If you’re a fan of big dogs with bigger hearts, then you will love the Great Dane Dalmatian Mix! As the offspring of a Great Dane and a Dalmatian, it is no surprise that these designer dogs are one of the largest mixes out there.
Despite its intimidating size, the Great Dane Dalmatian mix, sometimes referred to as Great Dalmatians, is a gentle giant that can make a perfect family pet, an outdoor companion, and even a formidable watchdog.
This article will give you everything you need to know about this hybrid dog, including its physical characteristics, temperament, costs, and more. Keep reading to find out if the Great Dalmatian is the right dog for you!
What Is a Great Dane Dalmatian Mix?
Photo by @king_the_greatdal (IG)
A Great Dane Dalmatian mix is a combination of a Great Dane and a Dalmatian. This designer breed is muscular, multi-colored, and perfect for families, outdoor expeditions, and as an overall companion dog.
Because of the unique combination of its parent breeds, the Great Dane Dalmatian mix is recognizable by its lean but sizable frame and patterned black and white coats, which are great for hunting, sports, and other outdoor recreation.
Similarly, it also takes on the general temperaments of both its parents. As a result, these mixes are very sweet, cheerful, and gentle, especially when it comes to showing affection for their family members.
Despite the popularity of its parents, this mix is uncommon and not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Still, there are a number of these Dalmatian Great Dane mix dogs that can be found from breeders and shelters across the nation, so long as you know where to look.
Keep reading for more details on its appearance, personality, possible expenses, health issues, and everything else you need to know about this gorgeous mix!
Great Dane Dalmatian Mix Origin and History
The origins of the Great Dane Dalmatian mix can be hard to trace. Since it is not very common, little is known about its history except that the mix itself is likely a result of accidental breeding.
For potential insights on its lineage, however, let us look at the background of its Great Dane and Dalmatian parents.
Great Danes are often dubbed as the ‘Apollo’ of dogs due to their imposing and intimidating stature. These very large hunting dogs are muscular, bulky, and energetic, but despite their appearance, they are gentle in nature.
Meanwhile, Dalmatians are also known for their iconic spotted coats, which is why they are also called ‘spotted coach dogs.’
Coming from a long line of carriage dogs, a purebred Dalmatian is as physically gifted as the Great Dane.
These two are not from the same breed group, which means that Great Dane Dalmatian mixed dogs will inherit different sets of characteristics and traits from their purebred parents.
Great Dane Dalmatian Mix Appearance
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As with other mixed breed dogs, the appearance of a Great Dane Dalmatian mix largely depends on which physical traits of its parent breeds it will inherit.
Generally, Great Dane Dalmatian mix dogs have short coats with a singular base color and multi-colored splotches or patches. These pups do not always inherit the ‘spotted’ appearance of their Dalmatian parent breed.
Their base coats can come in a variety of colors, such as white, black, liver, brindle, and blue. Their spots or patches often come in darker colors scattered irregularly around their fur.
A Great Dane Dalmatian mix puppy is also likely to have an elongated head and a flat skull with medium-sized, triangular ears.
Watch this video to have a better picture of what a Dalmatian Great Dane mix looks like:
Dalmatian and great dane mix ( mother playing with her pup )<a href="https://youtu.be/JoR2CJ8kvj0" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.bubblypet.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FJoR2CJ8kvj0%2F0.jpg" alt="Dalmatian and great dane mix ( mother playing with her pup )" width="1280" height="700" /><br />Watch this video on YouTube</a>
Great Dane Dalmatian Mix Size and Weight
While this designer breed may not be as big as other mixes of Great Dane dogs, large pups are still to be expected from this hybrid.
Great Dane Dalmatian dogs can weigh anywhere between 50 and 150 pounds. Some Great Dane Dalmatian mix dogs can even weigh up to 200 pounds. On the other hand, its height ranges from 19 to 32 inches tall.
