Great Danes are striking dogs that win people over with their gentle nature and impressive presence. But living with one is unlike living with any other breed. Here are seven things to keep in mind before welcoming a Dane into your home.

1. Their Size Changes Everything

A Great Dane isn’t just big, it’s “furniture-level big.” Their height means countertops aren’t off-limits, and their tails can sweep a coffee table clear with a single wag. Space becomes a daily consideration, not just for them, but for you too.

2. Short Lifespan Is Part of the Deal

Few breeds remind you of time’s weight like a Dane. Their average lifespan is shorter than most dogs, often around seven to ten years. It makes the years you share more intense, filled with a kind of presence and urgency you won’t forget.

3. Training Needs Are Subtle but Serious

Because they’re naturally gentle, it’s tempting to let training slide. But manners matter more when the dog is the size of a person. Even leaning on someone can cause trouble. Solid leash work, clear boundaries, and calm consistency are essential.

4. Health Concerns Require Vigilance

Great Danes are prone to conditions like bloat, hip issues, and heart problems. Owners often learn to spot discomfort quickly. Simple routines like elevated feeding or slow-feed bowls can make a difference, but vet visits will become a regular rhythm in your life.

5. They Need Soft Places to Rest

Despite their size, they aren’t rugged. Danes carry a lot of weight on their joints, and hard floors are tough on them. Investing in oversized, supportive bedding isn’t a luxury, it’s basic care. You’ll soon notice how much they love stretching out fully, taking up more space than you thought a dog could.

6. They Thrive on Company

A Great Dane doesn’t want to be left alone for long stretches. Their calm nature comes alive when they’re near their people. They may not bark much, but their eyes will follow you constantly. For them, companionship is not optional, it’s who they are.

7. They Draw Attention Everywhere

Walk a Dane down the street and you’ll get stopped. People want to ask about them, take photos, and tell you their own stories about “the biggest dog I’ve ever seen.” Living with a Great Dane means living with a small celebrity, and you’ll need patience for the spotlight.

Bringing home a Great Dane means reshaping your life around a giant heart wrapped in an enormous body. They’ll test your space, your patience, and your furniture, but they’ll also leave a mark on your life that’s just as oversized as they are.