If you have a Great Dane, it is important that you learn about the health facts and information that is relevant to this specific breed of dog. Great Danes are known for being strong and elegant, and are friendly, energetic, and personable with humans. The American Kennel Club says that these pets are social, and love their owners. The Great Dane Club of America says that a typical Great Dane is spirited and courageous. These dogs are also dependable and are almost always dependable. Because of their size, the dogs are rarely intimidated and therefore are not prone be aggressive with other animals or with humans., The dogs are owner-oriented, and are typically very affectionate. Great Danes are also described as affectionate.

The pets require minimal grooming despite their enormous size because they have short hair. The breed standard is a short, thick coat that has a smooth and glossy appearance. While Great Danes can be trimmed to maintain a level coat, there is never much need for excessive grooming with this short-haired pets. The animals do have a few common health issues so it is important to be aware of what these are and watch out for them if you are caring for a Great Dane.

These dogs are particularly susceptible to bloating, and can sometimes obtain osteosarcoma. Osteosarcoma is an aggressive malignant neoplasm that can develop into bone cancer in dogs. It is present in about 20% of all bone cancer and accounts for about 5% of all canine tumors. Osteosarcoma can develop in any bone in the dog's body, but most often occurs in bones bordering the shoulder, wrist, or knee. The osteosarcoma can become excruciating as the tumor grows outward and the bone is destroyed from the inside out.

As well, Great Danes are particularly susceptible to Wobbler's Disease. This is a condition of the cervical vertebrae that causes an unsteady gait and weakness in dogs and horses. Sometimes in Great Danes the illness can result from a narrowing in the vertebrae canal. Wobbler's Disease is progressive, meaning that it will often get worse. It may start with weakness, ataxia, and dragging of the toes in the rear legs. Dogs with the illness often have a crouching stance with a downward flexed neck. X-rays typically show a misaligned spine or neck. Sometimes, treatments of electroacupunture or spinal cord decompression can help to cure this illness.

Great Danes can also suffer from canine cardiac issues, and tend to develop HOD (hypertrophic osteodystrophy) which is an illness that causes a pet's joints to swell and makes it difficult for the pets to be mobile. These dogs also suffer from cherry eye, which is a congenital disorder that occurs most of the time in young dogs. Cherry eye will cause a visible fleshy mass in the eye and will result in abnormal tear production and a discharge or drainage from the eye.

Sometimes cherry eye can be resolved with antibiotics or steroids, but there are other times that a veterinarian will need to perform surgery on a pet with this illness. Take your dog to a veterinarian immediately if you want assistance in treating this eye condition. Great Danes can also suffer from cataracts in the eye, hip dysplasia, and hypothyroidism on a regular basis. Because of these dogs large size, it is important that they are fed the right amount of healthy pet food and are exercised regularly. If your pet is displaying signs of discomfort or injury, then you should take him or her to a local vet immediately to seek information and possible treatment.