How Much Does a Great Dane Cost? (2024 Price Guide)

Great Dane price and expenses how much does a Great Dane cost

Have you ever wondered how much it would cost to own a Great Dane? Surely, this enormous breed would need a ton of food and maintenance, right? If these questions boggle your mind, you’re in the right article!

As you explore the possibility of having a Great Dane breed in the family, you may want to be more meticulous when looking into puppy prices from a reputable breeder.

In this article, we will be exploring the cost of owning the easygoing, majestic “Apollo of Dogs.” Do you think you could afford to have this giant breed? Keep on reading to find out!

The Average Cost of a Great Dane Puppy

Average cost of Great Dane puppy

Generally, Great Dane prices range from $600 to $2,000. However, if you purchase a Great Dane puppy from reputable breeders, expect the cost to be higher at around $1,700 to $3,000. 

Great Danes rank consistently among the top 20 most popular dog breeds, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). They are in demand in the pet industry, usually costing more than other large breeds. 

You would be paying for the quality of the Great Dane’s breeding and bloodline, as this would significantly affect your pet’s health and well-being. 

This giant breed may be no lap dog, but a glimpse of these gentle pups may make the cost of owning well worth it. 

If you want to see some Great Danes in action, watch this video:

GREAT DANE - The Gentle Giants of the Dog World

Factors Affecting the Cost of a Great Dane Puppy

Having a purebred Great Dane will be costly, especially if they are still puppies. Nevertheless, this wonderful dog will be a great addition to your family. 

So if you want to take your first steps to being an excellent dog owner, your next move should be to figure out your preferences that will fit your budget. 

The factors that may affect the Great Dane price are as follows:

  • Age: When buying Great Danes as puppies, expect to pay more due to veterinarian fees, vaccinations, and treatments the breeder pays for. A Great Dane older than five years old is considered a senior dog and typically sold for less.
  • Appearance: The Great Dane price is also affected by the dog’s coat color. Based on the AKC breed standards, the recognized coat colors in Great Danes are black, black & white, blue, brindle, fawn, harlequin, merle, silver, white, and mantle. Coat colors that are harder to achieve through breeding, such as harlequin, are more expensive.
  • Bloodline: Award-winning parents produce show-quality Great Danes. A champion-line Great Dane usually costs $800 to $3,000. Hence, expect to pay more if you want a Great Dane from the best lineages.
  • Breeder’s Reputation: A well-trusted breeder spends considerably more to maintain the quality of their dogs. Hence, your choice of breeder greatly affects the price of your Great Dane puppy. If you want purebred puppies for cheaper, consider adopting one instead.
  • Health Screenings: Due to the Great Dane’s susceptibility to hip dysplasia and bloat, reputable breeders hike the price of Great Dane puppies that underwent health checks. Sickly puppies may be offered for lower prices, but expect to spend on vet fees later on.
  • Professional Training and Socialization: This breed requires puppy training classes and canine education for good behavior. Trained puppies may be costly at first but it is arguably a good investment.

These factors greatly influence the Great Dane cost. Regardless, the gender and demand for this dog breed in your location may also affect the cost of having a Great Dane as your pet. 

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Great Dane From a Rescue? 

One of the most cost-effective ways if you want to own a Great Dane is by adopting one from a shelter or a rescue. Finding purebred Great Danes in shelters is rare, but it is not impossible. 

Adoption fees may range from around $150 to $400, depending on the shelter policies, dog’s health, and age. 

Rescued Great Danes will usually be spayed or neutered. Most of them have also had obedience training and behaviorally modified before being adopted. 

However, it will be hard to know if your pet is purebred. Regardless, you will still be giving a home to a giant companion with a pup-like personality.

Initial Cost of Great Dane Ownership

Great Dane initial costs

Before bringing home your dog, there are other expenses you must keep in mind after paying for the price of the pet itself. 

