The Great Dane is known for its impressive size and gentle, affectionate nature. Though a purebred, this gentle giant is often crossed with other breeds, resulting in unique hybrids with a variety of coat colors, patterns, and temperaments. Great Dane mixes combine the Dane’s loveable qualities with the traits of other breeds, creating a range of wonderful companions that can fit different lifestyles.
Read on to explore 35 popular Great Dane mixes and discover which hybrid could be the perfect fit for your home.
What Makes a Great Dane Special?
Originating in Germany, Great Danes are famous for their size, loyalty, and friendly demeanor. Known as “gentle giants,” these dogs are well-suited for families and can be surprisingly adaptable, despite their large size. Unfortunately, Great Danes have shorter lifespans and can be prone to health issues like hip dysplasia and bloat. However, crossbreeding can introduce new traits, sometimes improving longevity or creating a more adaptable companion.
35 Popular Great Dane Mixes
1. Chihuahua Great Dane Mix (Chi-Dane-Dane)
The Great Dane Chihuahua Mix is often referred to as the “Great Mexican Dog.” Though rare, it combines the Chihuahua’s bold personality with the Great Dane’s loyal nature. Known for being friendly and affectionate, the Chi-Dane-Dane has Small Dog Syndrome despite its larger size.
2. Pit Bull Great Dane Mix (Great Danebull)
Gentle and loyal, the Great Danebull is excellent with children and thrives in an active household. They have a sturdy build, short coat, and tend to be affectionate family companions with moderate exercise needs.
3. Labrador Retriever Great Dane Mix (Labradane)
The Labradane is a social and loyal hybrid, known for being gentle with children and affectionate with family members. With the energy of a Labrador and the size of a Great Dane, this mix loves outdoor activities and requires ample space.
4. Poodle Great Dane Mix (Great Danoodle)
Also known as the Great Danepoo, this cross with a Poodle brings intelligence, calmness, and a wavy or curly coat. Great for families, they are social and gentle, requiring regular grooming due to their Poodle-like coat.
5. Husky Great Dane Mix (Great Danesky)
The Great Danesky is a playful, friendly, and independent mix. Known for their high energy and affection, these dogs love adventure and make great companions for active families. High-energy breeds like these can benefit from the Best Dog Foods for Active Dogs.
6. German Shepherd Great Dane Mix (Great Shepherd)
With the loyalty of a Shepherd and the gentle nature of a Dane, the Great Shepherd is easy to train, protective, and well-suited as a family guard dog. This hybrid thrives with ample exercise and enjoys learning new tasks.
7. Boxer Great Dane Mix (Boxane)
Boxanes are high-energy, curious dogs that enjoy plenty of activity. They may be a bit stubborn, so consistent training is essential. They get along well with other pets but may be initially cautious around strangers.
8. Golden Retriever Great Dane Mix (Great Golden Dane)
Friendly, social, and gentle, the Great Golden Dane is wonderful with children and protective of its family. They tend to be easy to train and love outdoor activities, requiring regular grooming depending on coat type.
9. Rottweiler Great Dane Mix (Weiler Dane)
This gentle and protective mix is good with kids and can be a bit stubborn. With a low energy level, the Weiler Dane enjoys moderate exercise and makes a loyal, calm family dog.
10. Great Pyrenees Great Dane Mix (Great Pyredane)
Calm, easygoing, and tolerant of children, the Great Pyredane is independent yet affectionate. This giant breed needs ample space and moderate exercise to stay content.
Other Noteworthy Great Dane Mixes
11. American Bulldog Great Dane Mix (American Bull Dane)
Affectionate and independent, this low-energy hybrid is content lounging at home but still benefits from socialization.
12. Border Collie Great Dane Mix (Great Border Collie)
Intelligent and loyal, they thrive in active households and require both mental and physical stimulation.
13. Saint Bernard Great Dane Mix (Bernadane)
Protective, gentle, and social, this giant breed is excellent with kids and other pets, making a fantastic family dog.
14. Irish Wolfhound Great Dane Mix (Irish Dane)
The Irish Dane is social, friendly, and prone to separation anxiety when left alone. They enjoy other pets and plenty of companionship.
15. English Mastiff Great Dane Mix (Daniff)
With high energy and protective instincts, the Daniff is ideal for experienced owners and makes an excellent guard dog.
16. Doberman Pinscher Great Dane Mix (Doberdane)
Friendly, playful, and loyal, the Doberdane is an impressive watchdog and protective of children.
17. Basenji Great Dane Mix (Great Dasenji)
Curious, intelligent, and sometimes stubborn, this medium-energy dog benefits from interactive play and attention.
18. American Foxhound Great Dane Mix (American Foxy Dane)
Docile and affectionate, the American Foxy Dane is good with children and pets but may be shy around strangers.
19. Weimaraner Great Dane Mix (Great Weimar)
A loyal companion with high energy, the Great Weimar needs ample playtime and enjoys a mix of mental and physical activities.
20. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Great Dane Mix (Greater Swiss Mountain Dane)
Affectionate and gentle, this breed is protective and benefits from early training and socialization.
More Unique Great Dane Crosses
21. Anatolian Shepherd Great Dane Mix (Plush Danois)
A protective and sometimes territorial hybrid, socialization is key for this large, high-energy dog.
22. Catahoula Leopard Dog Great Dane Mix (Great Catahoula)
Friendly and affectionate, the Great Catahoula makes a loyal watchdog with moderate grooming needs.
23. Beagle Great Dane Mix (Great Dangle)
Playful and social, the Great Dangle has high energy levels and benefits from a yard or open space.
24. Bull Mastiff Great Dane Mix (Bull Daniff)
Loyal and intelligent, this mix is confident and makes a wonderful watchdog with proper training.
25. Australian Shepherd Great Dane Mix
An active, loyal, and social dog that requires plenty of mental and physical activities to stay happy.
26. Dalmatian Great Dane Mix
This unique breed is friendly, energetic, and often takes on the distinctive Dalmatian spots.
27. French Bulldog Great Dane Mix
A smaller, affectionate mix with moderate energy levels, ideal for families and first-time dog owners.
28. Newfoundland Great Dane Mix
Affectionate and prone to separation anxiety, this giant dog has a long coat and requires regular grooming.
29. Shar Pei Great Dane Mix
Stubborn and protective, this breed benefits from experienced owners and makes a reliable watchdog.
30. Chow Chow Great Dane Mix
Loyal and intelligent, this hybrid has medium-length fur and requires daily exercise to stay healthy.
31. Cocker Spaniel Great Dane Mix
A lovable and gentle dog with minimal shedding, perfect for families with children.
32. Rhodesian Ridgeback Great Dane Mix
Large, intelligent, and active, this dog is quick to learn and enjoys outdoor activities.
33. Bernese Mountain Dog Great Dane Mix (Berner Dane)
Friendly and calm, this giant breed is excellent with families and has varying coat types.
34. Dachshund Great Dane Mix
A unique hybrid with an elongated body and large paws, quick to learn and eager to please.
35. Corgi Great Dane Mix
Friendly, active, and easy-going, this mix is ideal for families and first-time dog owners.
Which Great Dane Mix is Right for You?
Whether you’re drawn to the loyal Labradane or the protective Daniff, each Great Dane mix brings unique traits to the table. Due to their large size and energy levels, most Dane mixes require a spacious living environment and plenty of exercise.
Do you have a favorite Great Dane mix? Let us know which one catches your eye in the comments below!