficult because neither of their parents are easy to train. Huskies are generally independent and stubborn while Great Danes can be moody now and then. Therefore, you’ll need lots of patience and consistency when it comes to training.
2. Boxane = Great Dane + Boxer
Life Span | 8 to 10 years |
Temperament | Playful, sensitive, gentle, loving, friendly |
Average Height | 22 inches to 33 inches |
Average Weight | 60 pounds to 150 pounds |
Trainability | Moderate |
Exercise Needs | High – Daily physical activity |
Sometimes referred to as the “Great Boxer”, this breed is extra playful, just like a Boxer. Their size can vary greatly, being closer to a Boxer’s weight at 60 pounds or reaching all the way up to 150 pounds like a Great Dane. This mixed breed will always have a short coat, just like both the parents. They could develop a short snout like a Boxer though, making them prone to breathing problems.
Boxane love to exercise. They enjoy running around and playing with their family members more than anything else. They’re outgoing dogs that get along with just about everyone they meet. This makes them great for all types of families, even with young children. However, they need a large home with a big yard for them to run around and play in.
These dogs can be easy to train, but they’re often stubborn. They’re also extremely sensitive like Boxers, so they don’t respond well to punishments. Therefore, you should be careful to never punish your Boxane and focus on positive reinforcements instead. You’ll need to be patient and kind during training, but eventually, they’ll get the hang of it.
3. Great Labradane = Great Dane + Labrador Retriever
Life Span | 8 to 12 years |
Temperament | Friendly, loyal, energetic, gentle |
Average Height | 24 inches to 30 inches |
Average Weight | 100 pounds to 180 pounds |
Trainability | Easy to Train |
Exercise Needs | High – Daily physical activity |
Labradanes are a popular mixed breed because they’re mixed with one of the most popular dog breeds out there. Similar to both their parents, they’re great family dogs that are extremely gentle. They’re a very large breed, which means they need plenty of exercise and playtime daily. This also means that they would do best in a home with lots of space and possibly even a fenced-in yard.
These dogs are social and get along with just about everyone they meet. They are great for families with children, but they have a high prey drive, which means they shouldn’t be in homes with small animals. They also should never be left outside unattended just in case they see a critter they want to chase. These dogs are also heavy shedders and should be brushed as much as possible.
This mixed breed was first popular in the 1980s, which was when people started becoming obsessed with “designer” dog mixes. While most people were interested in smaller mixed breeds, lots of people quickly fell in love with this large mutt. However, even though they’re popular, many people fail to realize that they have advanced care requirements.
4. Great Danoodle = Great Dane + Standard Poodle
Life Span | 8 to 13 years |
Temperament | Intelligent, social, friendly, energetic |
Average Height | 28 inches to 30 inches |
Average Weight | 90 pounds to 110 pounds |
Trainability | Easy to Train |
Exercise Needs | High – Daily physical activity |
Also known as the “Great Poodane”, this breed is known for its soft coat. Sometimes, they have short, wiry coats like their Great Dane parents, but they often have the curly coats of a Poodle instead, which would make them a low-shedding breed. Both of the parents are known for their tall structures, so this is guaranteed to be a large mixed breed.
Poodles are highly intelligent dogs, so it’s expected that your Great Danoodle will be too. These dogs can have a stubborn streak from time to time, but with enough consistency and positive reinforcements, they’ll learn quickly. They’ll also need plenty of exercise due to their energetic personalities.
These dogs are often friendly and social, but they can be hesitant around strangers. However, at all ages, they adore their family members. They’ll want to spend as much time near you as possible, especially if it consists of lots of playtime.
Read more: 44 Types of Poodle Mixes
5. Great German = Great Dane + German Shepherd
Life Span | 7 to 10 years |
Temperament | Brave, intelligent, friendly, patient, loyal |
Average Height | 22 inches to 32 inches |
Average Weight | 50 pounds to 175 pounds |
Trainability | Easy to Train |
Exercise Needs | High – Daily physical activity |
Great Germans can come in a wide variety of appearances. Some will be smaller, closer to 50 pounds, while others can reach up to 175 pounds! Their coats can also vary between the short coat of a Great Dane and the long, fluffy coat of a German Shepherd. So, grooming requirements will depend on which type of coat your mixed breed has. Either way, they will likely shed often like a Great Dane, so frequent brushing is essential.
