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The Great Dane is a gentle giant whose impressive size turns every trip into a major logistical challenge. At 70 to 90 cm at the withers and up to 80 kg, finding a suitable vehicle, welcoming accommodation, and accessible venues requires meticulous preparation. Despite these constraints, its gentleness and natural calm make it a pleasant companion once on site. The Great Dane does not need to run for kilometers; a nice gentle walk in a natural setting is enough for its happiness.
Atouts en voyage
- Calm and gentle temperament despite its size; it does not pull on the leash and remains composed
- Low intense exercise needs: moderate walks suit it perfectly
- Natural sociability with humans and other animals in public places
- Majestic presence that attracts sympathy and often facilitates social interactions
Defis a anticiper
- Extraordinary size making air travel impossible and trains very uncomfortable
- Very few accommodations accept a 50-80 kg dog; the search is long and frustrating
- Health fragility inherent to giant breeds: gastric torsion, heart problems, sensitive joints
Profil voyage
En images
Se deplacer avec votre Dane
Traveling by high-speed train with a Great Dane is technically possible but extremely complicated in practice. Its size far exceeds the space available between seats, and it must wear a muzzle throughout the journey. Book first class if possible for more space, and travel strictly during off-peak hours to avoid conflicts with other passengers.
A large vehicle is essential: minivan, SUV, or converted van are the only realistic options for transporting a Great Dane comfortably. The entire rear seat or an XXL trunk with protection is necessary for it to stretch out fully. Install an access ramp as its fragile joints cannot withstand repeated jumping in and out of vehicles.
Air travel is practically impossible for a Great Dane as no standard IATA crate can accommodate a dog of this size, and custom crates exceed the maximum dimensions accepted in airline cargo holds. Even the most tolerant airlines generally refuse transport crates exceeding 300 cm in combined dimensions. For long-distance travel, car or train remain the only viable alternatives.
Sante en voyage
Risques specifiques
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus, a frequent life-threatening emergency in giant breeds, triggered by stress or a meal followed by activity
- Congenital heart problems such as dilated cardiomyopathy that can manifest under stress
- Early osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia aggravated by long journeys and uneven terrain
Precautions
Locate an emergency veterinary clinic near your destination before departure; gastric torsion can kill within hours. Split meals into three portions and enforce absolute rest for two hours after each meal.
Tolerance chaleur
The Great Dane tolerates heat very poorly due to its enormous body mass that accumulates temperature. Never travel to southern France in midsummer with a Dane and keep it in air-conditioned or shaded spaces with water available at all times.
Pharmacie de voyage
- Emergency vet number saved in your phone to react in minutes in case of torsion
- Veterinary NSAID anti-inflammatory for joint pain flare-ups
- Gastric protector prescribed by the vet to reduce dilatation risks
- Large-size first aid kit with extra-wide cohesive bandages
Equipement indispensable
Telescopic vehicle access ramp
Its fragile joints and enormous weight forbid repeated jumping to get in the car without risk of serious injury
Extra-large high-density mattress
A Great Dane lying down measures nearly two meters; it needs a bed to match for comfortable sleeping
Raised slow-feeder bowl
Significantly reduces gastric torsion risk by slowing intake and limiting air swallowing
Custom giant-size muzzle
Standard muzzles do not fit its massive skull; a custom muzzle is essential for trains and public places
Reinforced shock-absorbing leash
Its 50 to 80 kg weight requires a robust leash with shock absorber to handle sudden pulls without wrist injury
Ou partir avec votre Dane ?
The Great Dane thrives in large rural properties, forests, and open natural spaces where its size is not an obstacle. Choose cottages with large fenced gardens and avoid crowded seaside destinations in summer.
Le saviez-vous ?
The record for the world's tallest dog is held by a Great Dane named Zeus who measured 111.8 cm at the withers, taller than a donkey
Despite its intimidating size, the Great Dane is nicknamed the gentle giant and ranks among the gentlest and most affectionate breeds with children
An adult Great Dane eats between one and two kilos of food per day, representing a significant food budget while traveling
Questions frequentes
Can you really travel with a Great Dane?
Yes, but it requires rigorous organization. The car is the only truly practical transport, and you must plan ahead for suitable accommodations. Many Great Dane owners favor camping in a converted van to fully control their stay conditions.
How do you find accommodation for a 70 kg dog?
Contact rural cottage owners directly and explain the situation transparently. Campsites and holiday homes with fenced gardens are generally more welcoming than hotels for giant breeds.
Is the Great Dane classified as a restricted breed in France?
No, the Great Dane is not classified as Category 1 or 2 in France. It is therefore subject to no specific regulatory requirements beyond general rules applicable to all dogs over 6 kg on public transport.
What car do you need to transport a Great Dane?
A spacious vehicle such as an SUV, minivan, or station wagon with a long flat trunk is essential. Some owners opt for a converted van or utility vehicle with a dedicated canine living space in the back.
Can the Great Dane handle long hikes?
No, the Great Dane is not an endurance dog. Walks of 45 minutes to one hour on flat terrain are more than sufficient. Its joints and heart are not designed for prolonged exertion, especially in warm weather.
