Some of the biggest disconnects I see with giant breed owners in the puppy stage is:
1. They forget that they are just a baby because they get so big so quick. They are still experiencing the world for the first time!
2. These big pups aren’t being stubborn, bad or breaking anything maliciously. They have no idea how big they are or how much damage they can do.
3. A lot of people don’t seem to want to crate this breed, but it’s important to teach them boundaries early on.
4. Most owners are reactive instead of proactive. They don’t bring them in for training until they’re “too big to handle” and we have to break down learned behaviors that could have been prevented.
I’m so happy that Dallas’s owners want to have him trained basics & manners at this age & he will be such a good boy ❤️ #greatdane #puppy #placetraining #greatdanepuppy #dogtraining
Training a giant breed puppy like a Great Dane requires patience and awareness that these gentle giants are still babies despite their impressive size. From my own experience training large breeds, I’ve found that consistency is key. For example, establishing crate training early on not only provides a safe space for the puppy but also helps build important boundaries. Many owners find it hard to crate large puppies, but it’s a worthwhile investment that prevents many behavioral issues. It’s also important to remember that these puppies explore the world with no sense of how big or strong they are. Accidental damage or rough play isn’t stubbornness but simply a lack of impulse control that needs to be gently guided with positive reinforcement. Introducing basic commands and manners, such as "sit," "stay," and "place," as early as puppy preschool helps reinforce good habits before unwanted behaviors set in. One crucial lesson I learned is the advantage of being proactive rather than reactive. Waiting until your puppy is "too big to handle" often means dealing with ingrained behaviors that are much harder to change. Early training sessions, even short ones, can make a huge difference in your puppy’s development. Remember, socialization during the first few months, including puppy classes, safe playdates, and exposure to new environments, contributes greatly to a well-adjusted adult dog. Lastly, patience and positivity cannot be overstated. Giant breed puppies need gentle correction combined with lots of praise. Celebrate their small wins, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. With the right approach, your Great Dane puppy can grow up to be a calm, obedient, and loving companion.















