These dogs are friendly and energetic, but they can be hesitant around unfamiliar people. Therefore, if you get them as a puppy, you’ll need to give them plenty of socialization to help them be friendlier. Due to their German Shepherd parent, they should be highly intelligent and great when it comes to training.
An important thing about this mixed breed is that they love their humans. They always want to be near you if possible, which also means they’re prone to separation anxiety. The less time they can be left alone, the happier they’ll be. They act this way because they’re very protective over you and just want to make sure you’re safe at all times.
Read more: Top 32 Most Adorable German Shepherd Mix Breeds That You Will Love
6. Great Border Collie = Great Dane + Border Collie
Life Span | 10 to 12 years |
Temperament | Intelligent, active, brave, protective, well-behaved. |
Average Height | 20 inches to 30 inches |
Average Weight | 50 pounds to 110 pounds |
Trainability | Easy to Train |
Exercise Needs | High – Daily physical activity |
Great Border Collies are a less common mixed breed, but they’re equally as incredible. Border Collies are one of the best behaved dog breeds due to their high intelligence and trainability. Therefore, these mixed breeds usually gain a lot of those desirable traits. These mixed breeds usually have shorter coats like a Great Dane, but it’s possible for them to be fluffier like a Border Collie.
These mixed breeds can be easy to train, but they can be stubborn and independent from time to time. So, they need a strong, firm handler that won’t lose patience. With plenty of repetition and consistency, these dogs can learn all kinds of fun tricks on top of basic commands.
In general, this breed is usually friendly, but they can be hesitant around strangers. Because of this, they’re great watchdogs, but they should get plenty of socialization to help them get used to unfamiliar people. Since Border Collies are high energy dogs, they also need lots of attention. They love to exercise and play, so they need plenty of mental stimulation toys and activities to prevent them from gaining destructive behaviors.
7. Great Danebull = Great Dane + American Pit Bull Terrier
Life Span | 10 to 14 years |
Temperament | Friendly, affectionate, gentle, sensitive |
Average Height | 24 inches to 28 inches |
Average Weight | 60 pounds to 90 pounds |
Trainability | Moderate |
Exercise Needs | High – Daily physical activity |
This mixed breed can have a lot of varieties because the name “Great Danebull” or “Great Pitbull” can refer to any Pit Bull breed, not just American Pit Bull Terriers. “Pit Bull” doesn’t just refer to one breed, but instead, it’s a term used to describe multiple large, muscular breeds, including the American Pit Bull Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. All of these breeds have similar characteristics, and they all make great companions. So, this mixed breed has an equally lovable personality.
Since both breeds have short coats, the Great Danebull will always have a short, smooth coat. They can have a wide variety of coat colors, along with a wide variety of sizes. They are smaller than most Great Dane mixes, but they are usually solid. They typically only weigh up to 90 pounds. They usually have a high level of intelligence too, but they’re a sensitive mixed breed. They don’t handle punishments well, so you should focus on positive reinforcements with training.
These dogs might look intimidating, but they’re one of the sweetest, most gentle mixed breeds you can choose. Unfortunately, a lot of them end up in shelters due to their “Pit Bull” label, but they are great dogs for families. They’re affectionate around just about everyone they meet, even children. They need lots of exercise and playtime, especially since they love spending quality time with loved ones.
8. Daniff = Great Dane + Mastiff
Life Span | 10 to 12 years |
Temperament | Intelligent, gentle, lovable, quiet |
Average Height | 27 inches to 33 inches |
Average Weight | 115 pounds to 200 pounds |
Trainability | Moderate |
Exercise Needs | Moderate – Daily physical activity |
By breeding two giant dogs together, you’re guaranteed to get one massive pup. The Daniff, also referred to as the “Great Mastiff”, truly lives up to the mixed breed’s expectation. In fact, some of these dogs have been known to reach over 200 pounds! However, they are one of the most laidback mixed breeds you’ll find. They are extremely gentle for their size, and they’ll be sure to give you lots of love. They are especially great around children.
