Great Danes are known for their grand size and gentle hearts. Originating from Germany, these friendly giants make for loving family pets. However, their size and care needs come with certain costs. Here, you’ll get to delve into the financial side of owning a Great Dane. From the initial cost of getting one, to the lifelong expenses, we’ll cover it all to help you make an informed decision.
How Much Do Great Dane Puppies Cost?
When considering adding a Great Dane to your family, the first cost you’ll encounter is the price of a puppy. Prices can vary widely, usually ranging from $600 to $3,000, based on factors such as:
- Pedigree: Puppies from championship lines cost more.
- Breeder reputation: Well-regarded breeders charge higher prices.
- Geographic location: Prices can be higher in certain areas due to demand and cost of living.
Show-quality or rare-colored Danes can fly over 5,000 bucks. Additionally, initial costs also include vaccinations, microchipping, and possibly shipping if your puppy is coming from a far-off place.
- Vaccinations:
- The cost of vaccinations for Great Dane puppies can vary. Some vaccinations can cost as low as $15 to $20 per shot, while others might range from $60 to $70 or more. The total cost for all the necessary vaccinations during the first year could range from $100 to $350 or more, depending on the region and the veterinary clinic.
- Microchipping:
- Microchipping is a one-time cost that provides a form of identification for your Great Dane. The price for microchipping typically ranges from $40 to $60, although some sources suggest a range of $40 to $80 if the procedure is done at a vet clinic. However, microchip clinics put on by animal rescues might offer microchips for $10 to $15, and in some instances, there may not be a charge.
- Shipping:
- If you need to ship your Great Dane, the costs can significantly vary based on the method of shipping and distance. For domestic shipping within the US, prices could range from $2,200 to $2,400 for approximately a 10-hour journey. Cross-country ground transport can cost between $6,000 to $6,400. If shipping by air, the costs for large dogs like Great Danes start at $1,000 and could go higher depending on the airline and other related costs. Additional costs might also be incurred for crates or other requirements set by the transport companies.
Male or Female Great Danes – Pros and Cons
When it comes to choosing between male and female Great Danes, both genders have their pros and cons, especially in terms of cost implications. Here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed decision:
Size and Temperament
- Males are generally larger, standing between 30 to 34 inches (76 to 86 cm) tall, and might be more energetic. Their larger size often means higher food costs as they require more nutrition to maintain their energy levels and overall health.
- Females are slightly smaller, with a height ranging from 28 to 32 inches (71 to 81 cm), and tend to be calmer. They might eat less compared to males, which could mean a slightly lower food budget.
Health
- Gender-specific health issues: Both genders are prone to certain health issues. For example, females may face reproductive health issues, which might require veterinary care or surgeries like spaying. Males might have a higher risk of certain orthopedic problems due to their larger size.
- Spaying and Neutering Costs: The exact cost difference can vary based on the region, the veterinary clinic, and the specific needs of the dog, but on average, you can expect spaying to be more expensive than neutering. It’s always advisable to get a cost estimate from your veterinarian for a more accurate understanding of the costs involved for both procedures. These procedures help prevent unwanted pregnancies and can also prevent certain health issues.
Other Cost Implications
- Training: The temperament difference might lead to varying training costs. A more energetic and larger male might require more intensive training or professional help compared to a calmer female.
- Grooming: Both genders have short coats that are relatively easy to groom, so grooming costs are likely to be similar.
Where to Buy a Great Dane
Finding the right place to buy a Great Dane is crucial for ensuring you get a healthy, well-socialized pup.
Reputable Breeders
- Look for breeders who prioritize the health and temperament of their dogs.
- They should provide health clearances for the puppy’s parents, ensuring they are free from genetic conditions common to Great Danes.
Rescue Organizations
- You might find a lovable Great Dane in need of a new home at a breed-specific rescue or a general animal shelter.
- Rescue dogs can be a more affordable option, and you’ll be giving a dog in need a loving home.
Buy or Adopt a Great Dane?
Both buying and adopting come with their set of advantages and considerations.
Buying
- When buying, you have the opportunity to get a puppy and raise it your way.
- However, it’s more expensive and requires a long-term commitment.
Adopting
- Adopting is less costly and you get to give a dog a second chance.
- Yet, you might not know the dog’s full history which could lead to unforeseen challenges.
Great Dane Care and Maintenance Costs
Owning a Great Dane involves ongoing expenses.
Food
- Due to their size, Great Danes eat a lot! Food expenses can be around $50 to $600 per month.
Healthcare
- Routine vet checkups, vaccinations, and preventive medications are crucial to keep your gentle giant healthy.
- Regular Checkups: $50 to $250 per visit.
- Parasite Prevention Medications: $200 to $500.
- Dental Care: $300 to $700+.
- Emergency vet visits can be costly, so it’s wise to have a financial plan in place.
Grooming
- Though their short coat is low-maintenance, occasional grooming sessions are needed to keep them looking neat.
- Brushes, combs, and shampoos: $30 to $160.
- For professional grooming, it’s important to note that Great Danes are large dogs, often weighing over 95 pounds (43 kg), which could place them in a higher price range for grooming services. On a per-visit basis, grooming costs for large breeds like Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Newfoundlands can be $100 or more.
Training and Socialization
Training and socializing your Great Dane from a young age is essential. It helps in developing a well-behaved dog and ensuring it’s comfortable around other people and animals.
Training classes and socialization programs are an investment, but they pay off in the long run by preventing behavioral issues.
The cost of training a Great Dane can range from $50 to $125 per group class. If you opt for private training, the costs can significantly increase, ranging from $45 to $120 per hour, depending on the trainer’s expertise and location. The training can span several weeks to a few months, which means you could be looking at a total cost ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars for training your Great Dane.
Other Considerations
Great Danes are prone to certain health issues which can incur costs.
Emergency Medical Expenses
- Some emergency surgeries for dogs can run upwards of $5,000.
- Other health issues, like a painful condition that requires surgical treatment, can cost between $1,500 to $5,000.
Pet Insurance
- Consider investing in pet insurance at $56.75/mo to help cover unexpected veterinary expenses.
In conclusion, owning a Great Dane is a big commitment both emotionally and financially. The love and companionship of a Great Dane are unparalleled, yet it’s essential to understand the financial obligations. By being prepared, you can ensure a happy and healthy life for your gentle giant, making the cost well worth it.
