Great Dane: Size, Lifespan, Health and Care
Quick answer
PDSA, the UK veterinary charity, puts the Great Dane at about 71-76 cm tall and 46-54 kg, living under 10 years. It suggests at least 2 hours a day, and lists 8 health problems to watch, including gastric dilatation volvulus and hip dysplasia. Minimum running cost: at least £105 a month after buying and setting up, and over £17,000 over a lifetime.
From PDSA, the UK veterinary charity. Not veterinary advice. Worried about your own pet? See who to call.
On this page (7 sections)
Key facts
| Size | Large (giant) |
|---|---|
| Average height | 71-76 cm |
| Average weight | 46-54 kg |
| Average lifespan | Under 10 years |
| Exercise | At least 2 hours a day, spread across the day (puppies should not be over-exercised) |
| Grooming | A weekly brush, more in spring and autumn; short coat; drools |
| Cost | At least £105 a month after buying and setting up, and over £17,000 over a lifetime |
Source: PDSA, Great Dane breed information.
Health problems to watch
PDSA lists these for the breed. A higher risk does not mean every animal will be affected; where a screening scheme or test exists, ask the breeder for the parents' results.
- gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV, a stomach twist and an emergency)
- hip dysplasia
- elbow dysplasia
- dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)
- eye problems such as entropion, ectropion, glaucoma and cherry eye
- Wobbler syndrome
- certain cancers
- inherited myopathy of Great Danes
Source: PDSA, Great Dane breed information.
Exercise and grooming
PDSA suggests at least 2 hours a day, spread across the day (puppies should not be over-exercised). Grooming: a weekly brush, more in spring and autumn; short coat; drools. Source: PDSA, Great Dane breed information.
Temperament
PDSA describes the breed as gentle, affectionate, intelligent and playful; loyal and sensitive, can be strong-willed in training with a fairly strong prey drive. PDSA says they are not recommended for families with younger children because of their size and strength, and should not be left alone for more than four hours. Source: PDSA, Great Dane breed information.
Cost
PDSA's figure: at least £105 a month after buying and setting up, and over £17,000 over a lifetime. These are minimums that leave out buying the animal and vet bills for illness or injury. More: annual cost of owning a dog and puppy first-year costs. Source: PDSA, Great Dane breed information.
Questions people ask
How long do Great Danes live?
PDSA gives an average lifespan of under 10 years.
How much exercise does a Great Dane need?
PDSA suggests at least 2 hours a day, spread across the day (puppies should not be over-exercised).
What health problems do Great Danes have?
PDSA lists gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV, a stomach twist and an emergency); hip dysplasia; elbow dysplasia; dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM); eye problems such as entropion, ectropion, glaucoma and cherry eye; Wobbler syndrome; certain cancers; inherited myopathy of Great Danes.
How much does a Great Dane cost?
PDSA's estimate: at least £105 a month after buying and setting up, and over £17,000 over a lifetime.
Sources
- PDSA, Great Dane breed information, read 7 November 2026.
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