Despite being so large, these dogs don’t need as much exercise as most large mixed breeds. Of course, they need daily exercise, but they’ll be perfectly content lounging around afterwards. They’re very protective over their loved ones, but they’re usually quiet too. It’s unlikely that they’ll bark a lot unless something is seriously wrong.
These mixed breeds are smart, which should make training easy. However, they can be stubborn from time to time, which can make training difficult. Only practice training for short periods of time throughout the day to ensure that your Daniff doesn’t lose interest. They’re the best behaved if they start training and socialization as a puppy.
9. Saint Dane = Great Dane + Saint Bernard
Life Span | 6 to 10 years |
Temperament | Gentle, friendly, protective, sensitive |
Average Height | 23 inches to 32 inches |
Average Weight | 140 pounds to 200 pounds |
Trainability | Moderate |
Exercise Needs | Moderate – Daily physical activity |
This mixed breed goes by many names, including the “Great Bernard” or “Saint Great Dane”. Oftentimes, they have the thick coat of a Saint Bernard, but it’s possible for them to have short, thin coats too. Both of the parents are some of the largest dog breeds out there, so this mixed breed will always be massive. Expect to spend a lot of money on food since these dogs love to eat.
These large dogs don’t live very long, but they’re great to have around. They’re friendly and they become easily attached to their loved ones. They’re great guard dogs, always on the lookout for danger. They especially love being around kids because of the mix’s gentle temperament. They’re easygoing, but they’re not recommended for families that live in small spaces.
This mixed breed is more relaxed than other large dogs. They still need daily exercise, but they don’t need any extreme exercise routines. Regular walks and playtime are suitable enough for them. After all, they prefer to sleep most of the day anyway. They can be easy to train, but they’re another sensitive breed. Therefore, they respond best to positive reinforcement and no punishments.
10. Great Pyredane = Great Dane + Great Pyrenees
Life Span | 8 to 12 years |
Temperament | Active, strong, sensitive, playful |
Average Height | 28 inches to 35 inches |
Average Weight | 95 pounds to 140 pounds |
Trainability | Moderate |
Exercise Needs | High – Daily physical activity |
With two dog breeds labeled “great” mixed together, it’s no surprise that this mixed breed is equally as great. The Great Dane and Great Pyrenees are both massive, but they have very different appearances. Therefore, the Great Pyredane can have a wide variety of appearances too. Sometimes, they’ll have fluffy coats like the Great Pyrenees, but their coats can also be shorter like the Great Dane. Their colors can vary too, often including some white fur. Great Pyredanes are often considered a “designer” mixed breed, due to their beautiful appearance.
Despite their large size, these mixed breeds actually don’t need intense exercise. They need daily walks and playtime, but they’re often fairly lazy. They do love exploring the outdoors though, so they’d do best in a home with a fenced-in yard. They’re not a good breed for families living in small apartments because they need lots of room to roam. They’re very protective over their loved ones, so they’re always on the lookout for danger.
Great Pyredanes get along with most people. In fact, they are incredibly calm and tolerant around children. However, they are also a very sensitive breed. They care a lot about what their humans think about them, so they will often seek extra attention. Because of this, they respond best to positive reinforcement. They can be independent from time to time though too.
11. Great Retriever = Great Dane + Golden Retriever
Life Span | 10 to 13 years |
Temperament | Attentive, brave, loyal, lazy, playful. |
Average Height | 27 inches to 35 inches |
Average Weight | 100 pounds to 200 pounds |
Trainability | Easy to train |
Exercise Needs | Moderate – Daily physical activity |
This mixed breed is rare, which is surprising because of how lovable Golden Retrievers are. Great Retrievers are sometimes also referred to as “Great Golden Danes”. They are large, intelligent dogs, much like both of their parents. They love playtime above all else, so they’ll keep you busy at all times. With so much energy to burn, they need high amounts of exercise on a daily basis.