These dogs typically reach their maturity at about 1 to 2 years of age. Their weight and size differ for many reasons. For one, male dogs naturally grow heavier and larger than female dogs.
Genetics also plays a large role in determining size. If its Great Dane parent’s genes are stronger, the Great Dalmatian mix puppy will take on a larger and more muscular build as it grows.
Great Dane Dalmatian Mix Temperament and Personality
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Some are intimidated by the sheer size of the Great Dane Dalmatian mixe. However, these pups are very affectionate, friendly, and loyal.
The Great Dane mix, much like its parent dog breeds, is a gentle giant at heart. It is very sociable and will generally get along with humans and other pets, especially after proper socialization training.
This also means that it is rarely aggressive or hostile. If a Great Dalmatian begins showing aggressive temperament, it may be due to discomfort or medical ailments.
This designer breed is also an intelligent dog. As hunting flows in its veins, this pup is sharp, alert, and curious, with moderate to high energy levels.
These traits are perfect for active owners looking for an outdoor companion to join them on adventurous expeditions.
Combining these with their loyalty and devotion to their owners, Great Dane Dalmatian mixes make fantastic guard dogs. They have strong protective instincts that pair well with their sharp senses.
However, the Great Dane Dalmatian dog’s attachment to its owners might cause some issues. Their over-attachment may lead to separation anxiety.
Overall, this designer dog has a very sharp, cheerful, and amicable temperament that any dog owner will grow to love and adore.
Great Dane Dalmatian Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
With its stellar physiques and active lifestyle, the Great Dane Dalmatian mix is a very healthy hybrid dog. However, just like any other large dog breed, it has a relatively shorter lifespan of around 8 to 12 years.
Its lifespan is influenced by several factors, such as diet, exercise, and medical ailments.
Here are some common health problems of Great Dane Dalmatians:
Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is especially common in large dogs. The Great Dane parent of this mix is highly susceptible to this condition. Hip dysplasia affects the development of their hip joints as early as four months of age, which may lead to deformity, limping, and pain.
Canine Obesity: Having a huge dog breed that can weigh up to 200 pounds sometimes leaves cases of canine obesity unnoticed. Without a proper diet and ample exercise, a Great Dalmatian mix may grow beyond its healthy weight, reducing its lifespan significantly.
Cardiomyopathy: Cardiomyopathy is among the few Great Dane health issues related to the heart. Also called canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DMC), this ailment is caused by an inability to pump blood throughout the dog’s vascular system properly.
Deafness: Deafness can either be genetic or caused by toxic or viral damage to an unborn puppy. This degeneration or loss of hearing is a common ailment for the Dalmatian breed, which can be passed on to the Great Dalmatian mix pup.
Aside from these, some specific reproductive health issues differ between male and female dogs, similar to their Dalmatian and Great Dane parents.
Owners of this beautiful designer breed should always be on the lookout for symptoms of any of these health issues. As always, the best course of action is a healthy lifestyle with regular visits to a trusted veterinarian.
How to Take Care of Your Great Dalmatian
Photo by @king_the_greatdal (IG)
Taking care of a mixed-breed dog is not too different from taking care of purebreds. Time, dedication, and resources are needed to ensure that your furry friend leads a healthy, active, and happy lifestyle.
If you’re looking to add a Great Dane Dalmatian mix to your home, here is a short guide on the basics of what you need to know to take care of this majestic dog.
Food and Diet
As with most dogs, diet is crucial to the well-being of this mix. Although dietary needs usually differ between dogs, the large stature of the Great Dalmatian mix gives us an idea of what food and how much food it needs.
How much to feed your Great Dalmatian depends on its age and weight. A fully-grown Great Dalmatian should eat around 2,000 and 3,000 calories per day, around 2 to 5 cups of quality dog food.
Both its parent breeds require a high-protein, moderate-fat diet, so expect the same for a Great Dalmatian. Beef, pork, and fish are good sources of protein and should be balanced with fruits, vegetables, and carbohydrates.