As Great Danes will be spending most of their time on your premises, you will need to invest in making your home the best fit for the safety and happiness of your pet and family members. 

Here is a list of things that will contribute to the initial average cost of owning a Great Dane: 

  • Food and Treats: Due to extreme growth spurts in the early lives of your dogs, proper nutrition should be of utmost importance, including longevity and preventing health issues. Dogs of this size require higher quality food and healthy dog treats. All in all, these may cost around $100 to $120. 
  • Food and Water Bowls: Many owners of Great Danes use elevated feeders to prevent bloating, which is very common in this breed. Investing $15 to $35 in one may truly assist your dog in reaching those corners of the food bowl while reducing strain and maintaining good posture.
  • Bed: Consider how the bed’s structure and comfort affect your Great Dane’s health and disposition. A comfy location to sleep helps relieve strain and prevent Great Danes’ hip dysplasia and arthritis. An excellent dog bed costs $50 to $200.
  • Crate: Crate training is an option for all dog owners. Consider the crate’s size, the material used, and overall quality upon purchasing. A large-sized crate should cost around $60 to $500. 
  • Leashes and Collars: If you want to walk around freely with your giant pet, you may want to invest in leashes and collars that could help you overcome the size and strength of your dog. This will set you back around $15 to $50.
  • Toys: Great Danes love to play with toys that could help stimulate them and release energy. So investing in toys such as classic tennis balls or high-quality chew toys should cost around $30 to $50.
  • Grooming Essentials: Since Great Danes have short coats, irregular bathing is crucial to minimize shedding and sustain a healthy coat. Investing in grooming tools may cost you between $40 and $180.
  • Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medication: If your Great Dane is not dewormed and unvaccinated, you need another $50 to $200 to guarantee a healthy pet. Keep in mind that prevention is better than cure.
  • Initial Vet Visits: Given this breed’s predisposition to various genetic illnesses such as bloating and bone problems, these visits are crucial in the Great Dane’s early life. These appointments may run you around $100 to $300. 
  • Initial Vaccine Shots: These puppies require multiple vaccines, such as distemper and DHPP shots, costing between $75 and $200. These are necessary puppy shots to help your pet overcome common dog illnesses. 
  • Neutering or Spaying: If you bought a Great Dane less than a year old, it is still unneutered or not spayed. You may need at least $50 to $500 to prepare for the surgical costs. 
  • Dog License: You and your Great Dane can be officially registered and identified through dog licenses. Having this license may have a price range between $10 and $20. 
  • Microchip: For only $40 to $60, you can keep your Great Danes safe and identified by microchipping them. These puppy-like giant dogs commonly slip out of their leashes and sneak out, so better be safe than sorry.
  • Miscellaneous Supplies: Other things you may need to purchase for your Great Dane may include poop bags, carpet cleaners, poop scoopers, etc. These supplies may cost you around $15 to $30. 

Here’s a table of all the expenses you should expect in having a Great Dane: 

Type of ExpenseCost
Food and Treats$100 – $120
Food and Water Bowls$15 – $35
Bed$50 – $200
Crate$60 – $500
Leashes and Collars$15 – $50
Toys$30 – $50
Grooming Essentials$40 – $180
Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications$50 – $200
Initial Vet Visits$100 – $300
Initial Vaccine Shots$75 – $200
Neutering or Spaying$50 – $500
Dog License$10 – $20
Microchip$40 – $60
Miscellaneous Supplies$15 – $30
Total Initial Cost$650 – $2,445

As seen in this table, you will need to prepare around $650 to $2,445 for your puppy, especially if you are a first-time owner of this large dog.

If you want to save money, some Great Dane breeders also give out free knick-knacks such as dog food, toys, and supplements, so be on the lookout for these deals.

Annual Cost of Owning a Great Dane

Great Dane yearly and monthly costs

Not only will your Great Dane be a great companion for years to come, but it is also important to know that you will be spending money on them during that duration. 