Despite their intelligence, Great Retrievers can get easily distracted. They’d much rather play with you than listen to commands. So, you’ll need to start training at an early age. They need to learn from someone who’s assertive and not willing to give into their puppy dog eyes. Since they love you so much, they’re also prone to separation anxiety. They’ll likely make a big fuss whenever they’re left alone, and they’ll always follow you like a shadow.
The appearance of these dogs is a guessing game. They will be large no matter what, but some could be as small as 75 pounds or as large as 140 pounds. Some might look like a giant Golden Retriever while others might more closely resemble a gold Great Dane. Therefore, breeding these two dogs together can be unpredictable.
12. Doberdane = Great Dane + Doberman Pinscher
Life Span | 8 to 12 years |
Temperament | Active, strong, sensitive, playful |
Average Height | 28 inches to 35 inches |
Average Weight | 95 pounds to 140 pounds |
Trainability | Moderate |
Exercise Needs | High – Daily physical activity |
Doberdanes make great guard dogs, but they can also be excellent family members. Doberman Pinschers are often given a bad reputation for their intimidating appearance. However, they’re actually a playful and sensitive breed. However, as lovable as this mixed breed is, these dogs are not recommended for inexperienced dog parents. This is because they have a lot of energy that shouldn’t be contained.
These mixed breeds need more than enough space to run around. They won’t do well in a small apartment. Instead, they need a large home with a fenced-in yard. They require intense exercise every day, which can include running, hiking, and agility. Ideally, over an hour a day is perfect. On top of that, they still need plenty of cuddles and playtime. Therefore, they’d prefer a family that has a lot of free time to care for them.
Grooming is the one care requirement that isn’t too difficult to handle. These mixed breeds are guaranteed to have a short coat with moderate shedding. Therefore, weekly brushing and occasional baths are enough to keep them clean and healthy.
13. American Bull Dane = Great Dane + American Bulldog
Life Span | 10 to 13 years |
Temperament | Attentive, brave, loyal, lazy, playful |
Average Height | 27 inches to 35 inches |
Average Weight | 100 pounds to 200 pounds |
Trainability | Easy to train |
Exercise Needs | Moderate – Daily physical activity |
This mixed breed closely resembles the Great Danebull. This is because the American Bulldog and the American Pit Bull Terrier share some similar traits. In fact, the American Bulldog is sometimes even labeled as a Pit Bull breed due to its large, muscular build. Therefore, this mixed breed results in a strong, massive dog. However, their personality doesn’t necessarily match their looks.
American Bull Danes can be known to be great guard dogs because of their devotion to their loved ones. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are actually sweet, sensitive pups. When they’re not on the lookout for danger, they’re guaranteed to be snuggling or playing with their loved ones. Unlike most large mixed breeds, these dogs don’t need too much exercise. They love to go for daily walks, but they also prefer having lots of time to sleep on the couch.
These dogs will also have short hair with moderate shedding. Their coat coloring will vary based on what the parents look like. It’s possible for them to inherit the flat face of an American Bulldog, but it’s not a guarantee. If they do inherit the brachycephalic characteristic, you need to make sure they don’t spend too much time outside during hot days. Otherwise, they could suffer from breathing problems and heat stroke.
14. Weiler Dane = Great Dane + Rottweiler
Life Span | 12 to 15 years |
Temperament | Gentle, strong, easygoing, sensitive. |
Average Height | 32 inches to 33 inches |
Average Weight | 100 pounds to 175 pounds |
Trainability | Moderate |
Exercise Needs | Moderate – Daily physical activity |
The Weiler Dane is a large, muscular mixed breed that is well over 100 pounds. However, despite being so large, it has been reported to live longer than most large mixed breeds. It usually lives between 12 and 15 years, which more closely resembles the lifespan of a small dog. In fact, both Great Danes and Rottweilers have short lifespans, so this trait is unusual.
Despite their massive size, these dogs don’t require intense exercise. Instead, they only require daily walks, but they love to cuddle with you and take naps for the remainder of the day. These dogs might look intimidating, but they’re extremely loving and sensitive. Unlike other Great Dane mixes, they don’t have a wide range of variety. They’re almost always a solid coat color, either black or dark brown. They usually look a lot like a tall Rottweiler.
