The Great Danoodle a towering blend of the dignified Great Dane and the brainy Poodle is a gentle giant with a heart as big as its paws. Known for their hypoallergenic coats and loyal nature, these dogs are winning over families who want a low-shedding companion with the presence of a guardian angel. But owning a dog weighing over 100 pounds isn’t for the faint of heart.
Let’s dive into their quirks, care needs, and whether this larger-than-life doodle belongs in your home.
Introduction: The Great Danoodle at a Glance
A Great Danoodle (or Great Danedoodle) is a cross between a Great Dane and a Standard Poodle. These hybrids combine the Dane’s calm, patient nature with the Poodle’s intelligence and allergy-friendly curls. Ideal for active families with space, they’re equal parts protectors, playmates, and couch potatoes. But before you fall for those soulful eyes, let’s unpack the realities of life with a giant doodle.
Origins & History: A Legacy of Nobility and Brains
From Boar Hunter to Gentle Giant
- History: Bred in 16th-century Germany to hunt wild boar, later refined as estate guardians for European nobility.
- Traits: Nicknamed the Apollo of dogs for their regal stature. Despite their size, they’re affectionate and patient with kids.
- Fun Fact: Scooby-Doo’s breed? A Great Dane!
The Poodle: More Than a Fancy Haircut
- History: Originated as German water retrievers; became the French aristocracy’s favorites for their trainability and elegance.
- Traits: Ranked the 2nd smartest dog breed, hypoallergenic, and versatile in roles from circus performer to service dog.
The Great Danoodle’s Rise
This mix gained traction in the early 2000s as part of the doodle trend. Breeders aimed to create a family-friendly giant with the Poodle’s low-shedding coat and the Dane’s mellow temperament.
Physical Traits: How Big Do Great Danoodles Get?
Size & Weight Variations
Great Danoodles vary based on their Poodle parent’s size:
| Poodle Parent | Height | Weight |
| Standard Poodle | 24–32 inches | 70–110 pounds |
| Smaller Poodle | 22–28 inches | 60–90 pounds |
Coat & Colors
- Coat Types: Wavy, curly, or a mix (inheriting the Poodle’s hypoallergenic traits).
- Common Colors: Black, gray, harlequin, fawn, blue, or apricot. Some have phantom (two-toned) patterns.
- Shedding: Minimal to moderate; weekly brushing reduces loose hair.
Distinctive Features
- Build: Lean and muscular with long legs (Dane influence) and a deep chest.
- Face: Expressive eyes, a square muzzle, and floppy ears that frame their face.
- Tail: Long and slightly curved, often wagging enthusiastically.
Pro Tip: Their size can intimidate strangers, but their goofy, playful demeanor quickly puts people at ease!
Temperament: The Great Danoodle’s Personality Unveiled
Key Personality Traits
- Gentle & Patient: Known for being nanny dogs with children.
- Loyal Protector: Naturally watchful but rarely aggressive. They’ll bark to alert you, not to intimidate.
- Playful & Goofy: Loves zooming around the yard or playing tug-of-war.
Ideal Home Environment
- Space Requirements: A house with a securely fenced yard. Apartments are possible but challenging.
- Families: Thrives in active households with older kids (their size can accidentally knock over toddlers).
- Seniors: Suitable if the owner can handle their strength on walks.
Potential Challenges
- Separation Anxiety: Forms deep bonds and may destructively chew if left alone for too long.
- Socialization Needs: Early exposure to people, pets, and noises prevents shyness or overprotectiveness.
- Leash Manners: Their strength requires consistent training to avoid pulling.
Health & Lifespan: Keeping Your Giant Healthy
Common Health Issues
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia
- What It Is: Malformed joints causing pain or arthritis.
- Prevention: Maintain a healthy weight, provide joint supplements (glucosamine), and avoid excessive jumping.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)
- What It Is: Life-threatening stomach twisting. Common in deep-chested breeds.
- Prevention: Feed smaller meals throughout the day, avoid exercise after eating, and consider preventative gastropexy surgery.
Heart Disease
- What It Is: Dilated cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart) is common in Great Danes.
- Prevention: Annual vet check-ups with echocardiograms for early detection.
Hypothyroidism
- What It Is: Underactive thyroid gland, leading to weight gain and lethargy.
- Prevention: Regular blood tests and medication if diagnosed.
Lifespan
- Average: 8–12 years shorter than smaller breeds but longer than pure Great Danes (7–10 years).
Grooming Your Great Danoodle: Taming the Curls
Step-by-Step Grooming Routine
Brushing
- Frequency: 3-4 times weekly.
