Healthy Danes

Start with Healthy Diet

Being a giant breed, Great Dane puppies grow alarmingly fast and their lifespan is only expected to be 9-12 years. Because of this it is very important that you understand their nutritional needs during the first 2 years of their life. 

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Great Danes will continue to grow for the first 24 months of their life and males are generally known to continue to fill out for additional months. In this time frame it is important that the food you're offering them will support the rapid growth they will go through. 

 

The important thing to take into consideration is the level of Protein, Calcium and Phosphorus in the food. Most puppy food has a high protein content. Protein level is usually directly related to calcium and phosphorus. Higher protein = higher calcium and phosphorus. Lower protein = lower calcium and phosphorus. 

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The recommended levels for your Great Dane baby is:

Protein: 25% or less

Calcium: 1% or less

Phosphorus: 1.6% or less

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These criteria need to be the top consideration for the food you choose to feed your puppy for at least the first 2 years. We suggest continuing to follow these guidelines until the pup is at least 3 years old to ensure they have the proper nutrition for their entire growth period.

 

We are currently feeding Diamond High Energy dogfood to all our dogs young and old.