Great Danes are beautiful dogs, no matter their coloring. They’re large, magnificent creatures that stand tall and regal. Then, when you get to know them, you realize they are just loveable and goofy pups with massive bodies that love to play! So, don’t let their size fool you into thinking they are intimidating.
Instead, look at their many coat colors and decide which one you love best. Then, find a reputable breeder or specialized rescue near you to find your new pup. Whether you intend to train them for competition shows or only obedience training to get along with the family and neighbors, you’re sure to love these gentle giants. The GDCA, or Great Dane Club of America, will be an excellent resource as you learn more about them.
The 10 Most Beautiful Great Dane Colors
1. Black
Image By: mkzdillon, Shutterstock
Great Danes are already beautiful with a regal stance and calm temperament, but with an all-black coat, they seem just a bit nobler. Black Great Danes are the rarest of the breed. Some Black Danes have a small patch of white on the front of their chest, which is allowed by AKC standards, but those that are entirely black are the hardest to find.
Because of their rarity, they are the most prized, not only among dog enthusiasts training them for shows but also by families who seek a gentle protector and playmate.
2. Mantle
Image Credit: mkzdillon, Shutterstock
Mantle Great Danes are also called “black and white” Danes. The coloring could be any pattern of the two colors as long as it isn’t spotted, which would be considered Harlequin. However, the AKC standard is a bit stricter regarding where the white and black should appear on the dog’s coat.
For example, the skull should be black, and the muzzle should be white. There is an ideal mantle coat as well as acceptable variations. This is one of the most straightforward patterns with the least variation allowed.
3. Blue
Image Credit: mtajmr, Pixabay
The stunning steel blue coat of the Blue Great Dane is instantly recognizable. Not only will you notice this dog’s size, but its color is just as magnificent. Many Blues will have a lighter eye color than other standard coat colors. For AKC championship qualification, a Blue Great Dane must be solid-colored with no white on its chest. This is a common feature, which is fine for Danes enjoying life outside of competitions.
4. Brindle
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The brindle pattern is typical in many dog breeds, but especially some of the larger ones, like Boxers and Greyhounds. It is lovely in Great Danes because there is so much of this unique coloring to see! The most prominent colors are black and brown, but many dogs also show gray.
Their coats can be anywhere from bright with well-defined stripes to more muted coloring that looks blended. These stunning Brindle Great Danes show up often in competition but are just as comfortable sharing your couch.
5. Fawn
Image Credit: Dmussman, Shutterstock
Fawns are, by far, the most common Great Danes. However, just because they are common doesn’t mean they are any less beautiful. You may recognize a popular and timeless cartoon character with this classic brown coloring, the much-loved Scooby Doo, although Fawn Great Danes rarely have any other colors, like spots, along their body.
While Scooby Doo may not have been able to compete in dog shows, he and many other Fawn Great Danes don’t have to work hard to win our hearts.
6. Harlequin
Image Credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock
Harlequin Great Danes are primarily white with patches of another color. These patches can be black or grey or have a merle pattern. Some dogs have a combination of these colors and patterns in their spots, and the spots are rarely symmetrical. Every Harlequin Dane looks just as unique as their personality.
To see patches of merle, the dog must have at least one merle parent. The ideal pattern shows primarily white on the neck, shoulders, and front legs, with more coloring toward the back and hind legs. However, there are other acceptable variations as well. This is another rare Great Dane color because it is challenging to breed.
7. Merle
Image Credit: Spontaneolicious, Shutterstock
We’ve mentioned the merle pattern several times, so what exactly is it? Merle Great Danes have a primarily grey coat with spots of black. Other than fawns, these are typical Danes and no less gorgeous. Unfortunately, merles are susceptible to more health problems than some other Danes, and you should research both the breed and the breeder before adopting your new Dane. Many Merle Great Danes are the result of trying to breed for Harlequin Danes, but a pup with both merle genes will most likely be white.
