The Great Dane, who borrows its name from the French words meaning "Big Danish," has no association with Denmark. The breed developed in Germany about four hundred years ago as a mix of Irish Wolfhound and English Mastiff. Their evolution as boar-hunting hounds endowed them with enough size, strength and speed to bring down large, challenging opponents.

Sometimes called the "Apollo of Dogs," Danes serve as competent guard dogs and loving pets. They possess noble and calm spirits, but owners should be prepared for their generous bulk.

IDEAL BREED CHARACTERISTICS

Size: Males 32 inches or more, Females 30 inches or more, in proportional balance (at the withers).

Appearance: POverful, muscular body with strong, level motion.

Coat and Color: Short, thick, shiny coat. Brindle, yellow gold (with a black mask, ears and tail tip), steel blue, shiny black or harlequin (white with medium-sized black patches) color.

Head: Flat skull with a long, square muzzle; dark, almond-shaped eyes; high, folded, medium-sized ears.

Tail: Long, tapered, straight.