The Blue Great Dane may appear imposing, yet they are kind and amiable when trained appropriately. They are wonderful companions for individuals, families, and homes with multiple pets.
But what is their origin, and what qualities make this breed an excellent choice for you? Below, we provide the answers to these questions and more.
Breed Overview
| Category | Details |
| Height | 28–32 inches |
| Weight | 110–175 pounds |
| Lifespan | 7–12 years |
| Colours | Black, black & white, blue, brindle, fawn, harlequin, mantle, merle, white |
| Suitable for | Families with older children, people looking for a watchdog, active individuals |
| Category | Rating (Out of 5) |
| Energy | (4/5) |
| Trainability | (3/5) |
| Health | (3/5) |
| Sociability | (4/5) |
Blue Great Dane Characteristics
| Category | Details |
| Appearance | Blue Great Danes have a similar stature to other Great Danes but are distinguished by their steel blue coat and eyes. But the eye colour gradually changes to amber as they age. Their ears can be naturally long or cropped, both popular. |
| Temperament | Blue Great Danes are loyal, friendly, and gentle. They are obedient and easy to train. They love to snuggle with their owners and are smart, possessive, and capable of being great watchdogs. |
| Watchdogs | With a height of up to 36 inches at the shoulder, they have an imposing presence that can deter intruders. Due to their protective nature, they are intelligent, recognize family and friends, and remain alert around strangers. |
| Physical Activities | They do not require excessive exercise but need daily physical activity. A 20-40 minute walk keeps them in shape. Leash training is recommended. |
| Feeding | Puppies should be fed specially formulated Dane puppy food 2-3 times daily. Adult Blue Great Danes should have dry dog food specifically designed for them. Walking before or after feeding should be avoided to prevent bloat. |
| Grooming | Their short, smooth coat makes grooming easy. Occasional brushing and monthly bathing are sufficient to maintain their appearance. Getting a Blue Great Dane from a certified breeder is advised for a healthy and happy pet. |
History
The Great Dane has been around for about 400 years, descended from mastiff-like dogs. Despite the name, Great Danes originated in Germany and were bred to be boar hunters. German breeders concentrated then on making the breed less aggressive, and it’s thought they wouldn’t be very good at hunting boar now because they’re so gentle.
In the 1700s, the dog was named “Grand Danois,” but in the 1800s, the Germans banned the name and called the breed “Deutsche Dogge,” which means German Mastiff. However, “Great Dane” is still used in English-speaking countries.
Great Danes were first introduced to the United States in the late 1800s and slowly became more famous, but we don’t have an exact date for their arrival.
Popularity of Blue Great Danes
German nobility once used Great Danes to protect country estates and hunt wild boar. In the 18th century, they were prestigious guardians of carriages and estates, and their ferocious nature was bred out of them.
Great Danes have become gentle giants who get along with families and other animals. In 2024, the American Kennel Club (AKC) ranked this breed 19th most popular in the United States.
While Blue Great Danes aren’t rare, they can be challenging to breed. To create a blue puppy, both parents must carry the recessive blue gene that turns the black coat blue. Breeding two blue Great Danes doesn’t necessarily guarantee a litter of blue puppies.
Formal Recognition of Blue Great Danes
The AKC officially recognized the Great Dane in 1887 and recognizes 10 color variations, including blue. The United Kennel Club (UKC), the Dog Registry of America (DRA), and the North American Purebred Registry (NAPR) all recognize the Blue Great Dane, too. Any “faults” with the colour that would disqualify a Great Dane include white markings on the chest and toes.
Facts about Blue Great Danes
1. They Have Big Hearts and Short Lives
People consider the Great Dane a gentle breed. Big dogs notoriously don’t live long lives, which is true for the Great Dane. They live 7–10 years, and they will leave a massive hole in your life when they’re gone, but you’re guaranteed a lot of love in those short few years together.
2. They’re Film Stars
Great Danes have been used to portray the killer hellhound in the adaptation of “The Hound of the Baskervilles“, a renowned series by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, despite the author never specifying the breed.
It just shows how scary they can look. While the Great Danes are gentle, they’re loyal and won’t hesitate to protect their families.
3. Great Danes Are Tall and Heavy
Females can grow to 30 inches at the shoulder and weigh 140 pounds, while males can reach 32 inches at the shoulder and weigh 175 pounds. If they stand on their hind legs, they tower over most humans.