8. White
Image Credit: TMArt, Shutterstock
If Merle Great Danes are susceptible to health problems and White Great Danes require two merle genes, it’s safe to say that they are the most prone to health issues. They are beautiful, with their size and striking all-white coats, but because of their breeding and continued health problems, they are not officially recognized by the AKC and most likely won’t be.
Danes with coat colors that aren’t recognized are called “off-color.” While they can’t compete in shows, many pet owners welcome them into their homes. White Danes are often unexpected when breeding for other coat colors.
9. Chocolate
Image Credit: belu gheorghe, Shutterstock
The AKC does not officially recognize Brown Great Danes, and many breeders will stop their breeding program when they notice a litter with at least one chocolate pup if they exclusively breed show dogs. However, they’re beautiful dogs, and many enjoy their regal appearance as family pets.
Chocolate Danes show up in shelters and rescues often when a puppy is adopted and returned when the owners cannot adequately care for it. If you’re looking for a Dane that is just as sweet as its name, find a chocolate one! You may find a Chocolate Brindle or Chocolate Merle as well.
10. Mantle Merle
Image Credit: Oleg Hmelnits, Shutterstock
A relative newcomer to the list of colors recognized by the AKC, the Mantle Merle Great Dane may have a solid merle appearance or a bit of white on their chest or toes.
They could also have the ideal mantle pattern, but instead of solid black, you’d see the beautiful merle pattern. The merle could have patches of black throughout. Because of this look’s growing popularity and acceptance by the GDCA, the AKC may soon include it as part of the breed standard.
Conclusion
Have you fallen in love with the Great Dane yet? The hardest decision now is picking your new Dane’s color. Research this fantastic, giant dog breed and visit a few of them so you can get to know their unique personality and see these colors in person. You might just meet your new fur-ever friend when you do.
Nicole has loved animals of all sizes her whole life so it's no wonder she has dedicated her career to helping them through what she loves best: learning, writing, and sharing knowledge with others. She’s the proud mom of two dogs, a cat, and a human. With a degree in Education and 15+ years of writing experience, Nicole wants to help pet parents and pets around the planet to live happy, safe, and healthy lives.
For years, people have debated whether Pit Bulls are dangerous dogs or devoted and loyal companions. Media coverage, along with misidentification, has generated...
The pet food world is ever-changing, and more products are flooding the market every day. What is growing in popularity in the world of treats? Why, lickable ones, of course. You can spread the treats on a lick mat, stuff...
Disasters are unpredictable, and the safety of our beloved canine companions is paramount during these critical times. Thankfully, preparedness goes a long way in ensuring the well-being of our furry friends. So, if you’re wondering what to put in a...
Gingerbread is a holiday staple many people enjoy for the flavor and nostalgia. While dogs can eat certain holiday foods safely, it’s not recommended for dogs to eat gingerbread or gingerbread cookies. Small amounts of ginger may be okay for...
If you’re a dog owner and a fan of flavorful spices, you might be wondering whether it’s safe to share your love for cardamom with your furry friend. Cardamom is a popular spice used in various cuisines worldwide and is...
Review Summary Black Gold Explorer is a pet food company that focuses exclusively on kibble for dogs. This company has shown a commitment for over 20 years to producing foods for sporting dogs to maintain their health, longevity, and energy...
Organ meats from animals that are raised properly and safely, such as farmed chickens, turkeys, ducks, cows, and sheep, can be a healthy and nutrient-rich treat for your dog. However, while dogs can technically eat organ meat, it’s crucial that...
Great Pyrenees are wonderful and gentle dogs that quickly become beloved family members. These unique dogs also require a special diet to promote their well-being and prolong their lifespan. The first and most obvious factor to consider is their size....
Over the last decade or so, grain-free and gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular for humans, and by extension, that popularity has trickled down into canine diets, too. However, as with the human population, provided the balance of nutrients is...
The 10 Most Beautiful Great Dane Colors
