If you are looking for an adorable pup that will love you unconditionally, the Great Danoodle could be the perfect match for you. Also known by the names of Danedoodle and Great Danepoo, this breed is a cross between a Standard Poodle and a Great Dane. They are fiercely loyal and highly affectionate, not to mention amazing watchdogs. They make great family pets because of their intelligence paired with their loving and loyal nature and are sure to make an amazing and wholesome addition to any loving home!
Due to the mixed nature of this breed, it is difficult to say exactly where and when this pup originated. The Great Danoodle likely existed through accidental mating between the Great Dane and the Poodle in nature long before any intentional efforts to bring the two breeds together began. The breed suffers from an acute lack of documentation, unlike its purebred parents, and so the history of the Great Danoodle is rather unclear. They likely came onto the breeding scene sometime in the 1980s since that is when hybrid breed popularity increased. This breed is not recognized by official clubs. However, the pup has amassed a large following of fans and pet owners across the world.
The Great Danoodle is, in very simple words, an absolute sweetheart. This dog is adorable and incredibly kind-hearted. Their gentle nature means they get along well with pretty much everyone. They love with every last bit of themselves and are incredibly devoted dogs. However, all that love may translate into some very serious separation anxiety. It is a good idea to remain just a tad bit indifferent around your pup from time to time so that they don’t develop unhealthy attachment patterns. Don’t get this dog if you can’t commit to spending time with it. While they aren’t aggressive or barky, they will definitely alert you in case of intruders or any threats that they pick up on. If you want to get a good idea of the kind of personality your Great Danoodle will grow up to have, spend some time around your puppy’s parents. Their personalities are usually fairly good indicators of the kind of temperament your pup will grow into.
On average, the Great Danoodle will grow up to be around 19 to 25 inches tall and weigh anywhere between 80 to 110 pounds.
In general, Great Danoodles are healthy dogs that live long and happy lives. This is usually due to the hybrid vigor this breed possesses thanks to mixed-breeding, which results in a larger gene pool. However, it should be understood that healthy parents are usually a guarantee of a healthy puppy. Make sure you get health clearances from both parents from the breeder and take care not to buy from breeders that cross dogs that are younger than two years of age. Two is usually the age when genetic illnesses begin to show symptoms. Schedule regular veterinary checkups so that any issues are caught and nipped in the bud. Some illnesses that your Great Danoodle may be predisposed to include joint issues, kidney disease, epilepsy, cancer, developmental problems as well as various skin problems.
This is a big pooch, and their exercise needs are proportional to their size. The Great Danoodle requires rigorous daily exercise, and due to their large size, these dogs usually aren’t suited to apartment living. A good play session, including a jog or long walk along with a game of fetch, should be good for your pup. If they don’t get to release their pent-up energy, they may become destructive. It is important to keep them mentally stimulated as well to keep boredom at bay. Their intelligence means they are very easy to train.
The needs of each Great Danoodle are different. To assess your pup’s nutritional needs, speak to a professional. Design a feeding plan accordingly. Your dog’s needs will change as they age, so be ready to introduce changes in their diet when necessary. Steer clear if free-feeding and divide their daily serving into two to three separate meals to prevent gastric issues.
This is, on average, a low-shedding pup and their coat varies depending on which parent they take after. It can be either long or short, thick and wiry like the Great Dane’s or varying degrees of curly and dense like the Poodle’s.
The grooming need depends on the coat type your Great Danoodle inherited, but in general, a good regular brushing session should be enough to keep their coat healthy and shiny. Clip their nails if they do not wear away naturally and maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your Great Danoodle’s teeth regularly. Bathe them only when necessary. Too much soap and water can irritate their skin.
An average Great Danoodle puppy will cost anywhere between $800 to $1500.
Here is a list of organizations that shelter Great Danoodles (among other breeds):