As your pet ages, you may encounter expenses such as vet bills and miscellaneous supplies, which could be overwhelming. Nonetheless, preparation and knowledge are key to easing these costs. 

Here’s an overview of the annual expenditures associated with owning a Great Dane:

Type of ExpenseYearly Estimate 
Food and Treats$900 – $1,200
Toys$30 – $150
Bed and Crate$240 – $500
Leashes and Collars$30 – $50
Grooming$200 – $500
Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications$150 – $250
Routine Veterinary Care$200 – $400
Pet Insurance$800 – $1,500
Vaccinations$80 – $250
Miscellaneous Supplies$30 – $50
Yearly Total$2,660 – $4,850
Average Monthly Cost$222 – $404

The yearly cost of caring for a Great Dane is nothing compared to the happiness your little fluff ball will bring to your lives! The price of around $222 to $404 per month is the same as taking care of any large breed. 

Regular check-ups, veterinary advice, and medical procedures are also crucial to maintaining your pet. 

Having at least one check-up yearly in the first five years of your Great Dane is recommended. These medical bills may amount up to $200 to $400.

Depending on where you live, these costs may differ. In addition, the lifespan of a Great Dane is between 8 and 10 years, so you should be prepared for the expenses within this duration. 

Getting your pet insured is also a good investment for your Great Dane. For around $800 to $1,500, pet insurance will serve as an emergency fund for any unexpected medical expenses. 

It is also important to understand that these are only estimated costs. Your yearly expenses may depend upon your situation and your cost-cutting strategies. 

Other Potential Expenses

All expenses associated with caring for a Great Dane have been discussed up to this point. Additionally, a potential owner must take into consideration any additional costs that may arise.

Before deciding whether to invest in them, you should consider how well you could adapt your finances with a Great Dane in your home. 

Below are some potential expenses you need to consider if you have a Great Dane:

  • Pet Daycare and Dog Walking Services: A daycare or a dog walker are ways to have someone watch over your Great Dane while you’re away. You should expect to pay anything from $20 to $30 daily for these services.
  • Kennel Club Registration: Great Dane owners may register their dogs with the AKC for around $80 to $200. By doing so, you can ensure that your dog’s ancestry will be well-documented. This is also the way to go if you plan on joining AKC events with your Great Dane.
  • Emergency Medical Treatment: Even if we try to prevent them, unexpected medical situations can happen. Emergency care for a Great Dane often costs expensive. You may be required to shell out between $1,000 and $3,000.
  • Grooming Services: Though Great Danes may not need as much grooming as frequently as other dogs, they will still benefit from a trip to the groomers. Expect to spend anywhere between $200 and $500 for grooming services. 

Except for urgent medical treatment, the additional fees above can be minimized. In light of this, it is prudent to set aside emergency funds for your pet. 

Even if it’s only a few dollars, save a little bit of money each month to secure your pet’s emergency finances.

Places to Find Great Dane Puppies for Sale and Adoption

Great Dane puppy for sale and adoption

When thinking about purchasing your Great Dane, the next question would be where to get them. Whether it may be from a breeder, a pet store, or a rescue, be sure to give your pet lots of love!

If you want to find the best pedigree, you should expect to pay a bit more for this giant dog. It’s a good thing we have trusted breeders all over the country that assure high-quality pups.

Here’s a list of Great Dane breeders you can check out if you plan to buy a puppy: 

  • Azulene Danes – The owners of Azulene Danes have dedicated their lives to producing Great Danes for more than two decades now. They collaborate with other organizations, including the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), to guarantee that their dogs are free of inherited bone illnesses, hip dysplasia, and other health conditions. 
  • Von Charm — This Great Dane breeder in Pennsylvania has been responsible for several champions over the years. Since they mainly produce show puppies, they put a lot of effort into raising Great Danes that are both mentally and physically healthy. 
  • Old Mission Danes – Old Mission Danes is a reputable Great Dane breeder who is an AKC Breeder of Merit awardee. Their major objective is to conserve the quality of a breed, not to expand its population size. 

