Great Dane puppies are not just “big versions” of small-breed pups. They need food designed for large/giant breed puppies so their bones, joints, and growth plates develop slowly and safely.

• Use a giant-breed puppy formula: Look for a reputable food labeled for large/giant breed puppies with controlled calories and minerals.
• Calcium & phosphorus balance: Too much calcium can contribute to joint problems and skeletal issues. Avoid “extras” unless your vet directs you.
• Meal schedule:
  • 8–12 weeks: 3–4 small meals/day
  • 3–6 months: 3 meals/day
  • 6+ months: transition to 2 meals/day
• No “puppy boosting” with high-fat foods: Fast growth looks impressive on social media, but it is hard on joints and increases the risk of orthopedic issues.
• Treats: Keep treats to <10% of daily calories and choose simple, limited-ingredient options.

Want a deeper dive into food choices and brands I actually use? Visit the Great Dane nutrition guide →

Dane puppies are all legs and enthusiasm. Their growth plates stay open longer than smaller breeds, which means you have to protect them from too much impact while they’re young.

• Short, controlled exercise: Frequent potty walks, gentle play, and short leash walks instead of marathon outings.
• Avoid: Repetitive jumping, running on hard surfaces, long runs, or letting puppies race up and down stairs.
• Surface matters: Grass, dirt, and rubber-type flooring are easier on developing joints than slick tile or concrete.
• Watch for signs of overdoing it: Limping, slowing down, or “bunny hopping” in the rear end all deserve a rest and, if persistent, a vet check.

Protecting joints early can lower the risk or severity of problems like hip and elbow dysplasia.

For a full breakdown of safe activity by age, see the Great Dane exercise guide →

A 150+ pound dog with no manners is nobody’s idea of fun. Start training while your Dane is still small enough to move.

• Start early: Name recognition, recall, sit, down, and polite leash walking can all begin in puppyhood.
• Positive reinforcement: Reward with treats, praise, and play. Avoid harsh corrections; Danes are sensitive.
• Soft mouth & bite inhibition: Redirect nipping onto chew toys and end play when teeth touch skin.
• Socialization: Calm, positive exposure to people, kids, polite dogs, car rides, different environments, and vet/grooming handling.
• Crate & alone time practice: Teach them that being alone for short periods is normal, not scary.

For redirection strategies and calm behavior tips, check out Redirection Techniques and the dog anxiety guide .

Regular vet care sets your puppy up for a healthy adult life, and early habits can lower the risk of big-dog problems later on.

• Vaccinations: Follow your vet’s recommended puppy schedule until immunity is complete.
• Deworming & preventatives: Keep up with dewormers and flea/tick/heartworm meds as directed.
• Weight management: Keep puppies lean. Extra weight puts unnecessary stress on growing joints.
• Bloat (GDV) awareness: Great Danes are high-risk for gastric dilatation-volvulus. Learn the early signs and have an emergency plan.
• Joint health: Talk with your vet about screening for hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, especially if there is a family history.

To understand bloat symptoms and emergency steps, read:

• Bloat (GDV) in Dogs – Emergency Guide
• Dog Bloat Prevention Habits

For joint focus, you can create or link a page such as: Great Dane Hip Dysplasia & Joint Health .

Danes are fairly low-maintenance in the grooming department, but starting early makes life easier when they’re huge.

• Coat: Weekly brushing keeps shedding down and skin healthy.
• Bathing: As needed, using a gentle dog shampoo. Practice getting into the tub young.
• Nail trims: Every 2–3 weeks. Short nails protect joints and prevent slipping on floors.
• Ears: Check weekly for redness or odor; clean with a vet-approved solution.
• Teeth: Start brushing young or use other dental products recommended by your vet.

Your puppy’s environment should protect their joints, keep them safe, and give them a place to relax away from chaos.

• Soft surfaces: Provide padded beds and rugs, especially on hard floors, to support joints.
• Crate training: Use a crate that will fit them as adults, with dividers while they’re small. Make the crate calm — not punishment.
• Limit slick floors: Add runners or rugs where they spend most of their time to prevent slipping.
• Safe chewing area: Keep approved toys in main hang-out spots so it’s easy to make good choices.

Great Danes are “people dogs.” They don’t just need a yard — they need you. Mental enrichment keeps their brains busy and channels all that energy into good habits.

• Chew toys & puzzles: Rotate durable chews, slow feeders, and puzzle toys to prevent boredom.
• Short training sessions: 3–5 minutes sprinkled through the day build skills without overwhelming them.
• Sniff time: Sniff walks, treat scatters in the yard, or simple nosework games are fantastic for Danes.
• Calm cuddle time: Teach them how to relax with you, not just bounce off the walls.