Sunday, March 24, 2013

For Healthy Puppies Visit Great Dane Breeders In North Carolina

By Jill Faulkner


The Apollo of dogs, the Great Dane, is a gentle giant. It did not originate from Denmark. This is one of the tallest dog breeds. One of its ancestors is the mastiff. Great Dane breeders in North Carolina are dedicated to producing healthy, friendly family dogs. They will be pleased to show you their stock.

Genuine breeders will not sell a dog unless they are happy that it is going to a knowledgeable, kind home. It is a good sign if breeders have people waiting for puppies. By buying from a breeder with a good reputation, you will know you are purchasing a healthy dog which has come from healthy parents.

Massive and powerful, the males measure at least 30 inches at the shoulder. Depending on the age, height and build, males weigh from 90 to perhaps 200 pounds. Females tend to be longer in the body and not as heavy as males. Apart from heavy bones and a massive frame, Great Danes have rectangular heads, muscular necks and deep muzzles. The tail is never docked. It is thick at the base, tapering to hock level. Early in their history, the dogs were used to hunt wild boar and bear and have remained fast and nimble.

They are gentle, calm dogs. They can be trained as watchdogs but their massiveness and deep bark would put off most burglars. They do not bark excessively. Despite their size, they don't need a lot of space but they do require regular exercise. The largest of the breed often have more health issues than the smaller individuals. Joint and heart problems affect some and bloat is quite common in dogs of large breeds. By feeding several smaller feeds, bloat can often be prevented. Reputable breeders will have had their breeding stock checked for genetic problems.

This breed comes in a number of colours from harlequin and mantle to fawn, brindle, blue and black. Harlequin dogs are white with irregular black patches while mantle dogs have solid black over white with a white muzzle, chest, collar and tail-tip. Some have white blazes. These dogs are low-maintenance as the short, smooth coat will stay looking good with a regular brushing.

Visit several breeders if you can. Watch the puppies playing together as this will help you ascertain the character of each one. Ask to meet the parents. The temperament of the mother is often passed on to her puppies.

The puppies should be friendly and inquisitive. They should have been socialised from a very early age. Puppies with a pot belly should be avoided as they may have a worm infestation or have been fed incorrectly. Don't rush when selecting a new companion.

With its majestic, dignified air, the Great Dane is an imposing dog. However it is also playful and kind. It forms a very loyal attachment to its family and gets on well with children. It is well-balanced and long-striding. Large dogs are a menace if not socialised and obedient so be sure to take your Great Dane to obedience training if you need help. For a loyal and loving companion, seek out Great Dane breeders in North Carolina.




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