Great Dane colors, coat colors & markings

This is not your typical page with the AKC color standard only! Be sure to scan the entire page for links to more interesting colors:)

Kindly, we do not show Great Danes and further believe that every Great Dane is unique, truly a special creature regardless of color:)

Of the wide variety of Great Dane colors, only six are accepted by the American Kennel Club as show colors.

Six AKC recognized show colors are...

• Black Great Danes
• Blue Great Danes
• Brindle Great Danes
• Fawn Great Danes
• Harlequin Great Danes
• Mantle Great Danes

A good rule of thumb is to choose a Dane puppy with coat color as close as possible to these six.

Of course you may not find a puppy with perfect coat colors, there may be mismarks, or blemishes. Typically, Danes with markings and colors that conform to the AKC standard are sold as show quality and the mismarked, as "pet quality".

Nothing is wrong with a mismarked Dane and more than likely, you will save a few dollars. Whether choosing a "show", or "pet" quality Dane, try to stay as close to the six show colors as possible. This will increase your odds for a healthy Great Dane.

This is also a great indicator that your breeder has acted ethically in the best interest of Great Danes and betterment of the breed.

Rest assured that you can still register different colored Danes, such as merle, with the AKC as purebred, so if you don't plan on showing, go with your heart.

More to Great Dane colors than meets the eye?

There are some health concerns with certain Danes due to recessive genes, coat colors, are also determined by these genes. For instance, genetically white Great Danes are typically vision and hearing impaired.

The color of your Dane can be an early warning sign of predisposition to certain ailments.

We have written articles discussing color, markings, and related information on each particular color at its respective page. Photos are also available for visual reference.

Links to the six AKC accepted show colors and other common, yet unique colors such as merle Great Danes are offered throughout this article, as well as some unusual mixed color combinations.

We stress the word common as many new Dane owners have over paid unscrupulous breeders for so called rare Danes, such as blue merle Great Danes and fawnequin Great Danes. Fact is, these rare colored Danes are common mismarks in harlequin litters.

Take a look at whatever colors interest you, if you have a question or are still unsure, send us a note.

Hope you find your coat colors "in stock":)