The Great Danoodle, also known as the Great Danepoo or Danedoodle, is a rare designer breed gaining attention for its blend of size, elegance, and affection. A cross between the majestic Great Dane and the intelligent Standard Poodle, this breed offers the best of both worlds. With their unique appearance, gentle temperament, and loving nature, they make excellent companions for families and individuals alike.
Despite their imposing size, Great Danoodles are affectionate, adaptable, and social, making them a popular choice for those seeking a loyal, playful pet. Whether you’re drawn to their personality or curious about their care needs, this guide will provide everything you need to know about these charming dogs.
Great Danoodle at a Glance
Here’s a snapshot of the key characteristics of a Great Danoodle to help you quickly get a feel for the breed:
| Breed Summary | Great Danoodle Quick Facts |
| Breed Purpose | Companion dog |
| Breed Size | Large to Giant |
| Height | 22-27 inches (56-69 cm) |
| Weight | 70-100 pounds (32-45 kg) |
| Coat Type | Short to medium, wavy to curly, dense coat |
| Shedding | Moderate, throughout the year |
| Common Coat Colors | Black, white, blue, fawn, cream, gray, red, silver, brindle, harlequin |
| Lifespan | 6 to 10 years |
| Temperament | Affectionate, social, protective |
| Energy Level | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs | 45-60 minutes daily |
| Average Price | $700 to $1,500 |
| Best for | Active families or individuals |
| Parent Breeds | Great Dane and Standard Poodle |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly brushing (short coat) or 2-3 times weekly (curly coat); monthly bath |
| Dietary Needs | High-protein diet; 3,000+ calories daily |
| Good with Children? | Yes, with supervision due to the size |
| Trainability | Highly trainable but requires consistency |
Meet the Parent Breeds: A Look at the Great Dane and Standard Poodle
To truly understand the Great Danoodle, it’s important to explore the history and characteristics of its parent breeds. Both the Great Dane and the Standard Poodle bring unique traits that shape the Great Danoodle’s personality, appearance, and care needs.
The Great Dane: Majestic and Gentle
The Great Dane is often referred to as a “gentle giant,” a title well-earned by its calm demeanor and impressive size. The breed’s history dates back to 3000 B.C., with ancient Egyptian artifacts featuring dogs resembling Great Danes. However, the modern Great Dane we know today originated in 16th-century Germany, where it was bred as a hunting dog, known as the “Deutsche Dogge.”
These dogs were valued for their ability to hunt wild boar and protect estates. Over time, they became symbols of nobility and luxury, often adorned with gilded collars and treated as members of the family.
- Size: 28-32 inches (male); 110-175 pounds
- Coat: Short, sleek, and shiny, available in colors like black, blue, brindle, harlequin, and merle
- Temperament: Friendly, loyal, and protective
Despite their size, Great Danes are gentle and affectionate, making them excellent family dogs.
The Standard Poodle: Intelligent and Versatile
The Standard Poodle originated in Germany, where it was bred as a water retriever. The name “Poodle” comes from the German word “pudelin,” meaning “to splash in water.” Over time, French nobility adopted the breed for its intelligence and elegance, leading to its rise as a symbol of sophistication.
Poodles are known for their hypoallergenic coats, versatility, and remarkable intelligence. While the breed comes in multiple sizes, the Standard Poodle is the largest and is commonly used in designer crosses like the Great Danoodle.
- Size: 15-21 inches; 40-70 pounds
- Coat: Dense and curly, available in a wide range of colors
- Temperament: Intelligent, energetic, and eager to please
The Standard Poodle’s intelligence and trainability make it a highly desirable breed for families and individuals alike.
Appearance: What Does a Great Danoodle Look Like?
The Great Danoodle’s appearance is as unique as its parentage. These dogs inherit traits from both the Great Dane and the Standard Poodle, resulting in a variety of coat types, colors, and sizes.
Size
The Great Danoodle is a large to giant dog, though typically smaller than a purebred Great Dane. Their size varies based on genetics, with males reaching 22-27 inches in height and 70-100 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 70-85 pounds (32 to 39 kg), and males weigh around 85 to 100 pounds (39 to 45 kg).
Coat and Color
The coat of a Great Danoodle can vary widely:
- Coat Types: Short to medium, curly and dense like a Poodle or sleek like a Great Dane
- Colors: Black, white, blue, fawn, cream, gray, red, silver, brindle, and harlequin
Brindle and harlequin patterns are particularly striking and add to the breed’s unique charm.
Temperament: Are Great Danoodles Good Family Dogs?
Great Danoodles are known for their affectionate and loyal nature, making them wonderful family pets. Their temperament is a blend of the Great Dane’s gentle disposition and the Poodle’s intelligence, similar to the popular Great Dane Lab Mix.
Key Traits
- Affectionate: They form strong bonds with their families and thrive on companionship.
- Protective: Great Danoodles are natural watchdogs, alerting you to any potential threats.
- Social: They get along well with children and other pets but require early socialization.
While generally even-tempered, Great Danoodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Consistent training and socialization are essential to ensure they grow into well-rounded adults.
Exercise Needs: Keeping Your Great Danoodle Active
Given their size and energy levels, Great Danoodles require 45-60 minutes of daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. This can include:
- Walks: Long, brisk walks to stretch their legs
- Playtime: Fetch or tug-of-war for mental stimulation
- Hikes: A great way to engage their adventurous side
Adequate exercise not only prevents boredom but also helps maintain their weight and overall well-being. Engaging them in activities is crucial for these energetic dogs, making them one of the Best Large Dogs for Families.
Grooming: Do Great Danoodles Shed?
The grooming needs of a Great Danoodle depend on their coat type:
- Curly Coat (Poodle-like): Brush 2-3 times per week to prevent matting.
- Short Coat (Great Dane-like): Weekly brushing to maintain a shiny, healthy coat.
Other grooming essentials include:
- Bathing: Once a month
- Nail Trimming: Monthly to prevent overgrowth
- Dental Care: Daily brushing to maintain oral health
Diet: Feeding Your Great Danoodle
Great Danoodles have large appetites, requiring 3-4 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily, split into two meals. Their diet should include:
- High-Quality Protein: For muscle maintenance and energy
- Healthy Fats: To support a shiny coat and skin health
- Complex Carbohydrates: For sustained energy levels
Ensure they have access to fresh water at all times and monitor their calorie intake to prevent obesity.
Health: Common Issues in Great Danoodles
While generally healthy, Great Danoodles can inherit health concerns from their parent breeds, such as:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Bloat (Gastric Torsion)
- Heart Conditions
- Eye Issues (e.g., cataracts or entropion)
Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle are crucial for their well-being. With proper care, Great Danoodles have a lifespan of 6 to 10 years.
Cost of Owning a Great Danoodle
The price of a Great Danoodle puppy ranges from $700 to $1,500, depending on the breeder and lineage. Additional costs include:
- Initial Expenses: Spaying/neutering, training, and supplies (~$500+)
- Monthly Costs: Food, grooming, and healthcare (~$150-200)
When choosing a name, consider exploring creative Big Dog Names to suit their impressive stature. Always choose a reputable breeder or consider adoption to ensure a healthy, well-cared-for pet.
Where to Find a Great Danoodle
Whether you choose to buy from a breeder or adopt, it’s important to find a healthy and well-cared-for pup.
Buying a Great Danoodle from a Breeder
To ensure you get a healthy puppy, buy from a reputable breeder who prioritizes the well-being of their dogs. Avoid pet stores and puppy mills, as they often neglect health and breeding standards.
Breeders to check out:
- Danes & Doodles LLC
- Brewer’s Danes and Doodles
Rescue or Adoption: A Budget-Friendly Alternative
Adopting a Great Danoodle can be a rewarding and cost-effective choice. Many mixed-breed dogs end up in shelters, giving you the chance to provide a loving home to a dog in need. Adoption fees are typically lower than buying from a breeder and often include vaccinations and spaying/neutering.
Rescue organizations to consider:
- Great Dane Friends
- The Great Dane Rescue
- Big Dogs Huge Paws
Before adopting, visit the shelter, meet the dog, and ask about its health and temperament.
Is the Great Danoodle Right for You?
The Great Danoodle is a loving, intelligent, and protective breed, but they require a significant commitment. Their size, energy needs, and grooming requirements make them best suited for active families or individuals with ample space.