These dogs are gentle, much like both their parents. They have a big heart, which allows them to quickly bond with their family members, especially with children. If raised with other animals, this mixed breed can learn to get along with them, even if they’re small critters. They can be a bit difficult when it comes to training, so they need someone authoritative and patient to work on manners with them. Otherwise, they’ll be difficult to control.
Read more: Top 20 Brilliant Rottweiler Mixes You Won’t Want to Miss
15. American Foxy Dane = Great Dane + American Foxhound
Life Span | 9 to 11 years |
Temperament | Loyal, affectionate, intelligent, easygoing |
Average Height | 25 inches to 29 inches |
Average Weight | 44 pounds to 70 pounds |
Trainability | Very easy to train |
Exercise Needs | High – Daily physical activity |
This mixed breed falls on the smaller side, often weighing below 70 pounds. This is unusual considering the massive weight of a Great Dane. However, they are fast dogs that need plenty of exercise and attention. They enjoy daily walks, but they’re also active enough to run alongside you on a bike. They will never get sick of playtime, especially if it includes an intense game of fetch or tug-of-war. Therefore, they are best suited for families that like to exercise and go on adventures.
American Foxy Danes are one of the easiest Great Dane Mixes to train. They can learn new commands quickly, and they respond well to positive reinforcements. However, if they make a mistake, you should refrain from punishing them because they are extremely sensitive. Instead, continuously reassure them that they’re doing a great job and take plenty of breaks to play with them.
These dogs are great at guarding their homes and keeping an eye out for danger. However, they’re actually calm, gentle dogs. They’re a little shy around new people, but they can easily warm up to someone once they spend some time with them. Playing games with them is the key to winning their heart.
16. Great Dasenji = Great Dane + Basenji
Life Span | 6 to 14 years |
Temperament | Intelligent, loyal, energetic, gentle |
Average Height | 23 inches to 25 inches |
Average Weight | 60 pounds to 85 pounds |
Trainability | Easy to train |
Exercise Needs | High – Daily physical activity |
The Great Dasenji is an unusual mixed breed. They’re smaller than most Great Dane mixes, and their colors can vary greatly based on their Great Dane parent’s coat. Some Great Dasenjis only live for a short period of time like a Great Dane while others can have the long lifespan like a Basenji. So, this mix can be rather unpredictable.
Basenjis are a medium-sized breed, but they still have high energy levels. They need plenty of time to run around and play each day. However, they don’t do well in extremely hot or cold temperatures, so they shouldn’t be left outside for long periods of time. Instead, spread out their playtime and exercise time into smaller segments throughout the day. They’re also an intelligent mix, so they need mental stimulation just as much as exercise.
In general, these mixed breeds are easy to train, but they can inherit some of the Basenji’s stubbornness. As friendly as Basenjis are, they can be independent. So, they might not always be willing to participate in training. Additionally, they might be hesitant around people they aren’t familiar with. However, they’re loyal and gentle around those they care about.
17. Irish Dane = Great Dane + Irish Wolfound
Life Span | 7 to 10 years |
Temperament | Gentle, lazy, loyal, quiet |
Average Height | 32 inches to 38 inches |
Average Weight | 120 pounds to 180 pounds |
Trainability | Easy to train |
Exercise Needs | Low – Daily walks |
This mixed breed is also commonly referred to as the “Wolfhound Dane”. As you can imagine, these dogs are as big as they sound. They always stand over 30 inches tall and weigh over 120 pounds. Therefore, they need a house with lots of room to roam and a family that can afford their large amounts of food. Plus, they’re tall enough to grab food off the counter, so you’ll have to keep a close eye on them.
As impressive as these large dogs are, they sure don’t act their size. They’re actually one of the lazier Great Dane mixes. They enjoy going for daily walks, but they’re not great running companions. They also aren’t the most playful breed since they show very little interest in games like fetch. Instead, these dogs act like seniors right from the start. They love to lounge around and take naps more than anything else.
