Great Danes are big dogs, and it’s reasonable to wonder if their big size translates to being fast runners.
After all, many wouldn’t associate high speed with a dog the size of a Dane. We might think of smaller dogs as being fast and big dogs as lumbering and slow.
What is a Great Dane’s Speed Like?
How fast do Great Danes run? Many are surprised to learn that these gentle giants are one of the 15 fastest dog breeds. Great Dane has the potential to run 30 mph. When they are in motion, they have an excellent energy level for their size.
However, despite being able to run at such high speeds, these dogs have less stamina than many other breeds. These dogs can run at high speeds for a short time but are not the best breed for running over long distances. She will start to slow after a while.
Is It Okay to Take a Great Dane running or Jogging With You?
These dogs are great running or jogging buddies if you have a healthy respect for the dog’s limitations. Even though their stamina is limited, most of these dogs enjoy the chance to get exercise and spend time outside.
One of the most important things to remember when you run with your dog is to bring plenty of water. Dog water bowls designed for use make it easier for you to ensure your dog has plenty of water. Also, be sure to drink enough yourself.
If your run or jog is over a distance of more than a couple of miles, frequent breaks are ideal. You’ll be able to avoid wearing your dog out too much, as well as avoid needless muscle strains.
Why Can Great Danes Run Fast Over Short Distances?
A closer look at what Great Danes were bred for helps to explain why these dogs excel at short distances.
In their native Germany, Danes were bred to hunt bears and boars. Although these were game animals that lacked great speed, a boar could travel over a long distance. For these dogs to keep up with their prey, traveling over long distances was a necessity.
Although not suited to running at high speeds over several miles, these dogs were able to cover long distances because of their large size. Dogs with such long legs could easily cover more ground than their shorter-legged counterparts.
The dog’s ability to cover so much ground proved very helpful for hunters. Sometimes these animals were hunted in locations inaccessible on horseback. Because hunters would have had difficulty keeping up on foot, the dogs proved useful.
Can Great Danes Be Trained for Long-Distance Running?
Many owners are pleased to learn that Danes can be trained for long-distance running with excellent results. One of the things that make a difference in your efforts’ success is following the right tips for training specific to the breed.
Consistency, health, and safety are some of the best important things to consider when training these dogs. Many owners’ efforts to train their dogs for long-distance running fail because they have not kept these factors in mind.
Creating a Schedule That Works for Your Dog
A regular schedule for running training is a good idea for consistency for the dog, as well as to help you stay on track. For training to work most effectively, it’s a good idea to start your dog off slowly and gradually work up to more activity.
One thing that needs to remain consistent is when you have your sessions, such as the days and times. Your dog will enjoy these times and also know to expect them. Because Great Danes are often strong-willed, consistency helps minimize this trait.
Does Diet Make a Difference When Great Danes Run?
Among other things, the right diet will help give your Great Dane’s body the fuel needed. You’ll also enjoy her getting more energy which will help with going on runs. The more your dog trains, the more her muscle mass will grow with the right foods.
One of the most important things to remember about feeding your dog for endurance training is avoiding excessive treats, as well as table food. Although treats are excellent training tools, too many can cause excess weight and encourage begging.
Giving your dog food from the table is a good practice to avoid. Many foods that people eat are too high in fat, calories, or sugar, and lack the nutrient balance dogs need. Another issue with human food is that some of the ingredients are toxic for dogs.
The food you give your gentle giant should be of the highest quality. Great Danes may eat as much as 12 cups of food daily, so you will need to consider the extra cost.
When you invest in food for your dog during training, a prescription formula from your vet might be the best option. These formulas ensure that dogs get the correct mineral and protein balance for ideal results.
Can Running Affect a Great Dane’s Bone Health?
Before you start training a Great Dane for running, it is a great idea to make sure your dog has sound bone health. Even if there are no problems, using a vet-approved supplement can prove helpful. Supplements and the right diet make a difference.
Despite the large size, these dogs sometimes have brittle bones. Gradually working your dog up to more exercise and making sure they have proper nutrition always helps. Although some injuries are unavoidable, good bone health minimizes the chances.
Careful Pacing Helps Your Great Dane When Running
Many Great Danes love running so much they have no problem running well ahead of you. These dogs love spending time with you, as well as the thrill of the chase when they are out and about.
One of the most important parts of being a good pet parent is knowing our dog’s limits. Careful, gradual pacing makes all the difference, especially with the bone issues sometimes affecting these dogs.
For example, if you decide your dog will run three miles during a session, you need to make sure she does not go over that distance. Dogs aren’t bout to judge their limits the same way we do, so it is your responsibility to monitor your dog.
Making sure your training plan of choice is healthy for your dog is also a good idea. Many dog owners have ideas about what they feel Danes require for exercise. However, some of these plans are too generic for the breed’s needs and of little help.
Before you commit to a training and running program for your dog, getting your vet’s approval is a good idea. Your vet will be able to tell if the plan is a good choice for your dog. One of the most important things of all will be if the plan is safe.
Keeping Your Great Dane Healthy During Training is Important
The healthier your Great Dane is, the stronger she will be. Healthier dogs are not overweight or underweight. Minimizing your dog’s access to treats or table food will help you keep your furry friend within a healthy weight range.
Your dog’s mental health is important, as well as her physical health. making sure your dog spends plenty of time with you outside of training is important. Time spent playing with toys or other fun activities is also vital to your dog’s health.
Keeping your dog’s regular veterinary appointments will help you stay to avoid any problems. Regular shots will keep your pet protected from diseases other animals spread. A spayed or neutered dog will be healthier overall and better-behaved.
Even if shots or altering may seem of little consequences for exercise, these steps are important parts of your dog’s overall health. The healthier a dog is overall, the better the peak condition when starting training.
Should Your Great Dane Have a Full Check-Up Before Starting Training?
Although opting for a vet visit before training is your choice, there are benefits to a visit before you start your dog’s training. One of the things a vet can do during this visit has bloodwork done, which helps show how healthy your is.
Your vet will also be able to recommend a training program based on your dog’s health. Keeping your vet updated on your dog’s progress is a good idea to ensure everything works out as well as possible.
Great Danes Are Fast Runners But Not Really Long-Distance Runners
Great Danes can run very fast, especially when in pursuit of the game. These dogs have a build that makes it very easy for them to cover longer distances. With the right training, these dogs can safely run over longer distances.
High-quality food, regular veterinary care, and social stimulation will help keep your dog in excellent condition during training.
If you treat your vet as a partner in your dog’s training, you have better chances of everything working out well.
Once your dog has been trained for longer-distance running, you’ll have a willing running and jogging partner. As one of the fastest dogs around, you’ll certainly enjoy what these dogs offer if you like running
