The Great Dane Bullmastiff Mix is a unique and fascinating breed that combines the loyalty of a Bullmastiff with the gentle giant qualities of a Great Dane.
This mix can grow to be quite large, with adults typically weighing between 100 and 130 pounds.
Great Dane Bullmastiff Mixes are generally friendly and outgoing, making them excellent family pets.
They require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy, so be prepared to take them on daily walks or runs.
Breed Characteristics
The Great Dane Bullmastiff mix is a large and muscular breed with a broad chest. They weigh between 80-120 kg and are 65-75 cm tall. Their short, dense coat is usually black, brown or brindle in color.
They have a gentle and loving nature, making them a great family dog. This mix is patient and good with children, but may be protective of their family and bark at strangers.
The Great Dane Bullmastiff mix is an active dog that needs a lot of exercise. They enjoy going for walks, running, and playing catch. A fenced yard is essential for this breed, as they are known to run around unsupervised.
Here are the key breed characteristics of the Great Dane Bullmastiff mix:
Health and Care
The Great Dane Bullmastiff Mix, also known as the Daniff, is a large breed dog that requires regular veterinary checkups to stay healthy.
Regular veterinary checkups are crucial to detect any health issues early on, and your vet will create a care routine for your dog.
Hip dysplasia and joint issues are common in Daniffs, so keeping your pup at a healthy weight is essential to avoid putting too much stress on the joints.
Daily thirty minute walks and playing with a variety of toys will help to keep your dog happy and healthy.
Daniffs can be prone to bloat, a life-threatening condition, so it's essential to monitor their eating habits and ensure they don't overeat.
Here are some common health issues that Daniffs may suffer from:
- Bloat
- Hip/Elbow dysplasia
- Cancer
- Heart issues
To help with its development, the Daniff should receive high-quality dog food that is specifically geared to large pedigree dogs, and eat foods that are indicated for its age.
Nail trims are recommended to be done once or twice per month, and if the owner can't trim them by themselves, a groomer or veterinarian can help with this.
The Daniff's big, floppy ears require daily checks to ensure there isn't any debris building up, and cleaning them as recommended by your vet is essential.
Size and Appearance
The Great Dane Bullmastiff mix is a large and muscular dog with a broad chest. They typically weigh between 80-120 kg and stand 65-75 cm tall.
Males tend to be on the larger side, weighing between 50-90 kg, while females weigh between 45-59 kg. The coat is usually short and dense, coming in black, brown, or brindle colors.
Here's a quick size comparison between males and females:
Their short, dense coat requires regular grooming to keep it looking good, but they don't shed much.
Size
The Daniff is a large dog breed, and its size can vary depending on the parents.
Most Daniffs range in height from 27 to 33 inches.
Males tend to be on the larger side, while females can be slightly smaller.
Daniffs can weigh anywhere from 115 pounds to about 190 pounds.
The Great Dane Bullmastiff mix, also known as the Daniff, is a large and muscular dog breed.
They weigh between 80-120 kg and are 65-75 cm tall.
This dog has a short, dense coat and a broad chest.
Daniffs come in various sizes, but here's a breakdown of their typical height and weight:
These sizes are typical for the Great Dane Bullmastiff mix, but keep in mind that individual dogs can vary.
Coat Color and Grooming
The Daniff's coat color is quite versatile, coming in a range of colors and patterns, including fawn, black and white, brindle, merle, and harlequin.
Their short coat is a great advantage, as it sheds minimally and requires only occasional brushing, usually once or twice a week.
Daniffs are not the best choice for those with allergies, as they do shed and have a short coat that requires regular grooming.
In fact, their short coat means they can't tolerate very cold weather and may need a large doggy jacket in winter.
However, their short coat also means they don't drool as much as their parents, which is a definite plus for dog owners.
Brushing is usually the only grooming task required, but baths will still be necessary from time to time.
Personality and Temperament
The great Dane bullmastiff mix, affectionately known as the Daniff, is a gentle giant with a loving and placid disposition. They are very friendly and can adapt to live in a household with a large family or a one-person home.
