Most Common Great Dane Health Issues
The Great Dane, often called the “Apollo of dogs,” is a breed known for its impressive size and regal presence. These dogs can stand up to 34 inches tall and weigh as much as 200 pounds. Despite their large size, Great Danes are known for their gentle and loving nature, making them wonderful companions.
However, their size can also lead to some unique health problems. Great Danes are more likely to face health issues like joint problems and heart conditions. It’s important for anyone who owns a Great Dane to understand these potential health challenges and take steps to manage them, ensuring that their beloved pet lives a long, happy, and healthy life.
Key Takeaways
About 20-30% of Great Danes are at risk for bloat, a serious condition where the stomach twists and fills with gas. It can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.
Around 20% of Great Danes have hip dysplasia, a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit into the hip socket properly, leading to pain and arthritis.
About 40% of Great Danes may develop DCM, a heart condition that affects the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently. This can lead to heart failure if not managed properly.
Approximately 15% of Great Danes suffer from elbow dysplasia, a condition where the elbow joint doesn’t develop correctly, causing pain and lameness.
Sadly, around 25% of Great Danes are affected by cancer, making it one of the leading causes of death in the breed.
Common Great Dane Health Problems
Here are the top ten health problems that Great Danes commonly face. This guide will help you recognize these issues, explore treatment options, and learn how to prevent them.
#1: Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)
Bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), is a serious health issue for Great Danes. Their large size and deep chest make them more prone to this condition, where the stomach fills with gas and twists, which can be life-threatening.
20-30% of Great Danes may experience bloat, according to various veterinary sources.
When It Develops
Usually between 1 and 7 years old.
How To Spot Symptoms
- Swollen or distended abdomen
- Restlessness or pacing
- Excessive drooling
- Difficulty breathing
- Unsuccessful attempts to vomit
Treatment
If your Great Dane shows signs of bloat, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Treatment often involves surgery to untwist the stomach and stabilize the dog.
Prevention
Feed your Great Dane smaller, more frequent meals rather than one large meal, and avoid vigorous exercise right after eating.
#2: Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly into the hip socket, causing pain and arthritis.
20% of Great Danes are affected, according to veterinary studies.
When It Develops
Typically starts showing signs between 6 months and 2 years old.
How To Spot Symptoms
- Difficulty rising or climbing stairs
- Lameness or stiffness in the hind legs
- Reduced activity or reluctance to exercise
Treatment
Treatment may include pain relief medication, weight management, and possibly surgery, depending on the severity.
Prevention
Ensure your Great Dane maintains a healthy weight and get regular check-ups to monitor joint health.
#3: Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heart condition that affects the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently.
40% of Great Danes are at risk for DCM, according to veterinary research.
When It Develops
Often between 4 and 10 years old.
How To Spot Symptoms
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Weakness or lethargy
- Swollen abdomen
Treatment
DCM treatment may include medications to support heart function and manage symptoms. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential.
Prevention
Routine heart screenings are recommended to catch DCM early.
#4: Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia is a condition where the elbow joint doesn’t develop correctly, leading to pain and lameness.
15% of Great Danes are affected, according to veterinary reports.
When It Develops
Usually between 4 and 12 months old.
How To Spot Symptoms
- Limping or stiffness in the front legs
- Pain when touching the elbow area
- Reduced activity
Treatment
Treatment options include medication, joint supplements, and possibly surgery, depending on the severity.
Prevention
Regular vet visits and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage the risk of elbow dysplasia.
#5: Cancer
Cancer is a leading cause of death in Great Danes, affecting a significant portion of the breed.
25% of Great Danes may develop cancer, according to various studies.
When It Develops
Often seen in older dogs, usually after age 6.
How To Spot Symptoms
- Unexplained weight loss
- Swelling or lumps
- Changes in appetite or behavior
Treatment
Treatment varies based on the type and stage of cancer and may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.
Prevention
Regular veterinary check-ups and early detection can help manage cancer effectively.
#6: Von Willebrand’s Disease
Von Willebrand’s Disease is a bleeding disorder where the blood doesn’t clot properly, leading to excessive bleeding from injuries or surgery.
5-10% of Great Danes are affected, according to genetic studies.
When It Develops
Signs can appear at any age but are often noticeable in puppies or young adults.
