Great Danes are known for their calm temperament and affectionate nature, but like all breeds, they can develop behavioral challenges—especially if their physical, mental, or emotional needs aren’t fully met. Because of their giant size, even minor behavior issues can feel amplified in daily life.
This guide covers the most common behavioral challenges seen in Great Danes, why they happen, and how owners can manage them effectively.
Separation Anxiety
Great Danes are deeply people-oriented dogs. Many form strong emotional attachments and struggle when left alone for long periods.
Common signs include:
- Whining or barking when left alone
- Destructive chewing or scratching doors
- Pacing or restlessness
- Accidents indoors despite being house-trained
Why it happens:
- Strong bond with owners
- Sudden schedule changes
- Lack of gradual independence training
Consistent routines, short departures practiced early, and mental stimulation can help reduce anxiety-related behaviors.
Leash Pulling and Poor Leash Manners
Due to their size and strength, leash pulling is one of the most challenging behaviors for Great Dane owners.
Typical issues include:
- Pulling toward people or other dogs
- Lunging when excited
- Difficulty maintaining focus on walks
This behavior often stems from:
- Inconsistent leash training
- Under-socialization
- Excitement rather than aggression
Early leash training is especially important for Great Danes, as correcting this behavior becomes harder once they reach full size.
Jumping on People
Jumping is common in many dogs, but in a Great Dane, it can be dangerous—even if done playfully.
Why Great Danes jump:
- Excitement when greeting people
- Seeking attention
- Lack of early boundary training
Potential problems:
- Knocking over adults or children
- Reinforcing unwanted attention-seeking behavior
Teaching calm greetings and rewarding four-on-the-floor behavior is essential from puppyhood.
Destructive Chewing
Chewing is natural, but destructive chewing often signals an unmet need.
Common triggers include:
- Boredom or lack of stimulation
- Teething in puppies
- Anxiety or stress
Typical targets:
- Furniture
- Shoes
- Door frames
Providing appropriate chew toys, daily enrichment, and structured routines can greatly reduce destructive habits.
Excessive Barking or Vocalization
Great Danes are not known as excessive barkers, but certain situations can lead to vocal behavior.
Common causes:
- Alerting to unfamiliar sounds
- Boredom
- Anxiety
- Lack of mental engagement
Because Great Danes have deep, loud barks, even occasional vocalization can be disruptive if not managed.
Clumsiness-Related Behavioral Issues
Great Danes often struggle with spatial awareness, especially as adolescents.
This can lead to:
- Knocking over objects or people
- Difficulty navigating tight spaces
- Accidental stepping or tail-wag injuries
While not intentional misbehavior, it’s important to:
- Teach calm movement indoors
- Keep walkways clear
- Reinforce slow, controlled behavior
Stubbornness or Selective Listening
Great Danes are intelligent but can appear stubborn, especially if training lacks consistency.
This behavior is often caused by:
- Inconsistent rules
- Overly repetitive training sessions
- Lack of motivation
Positive reinforcement, short training sessions, and clear expectations tend to work best with this breed.
Socialization Challenges
If not properly socialized early, Great Danes may develop fear-based behaviors.
Possible signs include:
- Hesitation around new people
- Nervousness in unfamiliar environments
- Reactivity toward other dogs
Early exposure to varied environments, sounds, and people helps prevent these challenges from developing.
How to Prevent Behavioral Issues in Great Danes
Prevention is often easier than correction, especially with a giant breed.
Best practices include:
- Early obedience training
- Consistent routines
- Daily physical and mental stimulation
- Clear household rules
- Calm, confident leadership
Great Danes respond best to patience, structure, and positive reinforcement.
Final Thoughts
Most behavioral challenges in Great Danes are not signs of aggression or poor temperament—they’re signals of unmet needs or unclear communication. With early training, consistent boundaries, and adequate companionship, most issues can be prevented or resolved.
Understanding these common challenges allows owners to raise confident, well-mannered Great Danes who truly embody the gentle giant reputation.