The Great Dane Lifespan: A Guide for Pet Parents

The Great Dane, often referred to as the “gentle giant,” is one of the largest dog breeds known for their towering stature, affectionate nature, and regal appearance. Like many giant breeds, the Great Dane lifespan is shorter than smaller dog breeds. Understanding the Dane’s life expectancy will help you maximize your pup’s health so you can make the most of your time with your giant fur baby.

How Long Do Great Danes Live?

Typically, Great Danes live between 7 and 10 years, though some may live even longer with proper care. While it’s heartbreaking that these gentle giants don’t stay with us for very long, there are proactive measures we can take to improve their quality of life and potentially expand the Great Dane lifespan. We’ll get to those in a little bit, but first, let’s take a look at…

The Most Common Health Issues in Great Danes

Like most dog breeds, the Great Dane is predisposed to certain health issues that can affect their lifespan. Being aware of these issues can help you keep your pup as healthy as possible.

Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)

One of the most serious health concerns for Great Danes is bloat, also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). This condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow and causing a life-threatening situation. Bloat requires immediate veterinary attention and often emergency surgery. To reduce the risk, it’s recommended to feed Great Danes smaller meals multiple times a day rather than one large meal and avoid vigorous exercise immediately before or after eating.

Hip Dysplasia

Like many large breeds, Great Danes are prone to hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint hasn’t formed properly, leading to pain, arthritis, and eventual mobility issues. While it’s often a genetic condition, maintaining a healthy weight and providing joint supplements may help alleviate discomfort. Early detection is also key, so regular vet check-ups and monitoring your dog’s movement for signs of limping or difficulty getting up are important.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)

Great Danes are also at risk for a disease called dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). This is where the heart becomes enlarged and struggles to pump blood efficiently. If not caught in time and treated, the condition can lead to heart failure and death. Regular veterinary exams, including heart screenings, are crucial for early detection. Symptoms of DCM include coughing, lethargy, and difficulty breathing.

Wobbler Syndrome

Wobbler syndrome is a neurological condition that affects the neck and spine, causing dogs to lose coordination and struggle with walking. It’s more common in larger breeds like Great Danes and can lead to severe mobility problems if untreated. While the cause isn’t always clear, early intervention with medication, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgery, can help manage symptoms.

How to Help Your Great Dane Live a Long, Healthy Life

While Great Danes may have a shorter average lifespan, there are things you can do to improve their overall health and extend their time with you. Here are some tips to help your gentle giant thrive:

Provide a Balanced, High-Quality Diet

When it comes to maximizing health and longevity, feeding your Dane a high-quality, balanced diet should be a priority. Look for foods specially formulated to support your pup’s  joints, heart, and immune system. Since Great Danes are prone to rapid growth as puppies, it’s important to feed them large-breed-specific puppy food to prevent overgrowth, which can lead to joint issues. As they grow older, transition them to adult food that’s designed for large breeds to ensure they get the nutrients they need to support their bones and muscles. And if you’re ever unsure what are the best commercial food options, speak to your vet for guidance.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity can exacerbate many of the health problems common in Great Danes, including hip dysplasia and heart disease. Maintaining a healthy weight can help extend the Great Dane lifespan. Regular exercise and portion control will help keep your Great Dane at a healthy weight, reducing the strain on their joints and heart. Consult with your vet to determine the appropriate amount of food for your dog’s age and activity level.

Routine Veterinary Care

As we’ve mentioned, early detection for many of the common Great Dane health issues is key in extending your pup’s life. That’s why regular vet check-ups are so incredibly important. Your vet can detect and manage health issues before they become life-threatening. Because Great Danes are prone to specific health issues, your vet may recommend additional screenings for bloat, heart disease, or joint problems.

Monitor for Signs of Bloat

Given the risk of bloat, it’s important to monitor your Great Dane for any signs of distress after eating. Symptoms include a swollen abdomen, excessive drooling, restlessness, and attempts to vomit without success. If you notice any of these signs, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Preventative surgery called gastropexy, where the stomach is tacked to the abdominal wall, can reduce the risk of bloat and is often recommended for Great Danes.

The Importance of Pet Insurance for Great Danes

With their predisposition to certain health conditions, investing in pet insurance is highly recommended for Great Danes. Due to their size and unique health concerns, treatments for conditions like bloat, hip dysplasia, or heart disease can become costly, especially if surgery is required. 

Pet insurance can help cover the cost of unexpected medical bills, allowing you to provide the best care for your Great Dane without the financial stress. By enrolling your Great Dane in a pet insurance plan early, you can ensure that you’re prepared for any health issues that may arise, giving you peace of mind and helping your dog live their happiest, healthiest life.

Here are the top pet insurance providers – in order – based on over 150,000 authentic reviews from pet parents just like you:

References:

1. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/great-dane-life-span/
2. https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/great-dane
3. https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/what-to-know-great-danes

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.