Cleaning and Grooming
When it comes to grooming, the Great Dane Dalmatian is relatively low-maintenance compared to other breeds.
Unless your pup’s Dalmatian parent is a long-haired Dalmatian, the Great Dane Dalmatian mix will usually inherit the short, sleek coats of its parent breeds.
Weekly brushing is enough to maintain the health of its coat and fur. Bathing, on the other hand, can be done every one to two months or whenever needed.
Nail trimming and teeth cleaning should also be incorporated into your Great Dane Dalmatian dog’s regular grooming ritual.
Training and Exercise
Training and socialization should begin early to aid your dog’s development throughout its puppyhood.
Although a Great Dalmatian mix puppy may have fits of stubbornness, its intelligent and loyal nature makes it responsive to training, especially when using a reward system. Positive reinforcement will work best for these pups.
Socialization should also begin at an early age. Although this hybrid breed is generally very friendly and sociable, proper socialization will better equip them to handle interaction with people, other dogs, and pets.
For exercise, keep in mind that the Great Dane Dalmatian has moderate to high energy levels. In other words, ample exercise and physical stimulation should be provided to them daily.
Moderately long walks at a nearby trail or visits to a dog park are some ways you can fulfill your Dalmatian Great Dane mix dog’s exercise requirements.
How Much Does a Great Dane Dalmatian Mix Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
If you are considering buying a Great Dane Dalmatian mix puppy, costs will vary greatly depending on where you purchase it. A baseline price from a reputable breeder can range anywhere from $800 to $1,500.
Before considering taking this mixed pup home, you should also factor in the costs of owning and maintaining a Great Dane Dalmatian pup. Among these basic expenses are food, collars, grooming essentials, and vet visits.
Here is a table of the initial costs of taking care of a Great Dane Dalmatian mix:
Aside from these expenses, it is also important for owners to set aside emergency funds, especially when it comes to treating a health issue.
Places to Find Great Dane Dalmatian Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
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Since this mix is uncommon, you might encounter issues with finding breeders or shelters where you can find a Great Dane Dalmatian mix puppy.
However, this does not mean you should lose hope. There are several reputable breeders for both Great Danes and Dalmatians that might have a mixed breed pup waiting for you.
Here is a list of possible places to purchase your very own Great Dane Dalmatian mix:
AKC Marketplace – The American Kennel Club Marketplace is an excellent place to look for puppies from credible breeders. If you go through the list of available Great Danes and Dalmatians for sale, you might be able to locate a breeder that offers a mix of these two breeds.
Greenfield Puppies – Greenfield Puppies is a pet advertising website that aims to connect puppies of all breeds to the right families. Through its ‘Puppy Finder’ feature, you can filter your search for dogs according to different metrics. All advertised puppies from this site come from ethical and credible breeders.
Puppy Spot – PuppySpot provides a roster of puppies that can be purchased from AKC-registered breeders around the country. Aside from their impressive standard for breeder screening and travel networks, they also offer financial aid or reimbursement for health-related concerns.
Aside from these places, you can also try reaching out to Dalmatian and Great Dane breeders to inquire about your options.
You can quickly check out our list of the best Great Dane breeders and Dalmatian breeders for your convenience.
Adopting or rescuing a pup is also a viable option, especially for those on a budget. While it may be a tad more difficult to find a Dalmatian Great Dane mix from rescue centers, they may have one occasionally.
Here are rescue shelters that may house your future Great Dane Dalmatian mix pup:
Great Dane Friends of Ruff Love (GDFRL) – Founded in 2009, this shelter has rescued over 725 Great Danes, mixed breeds, and dogs with special needs. This organization prioritizes the quality, safety, and health of its rescues and ensures that its pups go home to compatible families.
Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue League, Inc. (MAGDRLI) – This rescue organization offers Great Danes and their mixes to several states, such as New Jersey, Washington, and New York. It boasts a strict adoption screening process and fencing policy to make sure that its rescued dogs remain safe and well-taken care of throughout their lives.