For more options, we also have a list of the best Great Dane breeders you should look into if you want to be the next Great Dane owner.

But before you finalize your transaction, read our puppy buying guide to avoid being scammed online.

It is also worth noting that inexpensive Great Danes from backyard breeders and puppy mills may initially seem enticing. Still, the dangers to your potential pets are just not worth it.

Thus, if you want to pay lower prices for a puppy, adult dog, or well-trained Great Dane, there are plenty of them in rescue centers or local shelters needing your love and care. 

Here is a list of some Great Dane rescues and shelters you should check out: 

  • Great Dane Friends of Ruff Love (GDFRL) – Great Dane Friends has been active in rescuing purebred Danes, mixed-breed Danes, and other pets with specific requirements or health problems since 2009. They are a continuation of the movement known as Ruff Love, which lives by the motto “save one till there is none.”
  • Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue League, Inc. (MAGDRLI) – MAGDRLI has been rescuing Great Danes and Dane mixes in Maryland, Delaware, Washington, DC, Virginia, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania for almost 25 years. You must comply with their fence specifications and other requirements if you are not an experienced dog owner. 
  • Northwest Florida Great Dane Rescue, Inc. (NWFLGDR) – Foster care institutions in the Florida Panhandle stretch from Mobile, Alabama, to Jacksonville, Florida. One thing they do is raise awareness about the need to spay and neuter Great Danes. 

We also have an article regarding the best places to adopt your Great Dane. This is useful if you are not planning to register these huge dogs for shows and competitions.

Nonetheless, you will always have the opportunity to adopt or shop for your pets. The average price may vary depending on your city’s demand for Great Danes. 

We also have articles regarding dog adoption and tips on how to adopt them for free to help you in this journey of becoming a pet owner. 

Money-Saving Tips for Great Dane Owners

If you own a Great Dane, unplanned costs may be very hard to avoid. However, there is always room to cut these unnecessary long-term expenses. 

You can always enhance your hunt for alternatives by being more resourceful and creative.

Following these suggestions, Great Danes owners can save money on their large dogs if they do the following:

  • Invest in high-quality essentials. Considering you’ll only keep your Great Dane for 8 to 10 years, buying high-quality pet supplies will help you save money. Doing this will reduce the costs of replacing cheap and low-quality items.
  • Make homemade dog food. Great Dane food can be incredibly expensive, so instead of buying store-bought kibbles, make homemade meals for your pup. Studies also show that a natural diet may reduce a Great Dane’s bloating.
  • Visit the vet regularly. Regular vet visits to a licensed veterinarian could help you get in touch with experts who can provide veterinary advice to assure your pet’s health and well-being. This will cost less than emergency vet visits and unplanned medical expenses due to health issues that may endanger your Great Dane.
  • Groom your dog at home. Great Danes may require less grooming than other big dogs. Hence, you can do your dog’s grooming at home by watching YouTube tutorials.

Compared to other large breeds, these expenses are just average. Truly, the happiness and protection of your Great Dane cannot be equated to any amount of money.

Final Thoughts

The Great Dane prices may be expensive upfront, but considering these options, caring for your dog should not mean spending more money.

If you want them as pets, the Great Dane price should not be an issue other than the dog’s well-being. Purchasing from reputable breeders is recommended to avoid the unethical breeding of Great Danes.

Moreover, Great Danes in your local rescue centers and shelters need new homes. Be sure to check them out if you want quality dogs at a lower price. 

Your Great Dane may be susceptible to various conditions, but there are also different ways to take care of this breed. It is useful to assess and invest in the quality and health of your Great Dane above all.

So, are you getting a Great Dane soon? Do you think this breed is expensive? Let us know your thoughts about the cost of owning a Great Dane in the comments below!

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