10 Best Great Dane Breeders (2024 Updated)

Many Great Dane breeders refer to these graceful-looking, large dogs as “gentle giants.” Picking the right Great Dane breeder is the first step in having your very own gentle giant.

If that is what you’re looking for, you have come to the right place. Here, you will find a list of places where you can discover Great Dane puppies for sale. This guide offers a comprehensive list of breeders, complete with their info.

Furthermore, we have included some advice on choosing the best breeder and the initial cost of raising Great Dane puppies. Continue reading to learn more. 

10 Best Places to Buy Great Dane Puppies

Great Danes are often referred to as the Apollo of the dog world due to their elegance. A large breed such as the Great Dane demands commitment, responsibility, and dedication from both breeders and prospective owners.

Listed below are ten of the most reputable Great Dane breeders known for producing high-quality Great Dane puppies. Read on to discover more.

1. Daynakin Great Danes, LLC – Washington

Established in 1974, Daynakin Great Danes, LLC, has been dedicated to showing and breeding Great Danes. Their Great Dane puppies are American Kennel Club (AKC) registered purebred fawn and brindle. 

They have participated in numerous dog shows, winning several championship titles in conformation, showmanship, obedience, agility, and therapy dog categories.

By showcasing their dam and sire, they emphasize the temperament, soundness, breed standards, health, and attractiveness of the Great Dane for both companion and dog-show buyers.

Pre-breeding health tests for their parent Danes include x-rays, thyroid, eye, and heart exams. Additional tests are conducted in their other breeding programs.

Daynakin Great Danes, LLC is an AKC Breeder of Merit certificate holder and a member of the Great Dane Club of America (GDCA).

Their local affiliations include the Willamette Valley Great Dane Club, the Western Great Dane Club of BC, the Inland Great Dane Club of the Northwest, and the Mt. Baker Kennel Club. 

Furthermore, they are ranked among the top 40 most respected dog breeders in the US and have been members of the Great Dane Club of Western Washington for the past 30 years.

Daynakin Great Danes LLC Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Daynakin Great Danes, LLC
• Address: 7645 Woodland Rd., Ferndale, 98248-9714 WA United States
• Phone: (425) 388-5685 (Georgia) / (888) 219-7846 (voicemail)
• Email: daynakingreatdanes@gmail.com / daynakin@aol.com 
• Socials: Facebook

2. Ocean Blue Danes – Florida 

Ocean Blue Danes has been one of the most reputable Great Dane breeders in West Palm Beach, Florida, since 1990. They are breeders and exhibitors of high-quality black and blue Great Danes.

Ocean Blue Danes produces healthy and happy Great Dane puppies, focusing on perfecting conformation, temperament, and lifespan.

They actively compete and win in various performance events such as agility, obedience, rally, lure coursing, temperament testing, and more.

Ocean Blue Danes meticulously plans their breedings and performs pre-breeding testing for hips, thyroid, and cardio with verifiable results provided by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).

They also run DNA tests on their Great Dane breeding sires and dams to ensure the pedigree of each Great Dane puppy. Also, their Great Dane puppies are nurtured as family members in their home.

This breeder also holds an AKC Breeder of Merit certificate and is an AKC Club member.

They have been members of the Great Dane Club of Mid-Florida since 2014, the Great Dane Club of America (GDCA) since 2018, and the Palm Beach County Dog Fancier’s Association since 2018.

The founder and current President of the Great Dane Club of Southeast Florida is the owner of Ocean Blue Danes.

Ocean Blue Danes Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Ocean Blue Danes
• Phone: (843) 260-3375
• Email: oceanbluedanes@gmail.com 
• Socials: Facebook and Twitter
• Special Note: They offer stud services for Great Dane dams subject to approval and with documentation on pedigree, stacked photos, health testing, and goals for breeding. 

3. Tered-DBM Great Danes – Arizona

Among the Great Dane breeders devoted to producing quality Great Danes is Tered-DBM Great Danes.

Tered-DBM aims to preserve this elegant breed through cautious and responsible breeding methods. They adhere to strict testing and health guidelines.

Harlequin, mantle, and merle are the Great Dane colors they typically produce.

The application process for purchasing a puppy from them includes a written application, a breeder interview, and a house inspection.

Tered-DBM Great Danes holds an AKC Breeder of Merit certificate and belong to the Great Dane Club of America (GDCA), the Northern California Great Dane Club, and the Monterey Bay Great Dane Club kennel club in Hangtown.

Tered-DBM Great Danes Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Tered-DBM Great Danes
• Email: tereddbmgreatdanes@gmail.com 
• Socials: Facebook and Instagram 
• Special Note: Dogs from Tered-DBM Great Danes won’t have cropped ears and come with limited registration. 

4. MyLady Danes – Connecticut

MyLady Danes, a breeder who takes pride in their Great Dane’s temperament, has been breeding Danes since 1990. However, they only began showing them in 2003, producing two champions in 2002.