Much like Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds, these mixed breeds are also gentle giants. They are kind around nearly everyone they meet, especially children. They might look intimidating, but they’re not good guard dogs. Oftentimes, they’re too busy relaxing to be on the lookout for danger. Additionally, they rarely bark, which is a good thing since large dogs can have loud, obnoxious barks.
18. Weimar Dane = Great Dane + Weimaraner
Life Span | 7 to 11 years |
Temperament | Energetic, intelligent, vocal, friendly |
Average Height | 25 inches to 31 inches |
Average Weight | 75 pounds to 145 pounds |
Trainability | Very easy to train |
Exercise Needs | High – Daily physical activity |
The Weimar Dane is a desirable mixed breed because the Weimaraner and Great Dane are both hunting dogs from Germany. Therefore, they’re a compatible pair. This also makes them fairly athletic. They require over an hour of exercise each day, along with some mental stimulation to keep them busy. If they don’t get enough activities to satisfy their needs, they could resort to destructive behaviors. They can have a mellow side too, thanks to their Great Dane genetics. So, that makes them an ideal balance between calm and energetic.
They are a friendly mixed breed that loves to spend time with their family. They get along well with people and other animals, but they can become shy if not properly socialized. They are one of the easiest Great Dane mixes to train, as long as you don’t punish them for bad behaviors. Oftentimes, these dogs look a lot like larger Weimaraners, but they can actually have a wide range of coat colors, depending on what the Great Dane parent looks like.
Since these dogs usually have a lot of energy, they can also be loud. They love to hear the sound of their own voice, and if they want more attention, they’ll be sure to let you know. Additionally, they need a large home to contain their size and energy, so they are not suitable for apartment settings. They thrive best in a house with a large fenced-in yard to play in.
19. Great Hound = Great Dane + Bloodhound
Life Span | 10 to 12 years |
Temperament | Affectionate, playful, alert, curious |
Average Height | 23 inches to 29 inches |
Average Weight | 90 pounds to 150 pounds |
Trainability | Moderate |
Exercise Needs | Moderate– Daily physical activity |
Great Hounds are just as friendly as both their parents, and they often don’t know how big they really are. They are family-oriented dogs, so spending time with their loved ones is more important than anything else. They can get along with other animals in the household if they are properly socialized. However, they have a high prey drive, so they might not do well with small pets.
These dogs can be a bit stubborn when it comes to training. They need a family who is strong and consistent with commands. Otherwise, your Great Hound might try to boss you around. They can be energetic, but if they get daily exercise, they should be more relaxed and obedient. Therefore, it’s best to try training them after long walks. When playing with them, it’s important to never let them off leash due to their instinct of chasing small animals.
They can be independent from time to time, but they are not happy being left alone for long periods of time. They can develop separation anxiety, making them loud and destructive if they don’t get their way. This is another reason why training them is so important.
20. Plush Danois = Great Dane + Anatolian Shepherd
Life Span | 7 to 12 years |
Temperament | Protective, stubborn, strong, loyal |
Average Height | 30 inches to 36 inches |
Average Weight | 110 pounds to 180 pounds |
Trainability | Difficult to train |
Exercise Needs | High – Daily physical activity |
The name of this mixed breed is a little misleading, but it’s another mix between two massive dogs. Therefore, this mix always exceeds 100 pounds and stands taller than 30 inches. They shed a lot, so daily brushing is required. Their coat is often short like a Great Dane’s, but still thick like an Anatolian Shepherd’s. Additionally, the coat color of this mixed breed can greatly vary, but it’s usually light colored.
These dogs are not recommended for inexperienced dog parents. They have high exercise requirements and they’re not easy to train. They are hesitant and sometimes even aggressive around strangers, so they need to work on socialization right away. Firm, consistent training is also important, so they need someone who will be patient with them and not let their bad behaviors slide. If they don’t learn manners early on, they could be difficult to walk on a leash.
As for exercise, these dogs need over an hour of intense exercise each day. Therefore, they’re not suitable for small apartments. They need a home with lots of room to roam and preferably a large yard. They are protective over their loved ones, so they will often follow humans around to act as a guard for them.
