Harlequin Great Dane: Info, Pictures, Origin & History

The Great Dane is easily one of the most recognizable breeds in the world. Known for their large size and gentle natures, these dogs make amazing pets for families or anyone with enough room to accommodate their large size and clumsy antics. One of the most popular Great Dane color variations is Harlequin. The Harlequin Great Dane is a large, gorgeous black and white dog that is striking to see and easy to fall in love with.

The Harlequin Great Dane features large black spots on a white coat. The uniqueness of this coat makes them highly sought after and breathtaking to encounter. You’ll notice that Great Danes tower over others with their potential to reach 32 inches high. They have smooth coats and a muscularly elegant appearance. Their heads are rectangular and large with a sizable muzzle that’s deep. Of course, like other Danes, the Harlequin has floppy ears. Their eyes can be gray, blue, or green.

Harlequin Great Dane Characteristics

The Earliest Records of Harlequin Great Danes in History

The exact history of the Great Dane, including the Harlequin, is somewhat mysterious. Likenesses of these dogs have been found on Egyptian artifacts dating back to 3,000 B.C. Of course, this could be a similar breed, but the similarities are undeniable. The documented origins of these dogs are in Germany, around 400 years ago. They were believed to be bred from Irish Wolfhounds and English Mastiffs for boar hunting.

How Harlequin Great Danes Gained Popularity

By the 1600s, German noblemen became taken with these dogs. At this time they were brought into homes as pets and protectors instead of only being used as hunters. It wasn’t until 1878 that the idea of naming this large breed came into play. The plan was to distinguish the Great Dane from the English Mastiff. The original name was Deutsche Dogge, which means German Mastiff.

Eventually, German breeders began working on breeding out the dogs' hunting aggression, making them much gentler. Thanks to this work, we have the refined Great Danes we love today. As for the Harlequin coloration, it is difficult to determine when it gained popularity.

Formal Recognition of Harlequin Great Danes

While no one is exactly sure, it is believed that the Great Dane made their way to the United States in the 19th century. In 1887, the Great Dane was formally recognized by the AKC. Harlequin is one of the accepted variations.

Other formal recognitions include the formation of the Great Dane Club of America in 1889, recognition by the United Kennel Club in 1932, and recognition in 1961 by the Federation Cylonogique.

Top 5 Unique Facts About Harlequin Great Danes

1. No Link to Denmark

Despite being named Great Danes, they have no connection to Denmark. As previously mentioned, the Great Dane originated in Germany and was bred for boar hunting.

2. Dalmatian Mix-Ups

Yes, Harlequin Great Danes have been misidentified as Dalmatians. This is because Great Dane puppies are born with more spots. As a Harlequin Great Dane grows, the spots change a bit and appear more patchy.

3. The Mismarked Danes

While a Harlequin Great Dane features black spots on a white coat, there can be mismarked Harlequins. This happens when the spots are slightly off-color. The colors can be gray, blue, and even fawn. They are often are referred to as brindle harlequins, merlequins, fawn harlequins, and blue harlequins.

4. Harlequin Coats Are Rare

Breeding a Harlequin Great Dane is difficult. Most breeders prefer to breed a Harlequin with a Mantle Great Dane. Mantle Great Danes are white and have what appears to be a black blanket covering their body. Breeding two Harlequins is dangerous. The puppies can be born with a double Harlequin or double Merle gene. This can lead to stillbirths, blindness, and deafness.

5. Slower Growth Spurts

Oddly enough, Harlequin Great Danes have their growth spurt later in life than those with other coat colors. Instead of having their growth spurt at 3 to 5 months old, they usually wait until they are around 11 months.

Does a Harlequin Great Dane Make a Good Pet?

Yes, the Harlequin Great Dane makes an amazing pet and does well with families, including those with small children, if socialized early. They are quite gentle and loving to their people. The biggest issue with these gentle giants is their size. Great Danes can easily knock things over or bump into the furniture if their environment is cramped. You should keep the size of your living space in mind if you plan on bringing a Harlequin Great Dane home.

Another thing to consider if you want a Harlequin Great Dane is the expense. They are rare and can cost quite a bit when working with a reputable breeder. You’ll also need lots of food, treats, toys, and a large dog bed.

Conclusion

The Harlequin Great Dane is a color variation of the largest dog in the world. These gorgeous dogs are known as gentle giants who love spending time with their families. If you’ve dreamed of having a Harlequin Great Dane, be prepared for a substantial adoption fee if you find a reputable breeder.

However, once a Harlequin Great Dane is a member of your family, there is no going back. They will quickly become your best friend and protector of your family.

• See Also: 10 Beautiful Great Dane Colors (With Pictures & Descriptions)

Featured Image Credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock