Great Dane Health Testing Requirements for Stud Dogs

Great Danes are one of the largest dog breeds in the world — and they carry significant inherited cardiac disease, elevated bone cancer risk, and a lifespan of only 7-10 years. Health testing is essential for reducing the burden on this gentle giant.

The Great Dane Club of America (GDCA) participates in the OFA CHIC program.

CHIC Requirements for Great Danes

• OFA Cardiac Evaluation
• OFA Hip Evaluation
• OFA Thyroid Evaluation
• OFA Eye Examination (CAER)

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)

Great Danes have one of the highest DCM prevalences after Dobermans. DCM causes the heart to enlarge and weaken, leading to congestive heart failure and sudden death. Annual echocardiogram is recommended for all breeding Danes.

Hip Evaluation

Hip dysplasia occurs in Great Danes. OFA Good or Excellent is the target. Given the breed's rapid growth, OFA evaluation should occur at 24 months minimum.

Bloat/GDV (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)

Great Danes have the highest documented GDV (bloat) risk of any breed. While no genetic test exists, family history is relevant. Prophylactic stomach tacking (gastropexy) is increasingly recommended by vets for this breed.

Wobbler Syndrome (Cervical Vertebral Instability)

Cervical spondylomyelopathy (Wobbler Syndrome) causes spinal cord compression in the neck leading to a "wobbly" gait and hindlimb weakness. Common in large and giant breeds; no genetic test exists. Select against pedigrees with high Wobbler prevalence.

Osteosarcoma

Great Danes have significantly elevated bone cancer risk. No genetic test exists; longevity data in pedigrees is the only available signal.

Color-Related Considerations

• Harlequin × Harlequin matings produce "double harlequin" (white) puppies that are typically deaf and often have significant health problems. Ethical Dane breeders avoid this pairing.
• Merle genetics are foundational to harlequin production; double merle dogs (MM) have extreme health risks.

Summary

A responsible Great Dane stud dog should have: annual echocardiogram (cardiac evaluation by cardiologist), OFA hip evaluation, OFA thyroid panel, and OFA CAER eye exam. Harlequin × harlequin pairings must be avoided. GDV risk should be disclosed to all puppy buyers and prophylactic gastropexy discussed with the purchasing vet.