21. Greater Swiss Mountain Dane = Great Dane + Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Life Span | 6 to 11 years |
Temperament | Independent, protective, gentle, affectionate |
Average Height | 23 inches to 33 inches |
Average Weight | 80 pounds to 200 pounds |
Trainability | Very easy to train |
Exercise Needs | High – Daily physical activity |
Once again, two dogs with “great” in their names make an equally great mixed breed. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a lesser known purebred, but they look like a short-haired Bernese Mountain Dog with the structure of a Great Dane. As you can imagine, this makes the mixed breed of these two look even more incredible. These dogs usually have the coloring of a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, but these colors can vary.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dane loves having plenty of room to roam throughout the day. Ideally, they’d also love a large, fenced-in yard to play in too. These gentle giants can be lazy, but they also love going on multiple long walks throughout the day. They are an intelligent mixed breed that loves to learn, so training is much easier with them than it is for other Great Dane mixes.
However, this mix is also known to be more independent than similar mixed breeds. They can be cuddly and affectionate, but they also prefer to have time to themselves now and then. They’re also great protectors, always on the lookout for danger. However, if they spot anything suspicious, they will let out a loud bark to alert you, which can get old quickly. They can definitely be stubborn when they set their mind to something, but for the most part, they’re well-behaved dogs.
Great Dane Mix Food Requirements
Since Great Danes are giant breeds that are often bred with other large dogs, Great Dane mixes need a lot of food. Their food requirements alone could cost you a fortune. Therefore, you should make sure you’re able to afford enough food for these giant mixed breeds before bringing one home.
Read more: Top 10 Best Dog Foods for Large Breeds
Since most of these mixed breeds weigh over 100 pounds, they often need 2,500 to 3,000 calories a day. Each cup of dog food is only about 350 to 450 calories. So, they’ll usually need between 4 and 8 cups a day, depending on the size of your dog. You could end up going through a large bag of dog food in only a week or so.
Most of these mixed breeds are also high energy dogs. Therefore, they would likely do best on a high protein diet to fit with their energy levels. You might need to adjust the serving sizes based on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level, but ideally, high meat formulas are best for Great Dane mixes. Always make sure you check the label for quality meat sources and minimal filler ingredients before choosing a food though.
Where to Buy or Adopt a Great Dane Mix
Most of the time, these unique mixed breeds will only be found at special breeders. However, it’s always possible to come across them at shelters and rescues too. In fact, you should always start by searching for a rescue dog if possible. PetFinder.com is a great resource to use to quickly browse many of the adoptable dogs in your area. You can narrow down your search by breed to ensure that only Great Dane mixes show up for you. If you have some free time, you can also stop by the shelters in person to ask if they have any Great Dane mixes available.
If you’ve already searched at rescues and shelters with no luck, then it might be time to choose a breeder. It’s important to remember that a dog should be chosen based on personality and not looks, so if you have your heart set on a specific mixed breed, consider your motivation first. If you only want them because they look cute, then maybe you should look for a cute shelter dog instead. However, if you fall in love with the personality of a mixed breed puppy, then you might want to proceed to buy them from a breeder.
A responsible breeder will allow you to meet with the puppy, meet the puppy’s parents, and see the breeding location before you purchase a puppy. They should allow you to see where the dogs were bred, and they should be extremely knowledgeable about the specific mixed breed. If they are unable to answer specific questions or if they don’t allow you to see the breeding location, that is a red flag. Also, make sure you never purchase a puppy from a pet store because they likely came from a puppy mill.
Conclusion
Great Dane mixes are not for everyone due to their massive size, but they can make great companions. Each mix has its own unique personality and traits, so it’s always important to do your research before choosing a specific mixed breed. Make sure you know their food, exercise, and training requirements before bringing them home.
There are Great Danes mixes for all types of families, but they will always be larger dogs. Therefore, you should ideally have a large home with a fenced-in yard if you’re hoping to welcome a Great Dane mix into the family. If you’re prepared to buy or adopt a large breed dog, then these mixed breeds are guaranteed to bring joy and excitement into your life.
I think we have a Great Dane mixed with Dalmatian. Any info you can give me?