Their large size may be off-putting at first, but Daniffs will quickly warm up to you and want to cuddle. They are protective of their families and make excellent guard dogs.
The Daniff's prey drive is low, but they will bark to alert their family of a stranger arriving at the house. They may be a bit apprehensive at first, but will warm up to new people once they realize they are not a threat.
Training a Daniff puppy can be a challenge due to their independent nature. They are intelligent, but may be a bit stubborn, so it's essential to start training as soon as possible and use positive reinforcement.
A well-trained Daniff is crucial, especially considering their large size, which can make them difficult to control as an adult. Consistent socialization from puppy age on is also vital to ensure they are compatible with children and other pets.
Their pronounced protective instinct makes them an excellent guard dog, but they can also be very territorial. Caution is necessary when interacting with children, as their massive size can be a concern.
Related reading: Great Dane Dog Training
Training and Exercise
Training your Daniff requires early socialization and consistent training to ensure it responds to instructions. Early training is key, especially since both the Mastiff and Great Dane are averagely intelligent breeds.
It's essential to start training early, even if you're not experienced in dog training, as this will help the Daniff acclimate to household rules and become comfortable around people and other pets. If you're struggling, consider hiring a professional dog trainer.
The Daniff's exercise needs are relatively low, requiring only 30 minutes of walking per day, divided into two sessions. Mixing in some mental exercise will also keep your dog engaged.
To avoid over-exercising your Daniff, be mindful of its susceptibility to skeletal or muscle injuries, and avoid over-exertion when climbing stairs.
Training
Training is crucial for a Daniff, as both its parent breeds, Mastiff and Great Dane, are known to be stubborn and require early obedience training. Early training is essential to ensure the Daniff responds to instructions.
A different take: Bullmastiff Training
The Daniff's intelligence is often debated, but it's believed to be averagely intelligent, making training a bit more challenging. However, with consistent effort, your Daniff can learn to obey commands.
To ensure the Daniff's safety, it's essential to keep the puppy in a secure area where it can't be injured. Close supervision is necessary when interacting with kids.
Early socialization is vital to help the Daniff acclimate to household rules and feel comfortable around people and other pets. This process starts with early training, which lays the foundation for a well-behaved adult dog.
If you're struggling to train your Daniff, consider hiring a professional dog trainer to help you manage the process.
Exercise
The exercise needs of your Daniff are relatively low, but still important for their overall health and happiness. They need around 30 minutes of walking per day, which is a great opportunity to spend quality time with your furry friend.
While the Daniff's parents were originally hunting dogs, they've evolved into oversized lap dogs, and their exercise needs have changed accordingly. They still need regular exercise, but it's more about keeping them happy and healthy than about hunting prowess.
To avoid skeletal or muscle injuries, it's essential to monitor your Daniff's exercise levels, especially when they're climbing stairs. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration and intensity.
If your Daniff gets bored during training, don't worry – it's just their nature. They can get sleepy quickly, but that's not a sign of laziness – it's just their breed's tendency to take naps.
Here's a brief exercise plan for your Daniff:
- Duration: 30 minutes per session, twice a day
- Frequency: Daily
- Intensity: Moderate
- Activities: Walking, mental stimulation
Family and Living Situation
The Great Dane Bullmastiff mix is a gentle giant that thrives in a family environment. They are natural companions and love being around their owners.
They require a spacious living situation with plenty of room to roam, ideally a house with a large yard.
Family dynamics play a significant role in their socialization, and early exposure to children and other pets is crucial for their development.
Their calm nature makes them an excellent choice for families with smaller children, but it's essential to supervise interactions closely.
A Great Dane Bullmastiff mix can adapt to apartment living if provided with regular exercise and mental stimulation.
However, their large size and shedding coat mean they're not the best fit for those with limited space or a preference for low-maintenance pets.
Regular grooming sessions can help manage their shedding, but it's a commitment that needs to be considered.
In terms of living arrangements, a Great Dane Bullmastiff mix is best suited for a household with a dedicated owner who can provide the necessary attention and care.