- Tools: Slicker brush for curls + undercoat rake for loose hair.
Bathing
- Frequency: Every 6-8 weeks.
- Products: Hypoallergenic shampoo to protect their skin.
Professional Grooming
- Frequency: Every 8-12 weeks for trims (especially around eyes and paws).
- Style Tips: A puppy cut keeps their coat manageable.
Ears, Teeth & Nails
- Ears: Clean weekly with a vet-approved solution to prevent infections.
- Teeth: Brush daily with enzymatic toothpaste to avoid periodontal disease.
- Nails: Trim monthly to prevent cracking or overgrowth.
Pro Tip: Start grooming early! A 100-pound dog who hates nail trims is no joke.
Exercise & Training: Channeling Their Energy Wisely
Exercise Needs
- Daily Activity: 60+ minutes of walks, fetch, or swimming.
- Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys, scent games, or agility courses (yes, giants can jump!).
- Playtime: Loves interactive toys like flirt poles or treat-dispensing balls.
Training Tips for Success
Start Early
- Socialize puppies with diverse environments, sounds, and people.
Use Positive Reinforcement
- Reward good behavior with high-value treats (cheese, chicken) and praise.
Leash Training
- Use a front-clip harness to reduce pulling during walks.
Advanced Commands
- Teach place or settle to manage their size in small spaces.
Common Training Challenges
- Stubborn Streaks: Keep sessions short (10–15 minutes) and engaging.
- Distractions: Train in quiet areas first, then gradually add stimuli.
Pros & Cons of Owning a Great Danoodle
Pros
- Hypoallergenic Coat: Ideal for allergy sufferers.
- Gentle with Kids: Patient and protective family companions.
- Highly Trainable: Excels in obedience, therapy work, or service roles.
- Low Barking: Less vocal than smaller breeds.
Cons
- Space Demands: Needs room to stretch and play.
- Costly Care: High food bills (80–80–120/month), vet costs, and grooming.
- Short Lifespan: Prepare for heartbreak sooner than with smaller dogs.
- Strength Challenges: Not ideal for first-time dog owners or those with limited mobility.
Finding a Great Danoodle: Breeder vs. Rescue
Choosing a Reputable Breeder
- Cost: 1,500–1,500–3,500.
- Red Flags: No health testing on parents (hips, heart, thyroid).
- Multiple litters were available year-round.
- Refuses to let you visit their facility.
- Green Flags: Provides OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) certifications.
- Offers a health guarantee and lifetime breeder support.
Adoption Options
- Rescue Groups: Check Great Dane or Poodle rescues (e.g., Great Dane Rescue Alliance).
- Shelters: Adult mixes occasionally appear-patience is key!
Great Danoodle vs. Other Giant Doodles
| Breed | Size | Shedding | Energy Level |
| Great Danoodle | 70–110 lbs | Low | Moderate |
| Bernedoodle | 50–100 lbs | Low-Moderate | High |
| Saint Berdoodle | 100–150 lbs | Moderate | Low-Moderate |
Why Choose a Great Danoodle? They’re calmer than Bernedoodles and more hypoallergenic than Saint Berdoodles.
Real-Life Stories: Great Danoodles in Action
Titan the Therapy Dog
Titan, a 95-pound Great Danoodle, works at a children’s hospital in Colorado. His handler shares. Kids undergoing chemo light up when Titan visits. He’s gentle, doesn’t shed on their IV lines, and senses when someone needs comfort.
Luna the Family Guardian
Luna, an 85-pound Danoodle, protects a rural Texas farm. Her owner says. She herds our goats, alerts us to coyotes, and still sleeps at the foot of our toddler’s bed. Best of both worlds.
Conclusion: Is a Great Danoodle Your Perfect Giant?
The Great Danoodle is a loyal, low-shedding giant with the heart of a Dane and the brains of a Poodle. If you have space, time, and a love for big dogs, they’ll reward you with endless loyalty and laughter. But if you’re budget-conscious or prefer a low-maintenance pet, consider a smaller doodle.
Either way, life with a Great Danoodle is an unforgettable journey one filled with pawprints the size of your hand and love as vast as their stature.
FAQs About Great Danoodles
How much do they eat daily?
4–6 cups of high-quality kibble, split into 2–3 meals to prevent bloat.
Can they live in hot climates?
Yes, but provide shade, and AC, and avoid midday exercise. Their coat insulates against heat.
Are they aggressive?
No! They’re protective but not aggressive. Early socialization prevents over-guarding.
Final Thought
Great Danoodles prove that the best companions aren’t measured in size but in the depth of their devotion.