Located in Eastern Connecticut, their Dane family is dedicated to producing sound, healthy Great Danes with good temperaments.

Their Great Danes participate in AKC conformation events and are raised in their home rather than in kennels or cages.

Rest assured that the Great Dane puppies they sell come with a health guarantee and a written bill of sale, detailing the responsibilities of both the buyer and the breeder.

Should the buyer be unable to keep the puppy, MyLady Danes is willing to accept the Great Dane puppy back.

They hold memberships in the Great Dane Club of America (GDCA), the Windham County Kennel Club, and the Great Dane Club of Oxford. They also hold the AKC Breeder of Merit certificate and are a member of the AKC.

MyLady Danes Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: MyLady Danes 
• Address: 95 Scotland Rd., Windham, Connecticut, USA 06280
• Phone: (860) 456-0126
• Email: myladydanes@aol.com 
• Socials: Facebook

5. Great Alaskan Danes – Alaska

Breeding and raising a large dog, like the Great Dane, requires ample space for them to play in, making the state of Alaska an ideal fit for these dogs. One breeder in the state that is considered one of the best is Great Alaskan Danes.

Great Alaskan Danes work hard to maintain the standard of the Great Dane. They specialize mainly in the fawn or brindle variants of the breed. 

Their Great Dane puppies and adults are thoroughly assessed based on appearance and structure.

The mental health and development of their Great Dane puppies are prioritized from conception, including careful treatment of the pregnant dam and early stimulation of the puppies.

All dogs have undergone proper health testing and are enrolled in the CHIC program. Their Great Danes live with them as part of the family and not in cages.

They are members of the Kenai Kennel Club, the Mat-Su Great Dane Club, and the Great Dane Club of America (GDCA).

Great Alaskan Danes Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Great Alaskan Danes
• Address: 44698 Sterling Hwy, Soldotna, AK 99669 
• Phone: (907) 252-9756
• Email: maverick@alaskan.com 
• Special Note: Breeders from Great Alaskan Danes studied puppy culture at Avidog Breeder College. 

6. Runway Great Danes – Pennsylvania

Runway Great Danes has been allowing their Great Danes puppies to roam freely on their 10-acre farm, alongside horses and cats, ever since they started their breeding program in 1995.

They showcase their Great Danes in various competitions, primarily focusing on conformation and obedience. Furthermore, they have produced several winners in these categories and others.

The available Great Dane colors from this breeder include harlequin, mantle, and merle. If you wish to see photos of their dogs, you can view them on their website.

Runway Great Danes is affiliated with both the Great Dane Club of America (GDCA) and the Great Dane Club of Western Pennsylvania.

Additionally, Runway Great Danes supports the club’s Great Dane rescue organization and holds the AKC Breeder of Merit certificate.

Runway Great Danes Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Runway Great Danes
• Phone: (724) 544-7394
• Email: runwaygreatdanes@gmail.com 
• Special Note: Their website states that they currently have no planned breedings, but feel free to inquire or contact them through their email.

7. Magic Kingdoms Great Danes – Virginia

Magic Kingdoms Great Danes breeding program focuses on the holistic growth of their dogs.

Harlequin, Mantle, and Merle are the Great Dane colors they breed.

Their Great Danes live with them and have passed the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) health tests.

They do not breed frequently; however, when they do, they consider the health, lifespan, temperament, correct conformation, athleticism, and intelligence of their breeding stock.

Their Great Danes have earned several titles at shows and competitions and have been featured in commercials, movies, and photo shoots.

This Great Dane breeder diligently advises on nutrition, supplement support, exercise regimen, and best vaccination practices to help raise a well-rounded Dane.

To learn more about vaccination guidelines, watch this short video from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA):

They treat their puppy families as partners in raising these majestic-looking Great Danes and provide lifetime breeder assistance.

In terms of affiliations, Magic Kingdoms Great Danes is a member of the Great Dane Club of America (GDCA) and the Great Dane Club of Metro Washington. They also hold breeder and rescue certifications.

Magic Kingdoms Great Danes Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Magic Kingdoms Great Danes
• Phone: (631) 902-7750
• Email: danekrazedecor@gmail.com 
• Socials: Facebook
• Special Note: They are open to various projects involving features and show business for their Great Danes.

8. Foto Danes – Iowa

Foto Danes is a breeder who loves to show off their lovely and regal Great Danes, not only in shows but also in photo shoots.

Foto Danes and the breed have experienced their ups and downs, but these encounters have only motivated and guided Foto Danes to breed exceptional Great Danes.

Their website contains extensive documentation on their accomplishments, as well as tips and tricks for taking care of Great Danes.

Foto Danes is actively involved in various organizations, including the Great Dane Club of America (GDCA), the Great Dane Club (GDC) of Des Moines, the Central Iowa Kennel Club, and the Des Moines Obedience Training Club.

The owner of Foto Danes teaches public obedience classes and is an AKC Canine Good Citizen and AKC Temperament Test Evaluator.