Does a Blue Great Dane Make a Good Pet?
Great Danes need room to exercise and move around, and you need a house big enough to accommodate them.
They’re not inexpensive to own because of how much they need to eat, so that is also something you will have to factor in if you’re thinking of getting a Great Dane. Everything costs more if you’re getting it in a bigger size, including dog beds and crates.
Plus, Great Danes are hard on their belongings and can chew through toys faster than you can replace them; you might go through a few doggy beds, especially when they’re young and a little unruly.
Since they are large, you need to dedicate time to obedience training to keep them manageable when fully grown. You cannot physically restrain this dog if they’re trying to escape you.
They’re a wonderfully loving and tolerant breed and make great family pets if you socialize them early on. They get along with other animals, but you must supervise them around children.
Of course, you shouldn’t leave your small children around dogs unattended anyway, but these dogs are so big that they might send a small child flying with a happy leap or a wagging tail. Your Blue Great Dane will also shed a lot; you must brush your coat regularly.
What Are Common Health Issues For Blue Great Danes?
Blue Great Danes, as with all Great Danes, can be vulnerable to several health issues, like:
- Hip Dysplasia is a condition that affects hip joint deformity, resulting in arthritis and ongoing pain. Symptoms are rising difficulty and hind leg lameness. Regular veterinary examinations and weight control are necessary.
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy is a severe heart condition that enlarges the heart muscle, resulting in less efficient blood pumping. Therefore, you must frequently check for symptoms. Some common symptoms are lethargy, coughing, and fainting. Early treatment and medication help restrain the worst outcomes.
- Tricuspid Valve Disease occurs when the heart valve fails to close well, leading to blood leakage. This can be a very life-threatening condition, and the symptoms are fatigue and fluid buildup. Medication is the most common form of treatment.
- Gastric Torsion (Bloat) is a fatal condition in which the stomach splits, blocking the blood supply. Signs such as a swollen belly and retching need urgent vet care.
Moreover, blue Great Danes can suffer from a condition that leads to hair loss and skin, known as colour dilution alopecia.
They may also feel irritation and be at higher risk of hypertrophic osteodystrophy (HOD), a painful bone condition in young dogs. Frequent visits to the veterinarian, a well-balanced diet, and adequate exercise are important for controlling these health risks.
Mutation
Blue Great Danes’ blue coats result from a mutation in the dilution gene, which can lead to health issues like colour dilution alopecia.
While they can be healthy companions, they have some specific health problems. Working with a reliable breeder who tests for genetic health issues and provides health clearances to prospective owners is important.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Blue Great Danes Rare?
Indeed, blue Great Danes are classified as uncommon. They appear less frequently than black, fawn, or brindle Great Danes.
The blue coat colour results from a recessive gene, making breeding for it difficult. However, it’s essential to understand that while blue Great Danes are infrequent, various other breeds can also have this color.
How Much Does a Blue Great Dane Cost?
The price of a blue Great Dane can fluctuate depending on the breeder, location, and several other factors. Typically, prices fall between $1,500 and $5,000 or even higher.
It’s vital to conduct thorough research to locate a reputable breeder who conducts health tests on their dogs and cares for their puppies appropriately.
What Is the Rarest Color of Great Dane?
The most uncommon colour for Great Danes is merle, which can appear in various tints, including blue and fawn.
However, focusing on specific colours or patterns during breeding may result in health issues, so good breeders always work with health cautions for their dogs above visual appeal.
What Is the Lifespan of a Blue Great Dane?
The typical lifespan of a blue Great Dane aligns with that of other Great Danes, generally ranging from 7 to 10 years. With adequate care and attention to their health, some Great Danes may enjoy longer lives.
Can Blue Great Danes Have Health Problems?
Like their counterparts, blue Great Danes can be vulnerable to particular health concerns, including hip dysplasia, bloat, heart conditions, and thyroid issues.
Collaborating with a veterinarian and monitoring their health throughout their lives is important to ensure they receive the necessary care and treatment.
Conclusion
The Blue Great Dane is a friendly breed that forms a powerful connection with people. This makes them excellent pets! Historically, they assisted hunters and have since evolved into exceptional family companions.
While they may not be aggressive today, they remain reliable protectors of their households. Although they can be expensive to maintain and require plenty of space, they are worth the investment.
