Yes, Great Danes do shed more than people expect. Great Danes have a single layer coat but still their short hairs stick to clothes, furniture and carpets. Great Dane is such a large dog their moderate shedding can feel like a lot simply due to the surface area of their body.
Comparison To Other Breeds
| Breed | Coat Type | Shedding Level | Coat Length |
| Great Dane | Single | Moderate | Short |
| German Shepherd | Double | Heavy (seasonal) | Medium |
| Labrador Retriever | Double | Heavy (year round) | Short to medium. |
| Poodle | Single | Low | Curly/Medium. |
| Boxer | Single | Low to moderate. | Short |
How Much Do Great Danes Shed?
Most owners notice an increase in shedding during spring and fall. Because these are the periods when dogs naturally adjust their coat density to prepare for warmer and cooler weather.
Great Danes also shed daily in which old, damaged and dead hairs fall out and are replaced with new ones. And if your great dane is a senior dog, it can shed more due to slower cell regeneration and drier skin.
Causes Of Excessive Shedding In Great Danes
1. Nutritional Deficiencies
Diet plays a direct role in their skin and coat health. Great danes which are fed low quality kibble or diets lacking in essential nutrients suffer from dry hair that sheds more easily.
So to avoid their dry hair and excessive shredding you have to give them vitamins A, E and B-complex with adequate protein and zinc. And one of the most important nutrients for coat health is omega 3 fatty acids and biotin.
2. Allergies
Great Danes are prone to allergies which can lead to inflamed skin and also excessive shedding. These allergies may be:
- Environmental: Dust, pollen, mold and grass.
- Food related: Grains, chicken, beef or additives in commercial kibble.
- Contact based: Reactions to certain shampoos, detergents and fabrics.
3. Stress, Hormonal Imbalance, Medical Conditions
Dogs shed more when they feel stressed like people lose more hair when anxious. Stressors in a Great Dane’s life might include:
- Changes in the household (new pet, baby, moving)
- Loud noises (fireworks, thunderstorms)
- Boredom or separation anxiety
4. Parasites: Fleas, Ticks And Mites
External parasites are also a major cause of fur loss in dogs. If your Great Dane is constantly scratching, chewing or has irritated skin. You should check for:
- Fleas: Tiny fast moving insects that can cause flea allergy dermatitis (FAD).
- Ticks: Can lead to hair loss and infections.
- Mites (mange): Can cause severe hair loss, redness and scabbing.
How To Reduce Shedding In Great Danes
1. Proper Grooming Schedule
You should brush your great danes coat 2 to 3 times per week with a bristle brush. And bathe your Great Dane with a moisture rich shampoo once a month.
2. Best Brushes For Great Dane Coat Type
The best brushes are those that clean and massage without irritating great danes sensitive skin. Such as:
- KONG ZoomGroom
- Hertzko Soft Bristle Brush
- SleekEZ Deshedding Tool
Dealing With Shedding In Your Home
To keep your home fur free, you should use a high suction vacuum for trapping hair and allergens. Place air purifiers with HEPA filters in rooms where your dog spends the most time such as the living room or bedroom. Also wash your pet bedding weekly. Models designed for pet owners:
- Dyson Ball Animal 2
- Shark Navigator Lift Away
- Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog
