Training a Great Dane: what works and what to expect
How the Great Dane learns, common training challenges and what motivates it.
Start from day one, simply because anything cute at 10 kg becomes a problem at 70. Jumping up, leaning into people, pulling on the lead and stealing from worktops all need clear rules early. Danes are sensitive and respond well to calm voices, food rewards and consistent routines; harsh corrections tend to make them shut down or grow wary.
Lead manners come first. A front-clip harness and regular loose-lead practice in quiet places will save your shoulders later. Many Danes also go through a fearful spell between 6 and 18 months, when a wheelie bin or a garden statue suddenly looks alarming. Stay patient, keep experiences positive, and let your dog observe from a distance before approaching.
Great Dane training in numbers
Easy to train
Barking
5 means very vocal
Copes with alone time
Open with strangers
Good with other dogs
Good with children