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Great Shepherd (Great Dane x German Shepherd)

These large dogs owe their lineage to two unique breeds, one known for its gentle and protective nature, and the other famed for its excellent working skills and alert disposition. With the German Shepherd as one of its parents, this breed shows a reserved attitude while interacting with strangers, emerging as an adept guard and watchdog. They could inherit their parent’s separation anxiety, resorting to destructive behaviour, when left alone for a long span.

Dog Profile

Other Names	Dane Shepherd, Shepherd Dane mix
Breed Registry Details	IDCR
Nicknames	–
Common Physical Features	Muscular built; long body; erect or upright ears; bright, almond-shaped eyes; long legs
Coat Type	Short, smooth and glossy (as the Great Dane); Hard, double coat (as the German Shepherd)
Colours	Black, merle, brown, white, hazel, brindle, fawn, blue
Life Expectancy	8-13 years
Size	Big
Height	Male and Female: 71-76 cm
Weight	Male: 30-45 kg; Female: 30-50 kg
Litter Size	4-6 puppies
Personality	Protective, patient, laidback, curious, playful
Kids-Friendly	Yes
Animal-Friendly	Yes (will improve more with proper socialization)
Climate Compatibility	Moderate (could exhibit heat intolerance like the German Shepherd)
Care Level	High
Exercise Requirements	High: Walking (60 minutes a day); Jogging (10-15 minutes)
Grooming Needs	High to Moderate
Coat Brushing	Regular (Once a day)
Bathing	Occasional (Once a month); Frequent (Three to four times a day during shedding season)
Eyes and Ears Cleaning	Frequent (Once a week)
Brushing of Teeth	Regular or Frequent (Once a day or three to four times a week)
Nail Clipping	Frequent (Once in every two weeks)
Feeding
Adults	4.5-6 cups dry dog food per day
Puppies	½-1 ½ cup puppy food at two months, with the amount increasing till it is two years old
Hypoallergenic	No
Barking Capacity	Minimal (if it takes more to the Greta Dane’s side); Excessive (like the German Shepherd known for their noisy nature)
Trainability	High to Moderate
Common Health Problems	Hip dysplasia, allergies, heart and eye problems
Origin	USA