| The Great Dane is known in its native Germany
as the German Mastiff. This statuesque dog, often
referred to as the Apollo of the dog world, is said to
be descended from the Molossus hounds of ancient
Rome. In the Middle Ages, it was used as a wild boar
hunter, companion, and bodyguard, and the breed
also played its part in bull-baiting. In the 1800s,t he
Chancellor of Germany, Bismarck, who had a
particular interest in mastiffs, crossed the mastiff of
southern Germany and the Great Dane of the north
to produce dogs similar to the Dane we know today.
Despite its size, this breed should not be kenneled
outdoors, but kept indoors as a member of the family.
The Great Dane is good natured, playful, and easy to
train. However, it should not be teased lest an action
be misinterpreted. It needs regular exercise on hard
ground and daily grooming with a body brush. It lives
for only 8-9 years on average.
|
