Q&A for How to Train Great Danes

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  • Question
    How do you train a Great Dane to walk on a leash?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Start in a place with few distractions, such as a backyard. My preference is the "Stop and sit" method. With the dog on a leash, walk forward; if the dog surges ahead, stop and wait for them to sit. Then reward and start walking again. The dog soon learns to keep to heel, or else they have to stop and sit.
  • Question
    Are Great Danes easy to train?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Great Danes are moderately easy to train, but their sheer size and laid-back nature can make it hard work at times. If a Great Dane doesn't want to get up, you can't force them and they quickly realize this. Motivation in the form of treats, praise, and play is crucial to getting their attention and keeping it.
  • Question
    How do you house train a Great Dane?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Use the same principles as for any pup: avoid accidents by offering regular toilet trips outside, and lots of praise when they do go in the right spot. Prevent indoor accidents by watching the dog all the time, and when you can't do this, use a crate.
  • Question
    What is the best food to feed a Great Dane?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Its crucial to feed a good quality food with a high meat and low fermentable cereal content. This reduces the risk of gas formation that leads to the life-threatening condition of bloat. Also choose a large kibble, since small kibble size is also linked to bloat. A mix of wet and dry foods, fed in small meals, is also advised.
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