Save the Dalmatians & Other Canine Rescue, Inc. (SDOCRI) – Save the Dals aims to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome unwanted or abandoned Dalmatians. Although their doors are open for other breed groups, they primarily focus on Dalmatians. They also help in spreading awareness and education about the breed.
Additionally, you can also refer to our list of top Great Dane rescue organizations to see if they have Great Dane Dalmatian mix puppies in their listings.
Adopting dogs may prove to be complicated at times, especially if you are inexperienced in the process. Check out our ultimate guide to dog adoption to aid you in finding and taking a new puppy home.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Great Dalmatian Mix
As with most dogs, a Great Dalmatian mix has its own set of strong points and some minor drawbacks to look out for.
Looking at the pros and cons of owning these mixed-breed dogs should help you with this decision.
Here is a short list of the advantages or benefits of owning a Great Dane Dalmatian mix:
Great physique and energy: Having hunting dogs as parent breeds means this mix is suited for active owners looking for a companion for their adventurous lifestyles. Whether hunting, trekking, or just plain running, a Great Dane Dalmatian mix will love to participate in the most physically-stimulating activities.
Good family companions: A Great Dalmatian is generally very affectionate and will get along with most people, even children. Furthermore, it is an excellent guard dog that will watch over its family members.
Low maintenance: With its short coat inherited from its parent breeds, a Great Dalmatian’s grooming needs are minimal. Weekly brushing and occasional baths are enough to maintain its stunning good looks.
Now, look at some of the issues you might face in owning a Great Dane Dalmatian:
Prone to health issues: Health problems might become an issue for these mixed dogs, especially if they inherit the condition from a parent. Heart conditions, hip and elbow dysplasia, canine obesity, and deafness are some things you should be prepared for if you decide to take this mixed breed home.
More expensive: As a medium to large dog, a Great Dalmatian mix needs more portions of food, bigger beds, and sturdier accessories like leashes, collars, and toys. Owners should be prepared to shoulder these costs throughout the years.
Difficult to find: Since the Great Dane Dalmatian mix is not very common, it might be difficult to find a reputable and ethical breeder that offers this particular designer breed. Still, you can begin your search with the list of breeders and rescues recommended in this article.
Knowing these basic pros and cons, as well as doing your own research, are some of the most important steps you should take as a potential Great Dane Dalmatian owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photo by @sunnythegreatdalmatian (IG)
Do Great Dane Dalmatian Mixes Bark a Lot?
Great Dane Dalmatian mixes do not bark excessively, so you can expect low to moderate barking from these dogs. If a Great Dalmatian starts to bark a lot, it may be experiencing pain, anxiety, or discomfort.
Do Great Dane Dalmatian Mixes Shed a Lot?
Both Dalmatians and Great Danes shed heavily, so we can expect
Great Dane Dalmatian mixes to be moderate to heavy shedders as well, especially during the spring and fall.
Weekly brushing is recommended to avoid large amounts of shedding. You might also want to consider investing in a quality vacuum.
Are Great Dane Dalmatian Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Unfortunately, the Great Dane Dalmatian mix is not hypoallergenic. These mixed breed pups are seasonal shedders, so expect moderate amounts of loose fur and dander around your house, which may trigger allergies.
Final Thoughts: Is a Great Dalmatian Mix the Right Dog for You?
Coming from two sought-out breeds, it comes as no surprise that the Great Dane Dalmatian mix is an excellent designer dog that makes for well-rounded companions and pets.
This dog is most suited for those leading active, outdoorsy lifestyles that can satisfy a Great Dane Dalmatian pup’s need for mental and physical stimulation. It is also great as a family pet that can play with and watch over children.
However, these dogs’ size and energy may be a handful for first-time dog parents. Therefore, the Great Dalmatian is recommended for experienced dog owners.
Do you think a Great Dane Dalmatian mix is fit for you? Let us know in the comments below!
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