Finding and Rescuing
Finding a great Dane bullmastiff mix can be a bit tricky, but it's definitely doable. You may be able to find one in a shelter or rescue near you.
If you're having trouble finding a breed-specific rescue for a Daniff, you can try looking into Great Dane or English Mastiff breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes as well.
Rescues that cater to large or giant breeds might also be able to help, so don't be afraid to reach out to them. Here are some rescues you can try:
- Gentle Giants
- Great Dane Rescue
- Mastiffs To Mutts Rescue, Inc.
Alternatively, you can try finding a breeder who performs health tests on both parents before breeding to avoid severe health issues. Look for breeders who raise dogs in the home and not in an outdoor setting where socialization is tricky.
A unique perspective: Great Dane Dog Health Problems
Similar Breeds and Mixes
The Great Dane Bullmastiff mix, also known as the Daniff, has several similar breeds and mixes that you might find interesting.
If you're looking for hybrid breed dogs similar to the Daniff, consider the American Bandogge, Mastador, or Pit Bull x Mastiff mix.
These breeds are big, jowly, and require an owner who's ready to commit to a lifetime of positive training, just like the Daniff.
Similar Breeds and Mixes
If you're looking for a dog similar to the Daniff, you have plenty of options to consider.
The American Bandogge, Mastador, and Pit Bull x Mastiff mix are all hybrid breeds that share similarities with the Daniff.
One of the purebred options is the Boerboel, a giant breed that requires a lot of space and exercise.
Bullmastiffs are another option, known for their large size and jowly faces.
The Cane Corso is a similar breed that's also big and sturdy.
The Neapolitan Mastiff is another giant breed that's similar to the Daniff in terms of size and appearance.
All of these breeds require a lot of training and attention from their owners.
See what others are reading: Great Mixed Breed Dogs
More Mixes
If you're looking for more breeds like the Daniff, you've got options. The American Bandogge, Mastador, and Pit Bull x Mastiff mix are all great alternatives.
The Mastador is a mix of a Mastiff and a Labrador Retriever, and it's known for being loyal and gentle. It's a great choice for families with kids.
The Pit Bull x Mastiff mix is another great option, but it's essential to remember that it's a hybrid breed and may have some health issues. You'll want to make sure you're getting it from a reputable breeder.
The Boxdane, Great Bernard, and Great Wolfhound are also Great Dane mixes that you might consider. They're all big dogs that require a lot of space and exercise.
The Boerboel, Bullmastiff, Cane Corso, and Neapolitan Mastiff are all purebred breeds that are similar to the Daniff in size and temperament. They're all big, jowly breeds that need positive training and a lot of love.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Daniff puppies cost?
Daniff puppies typically cost between $600 to $1,500 from reputable breeders, with prices varying depending on the breeder and location. If you're interested in bringing a Daniff home, be prepared for a potentially higher cost due to their relative rarity.
Are Great Dane Mastiff mix good dogs?
Yes, Great Dane Mastiff mixes are known for being gentle and affectionate family dogs, making them a great choice for families with children. They're a loving and loyal companion, but their large size requires careful consideration and attention.
How big is a Mastiff cross Great Dane?
A Mastiff cross Great Dane, also known as a Daniff, typically weighs between 115-190 pounds. This large breed can make a wonderful companion for experienced dog owners.
What are the pros and cons of a Daniff?
The Italian Daniff is a loyal and loving companion for owners with ample space, excelling as a gentle giant with children and other animals. However, its large size makes it unsuitable for small homes or apartments.
Sources
- Great Dane Rescue (greatdanerescueinc.com)
- Gentle Giants (gentlegiantsrescue.com)
- Daniff:Bullmastiff and Great Dane Mix - Dog Breed Pictures (dogbible.com)
- Daniff (Great Dane and Mastiff Mix): Breed Facts & ... (petside.com)
- English mastiff (akc.org)
- Great Dane (akc.org)
- Great Dane Mixes: 20 Very Large And Popular Crossbreeds (caninejournal.com)
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