A True Child Friendly Dog

No sight is more amazing to watch than an adult Great Dane gating around the yard, using just enough speed to stay out of reach of...

A trailing pack of children who are desperately trying to catch the beast!

Barely standing taller than this giant's withers, these kids are engaging in a game of confidence. As a "pack" approaching hind side, they set the pace of the chase.

Great Danes are known for forming strong bonds with human children, they make excellent companions and life long friends, a child friendly dog your kids will remember forever. In a somewhat opposite of extremes, many Great Danes develop a special fondness for their miniature human counterparts. This is truly special to see, you will find some photos of this "unique connection" available at our photo gallery.

For the most part, interaction between Great Danes and children is usually uneventful, with exception of an occasional accidental knock down, or unfortunate unintended slap by a 24-inch happy tail.

Although Danes are generally confident and well mannered, small children should always be supervised while in their presence. Young children should also be taught to respect your Great Dane, not to play rough, try to ride him like a horse, or tease their tolerant friend.

As parents, it is your responsibility to assure your children understand that this is still a dog. Even with a child friendly dog like a Dane, or other child friendly breed, common sense lessons are important. Respecting a dog while it is chewing a favorite bone, eating, sleeping, or just not interested are some of the many aspects of safe interaction between dogs and children.

A young child growing up with a Great Dane may develop a false sense of security around other strange dogs. Since a Great Dane is so large, your child may view a smaller dog as nonthreatening. Always teach your children to speak to a human owner first before approaching their dog.

Great Danes, as well mannered and reserve as they are, are still dogs. While we promote the breed positively, situations like rough play, teasing, harassment or pestering can cause a dog to react in unexpected ways. Remember that a sudden aggressive snap, or nip by a dog of a Dane's size can easily inflict injuries to a human, especially a small child.

Great Danes as puppies can be a bit unpredictable, sudden outbursts of energy, known as the zoomies by the Dane community, are common. This is why your supervision is neccessary while Great Danes and children interact. As your dog matures, about 2 to 3-years of age, a steadfast calm demeanor will develop and unexpected energy bursts become far and few in between.

As always, early socialization, guidance and obedience are a must, this will assure a evenly temperamental dog that will befriend many, many children.

Start from the top of Great Danes, a truly child friendly dog.