How to Make Great Danes Get Along

Dominant and aggressive behaviors are both possible and common in numerous dogs. At first glance, the Great Dane can be an intimidating dog breed to both humans and other animals. However, proper training will help you take control of any negative temperament in this dog. Although the Great Dane can be aggressive to other dogs, with careful precautions and diligent discipline, you can move past bouts of bad behavior.

  1. Great Dane

    • The Great Dane was originally used as a hunting dog in England and Germany more than 200 years ago. They were bred from Greyhounds and mastiff-sized dogs to hunt wild boar for their masters. This hunting instinct causes many Great Danes to chase livestock and other animals. This large, lovable dog breed weighs approximately 110 to 175 pounds as an adult.

    Public Aggression

    • Many dogs -- regardless of breed -- are capable of aggression. Especially when interacting with a new dog, your Great Dane might show signs of potential aggression, such as body stiffening, showing teeth and a long stare. When walking your dog in public, keep your Great Dane on a short leash and if he has a history of biting other dogs, consider using a muzzle. Consider slowly introducing your Great Danes to other dogs of various breeds -- including other Great Danes -- to help socialize him.

    Aggression at Home

    • Although this breed of dog can be a loving pet, Great Danes are capable of aggression to other dogs in the household, especially if both dogs are the same gender. Additionally, when introducing two Great Danes of the same sex, aggression and dominant behavior are possible. Introduce the two dogs slowly, preferably with each dog on a leash to prevent attacks. If necessary, take turns placing one of the dogs in a crate and allow the other dog to get used to his presence. If your Great Dane begins the motions of an attack, shout "no" in a loud, sharp voice until he learns this is unacceptable behavior.

    Additional Measures

    • Dogs of all breeds tend to lose much of their aggressive behavior once they are spayed or neutered. If aggression is still present, consider separating the two dogs and slowly integrating them until they grow accustomed to one another. If this still does not solve the problem, consider seeking assistance from a professional animal behavior specialist.