In 2011, a Great Dane named Zeus from Michigan made headlines when he achieved the title of the world's tallest living dog. Zeus stood an astonishing 111.8cm (44 inches) tall at the shoulder and weighed a formidable 113kg (245 pounds).
Another example is Gibson, also known as the Gentle Giant, who lived in Reno, Nevada. While Gibson was not the tallest Great Dane, he weighed an incredible 113.4 kg (250 pounds).
These exceptional sizes are rare and well beyond the average size of most Great Danes. Typically, males tend to be larger than females, with an average height range of 76-86 cm (30-34 inches) at the shoulder and an average weight of 59-90 kg (130-200 pounds). Females, on the other hand, typically fall within a range of 71-81 cm (28-32 inches) tall at the shoulder and weigh 45-68 kg (100-150 pounds).
Factors such as genetics, diet, nutrition, and overall health can all contribute to a Great Dane's size and growth. Responsible breeders prioritize breeding for healthy, well-balanced dogs within the established breed standards to ensure overall well-being and longevity.