Welcoming a Great Dane puppy into your home is an exciting adventure. These gentle giants quickly become beloved family members, but they also come with unique challenges due to their size and temperament. As someone who has raised three Danes from scratch, I’ve learned a few invaluable lessons. In this post, I’m sharing three things you should start doing right away to set your Dane up for success.
I. Play With Their Feet and Trim Their Nails Early
Why It Matters:
One of the first lessons I learned as a Dane parent is the importance of getting your puppy comfortable with having their feet handled. Great Danes, despite their massive size, often think of themselves as lap dogs. However, their sensitive feet can become a source of discomfort if neglected. To avoid a future nail-trimming nightmare, start early by playing with their feet and trimming their nails.
How To Start:
From day one, make it a habit to gently touch and play with your puppy’s feet. Pair it with positive reinforcement and treats to create a relaxed experience. Begin introducing nail trimming in short, calm sessions so it becomes a normal part of their routine.
A full-grown Great Dane who’s never had their nails trimmed is not only intimidating—it’s potentially dangerous for you and uncomfortable for them. Nail trimming shouldn’t feel like a battle. Start now and thank yourself later.
II. Bathe Them Early and Often
Create Positive Associations:
Great Danes grow fast—and if you wait too long to introduce bath time, you may end up trying to coax a 150-pound puppy into a slippery tub. (Trust me, it’s not fun.)
Start giving them baths when they’re still small enough to manage easily. Make it a calm, enjoyable experience by using warm water, gentle pet-safe shampoo, and plenty of treats. Be sure to keep them warm and safe from slipping on wet floors.
✨ Bonus Tip ✨
Toss in a lick mat or peanut-butter treat on the wall of your tub to keep them happily distracted while you wash. The goal is to make bath time something they don’t dread—and that starts with early, consistent exposure.
III. Brush Their Teeth Regularly
Don’t Skip Dental Health!
While small breeds tend to have more notorious dental issues, Great Danes still need regular oral care. Dental health is key to your dog’s overall well-being—and bad breath is just the tip of the iceberg when things go wrong.
Make It a Routine
Pick up a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste (never use human toothpaste). Start by letting your puppy sniff and taste the paste, and get them used to the feel of the brush. Make it a part of playtime or your evening wind-down routine. Regularly inspecting their gums and teeth also helps them feel comfortable with mouth handling down the line.
Your vet (and your Dane’s breath) will thank you.
Final Thoughts
Raising a Great Dane isn’t always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. By starting these habits early—playing with their feet and trimming their nails, bathing them regularly, and brushing their teeth—you’ll build trust, reduce stress, and create a smoother path for your pup’s future.
Are you a fellow Dane parent? I’d love to hear what you think is the most important thing to start early on. Drop your thoughts in the comments below and let’s help each other raise the most well-rounded dogs possible.
Leave a Reply