How To Spot Symptoms
- Excessive bleeding from minor wounds
- Nosebleeds or bleeding gums
- Prolonged bleeding after surgery
Treatment
Treatment usually involves managing bleeding episodes with medications and avoiding situations that might cause bleeding.
Prevention
Genetic testing can identify carriers of the disease, so consult your vet if you’re planning to breed your Great Dane.
#7: Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, affecting metabolism and overall health.
5-10% of Great Danes are affected, according to veterinary sources.
When It Develops
Typically appears between 4 and 6 years old.
How To Spot Symptoms
- Weight gain despite a normal diet
- Lethargy or reduced activity
- Dry or flaky skin
- Hair loss
Treatment
Hypothyroidism is managed with daily thyroid hormone replacement medication.
Prevention
Regular veterinary check-ups can help catch the condition early, but it’s largely a genetic issue with no specific prevention.
#8: Osteosarcoma
Osteosarcoma is a type of bone cancer that is particularly aggressive and common in large breeds like Great Danes.
10% of Great Danes are affected, according to cancer research studies.
When It Develops
Most commonly seen in dogs between 1 and 2 years old.
How To Spot Symptoms
- Lameness or pain in a limb
- Swelling in the bone area
- Difficulty moving or favoring a limb
Treatment
Treatment often involves surgery to remove the affected bone, followed by chemotherapy.
Prevention
Regular vet check-ups and prompt attention to any unusual signs can help manage the disease early.
#9: Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a genetic eye condition that leads to gradual loss of vision and can eventually cause blindness.
2-5% of Great Danes may be affected, based on genetic testing.
When It Develops
Symptoms typically start to appear between 2 and 5 years old.
How To Spot Symptoms
- Night blindness or difficulty seeing in low light
- Bumping into objects
- Disorientation
Treatment
There is no cure for PRA, but managing the environment to accommodate vision loss can help improve quality of life.
Prevention
Genetic testing can help identify carriers and avoid breeding affected dogs.
#10: Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) occurs when the discs between the vertebrae of the spine degenerate or herniate, causing back pain and mobility issues.
5% of Great Danes are affected, according to veterinary studies.
When It Develops
Usually seen in older dogs, but it can occur at any age.
How To Spot Symptoms:
- Back pain or stiffness
- Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
- Weakness in the hind legs
Treatment
Treatment can include pain management, anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes surgery if the condition is severe.
Prevention
Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding excessive jumping or rough play can help reduce the risk.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Common Great Dane Health Issues?
Pet insurance can be a valuable tool for managing the health care costs associated with Great Danes, including their common health issues. Coverage, however, can vary widely depending on the policy and provider. Here’s a breakdown of how pet insurance generally handles some of the common health issues faced by Great Danes:
- Accident coverage
- Illness coverage
- Diagnostic tests
- Surgical procedures
- Emergency care
- Cancer treatment
- Chronic condition management
- Medications
- Specialist consultations
- Advanced diagnostics
However, it’s important to note that basic pet insurance typically does not cover pre-existing conditions. For Great Danes, pre-existing conditions could include genetic issues such as hip dysplasia or dilated cardiomyopathy. These are conditions the dog has before the policy starts, and they are usually excluded from coverage.
Some insurance companies offer more comprehensive plans that might cover pre-existing conditions or provide broader coverage. These plans tend to be more expensive but can offer extra protection for hereditary or ongoing health issues.
In summary, while pet insurance for Great Danes can cover many common health disorders, be aware that pre-existing conditions are generally not included. If your Great Dane has known health issues, you may need to look into policies that offer more extensive coverage or consider additional insurance options.
FAQs
How long do Great Danes live?
Great Danes generally have a lifespan of around 7 to 10 years. Their relatively short lifespan compared to smaller breeds is partly due to their large size and the associated health risks.
What is the number 1 killer of Great Danes?
The number one killer of Great Danes is bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV). This condition involves the stomach filling with gas and twisting, which can lead to shock and death if not treated immediately. It is particularly dangerous for Great Danes due to their deep chest and large size.
Do Great Danes have a lot of health issues?
Yes, Great Danes are prone to several health issues due to their large size and unique physiology. Common problems include bloat, hip dysplasia, dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), and elbow dysplasia. Their size also makes them more susceptible to certain cancers and joint problems, requiring careful management and regular veterinary care.