Aside from being a reputable breeder, Foto Danes is also passionate about volunteerism and is connected with various shelters and rescue centers for Great Danes.

Foto Danes Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Foto Danes
• Phone: (641) 792-8076
• Email: bevklingensmith@gmail.com / bev@fotodanes.com 
• Socials: Latest updates can be found on their Facebook page.

9. Northernaire Great Danes – Minnesota

Northernaire Great Danes has been breeding exceptional Great Dane puppies in Central Minnesota for 27 years, supported by the owner’s experience as a veterinary technician.

In terms of conformation, sound health, and temperament, their Great Dane puppies are among the finest.

Before breeding, they perform OFA-certified screenings, whether the dogs are bred for showing or as home companions. They adhere to deworming and vaccination programs.

Further, Northernaire Great Danes socialize their puppies early on. They expect their puppy families to treat their Great Danes like family members and provide them with a comfortable life.

Northernaire Great Danes offers lifetime breeder support and a two-year health guarantee to the buyer of their puppies.

Northernaire Great Danes are members of the Great Dane Club of America (GDCA) and the Heart of Minnesota Great Dane Club, Inc. They also participate in a Great Dane support and rescue organization.

They are certified commercial breeders in the state of Minnesota and holders of the American Kennel Club’s Bred with H.E.A.R.T. badge. They are also awardees of the AKC Breeder of Merit certificate.

Northernaire Great Danes Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Northernaire Great Danes
• Phone: (612) 202-3452
• Email: cbmarni@msn.com 
• Socials: Latest updates from this breeder can be found on their Facebook page

10. Lagarada Great Danes – Colorado

Since 1968, Lagarada Great Danes has been a reputable breeder. Over the years, they have accumulated numerous championships in competitions and shows.

Having taken what they have learned about Great Danes to heart, they have developed a system for their stud services and are particular about the qualities they seek in a Great Dane before breeding.

Both the dam and sire are involved in Lagarada’s breeding program. They undergo OFA-certified thyroid, heart, hip, and OFA (CERF) examinations.

If you wish to avail of their stud service, this breeder will ask you to provide your dog’s complete health documents.

Lagarada Great Danes are registered members of the Great Dane Club of America (GDCA), where they have received numerous honors and accolades, including the 2001 Breeder of the Year.

Lagarada Great Danes Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Lagarada Great Danes 
• Phone: (303) 665-6452
• Email: fran.lagarada@msn.com
• Special Note: Only fawn or brindle breedings are permitted; they do not support any other color breedings carried out using dogs or bitches bought directly from Lagarada.

Other Sources to Find Great Dane Puppies for Sale

The American Kennel Club (AKC) ranks the Great Dane as the 17th most popular dog breed for 2021. Despite its enormous size, this breed’s affectionate nature has won the hearts of many, making them in high demand.

It can sometimes be challenging to obtain puppies right away, particularly from a reputable Great Dane breeder, as some of their puppies are already reserved even before breeding.

If you were not able to secure the perfect puppy from our recommended Great Dane breeders, consider some of the websites below: 

• AKC Marketplace – The AKC Marketplace is one of the most reliable websites to visit if you are looking for AKC-registered Great Dane breeders. When you browse through the Great Dane puppies for sale listings, you’ll be able to see the breeder’s profile, contact information, website, and location.
• Great Dane Club of America (GDCA) – The GDCA is dedicated to serving its members, including Great Dane breeders, owners, and their puppies. They advocate for the best breeding practices, health testing, and research to ensure that Great Dane puppies grow up happy and disease-free.
• Puppy Spot – PuppySpot is a platform that advertises various dog breeds, such as the Great Dane. This site guarantees that their puppies come from reputable breeders, and they have zero tolerance for puppy mills. They also provide the PuppySpot promise as an assurance to their patrons. 
• Greenfield Puppies – Greenfield Puppies is another advertising website for different dog breeds. They are located in Pennsylvania but deliver pets to various states in the US. They have a very specific puppy finder and offer a health guarantee for their patrons.

The websites above are considered reliable sources of Great Dane breeders. However, it never hurts to get to know your breeder of choice and conduct thorough research on them to avoid being scammed.

How Much Does a Great Dane Puppy Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses

The price range for Great Dane puppies for sale is between $1,000 and $2,500, coming from a reputable Great Dane breeder. It can cost $3,000 or more, depending on its pedigree. 

Bringing home the perfect puppy from a Great Dane breeder is only the beginning of an exciting life as a dog owner. That said, as your puppy grows, you will need to consider other expenses as well.

For now, here’s a list of all the initial expenses associated with owning a Great Dane puppy:

On top of the price of your Great Dane puppy, you need an initial budget of $620 to $3,150 to cover the basic needs of your new companion.

There are times when some Great Dane breeders provide puppy care packages that include freebies like leashes and collars, dog food, and even vitamins or medications.

When buying supplies for your pet, it is recommended to invest in items that focus on keeping your pooch healthy, like high-quality dog food, vet visits, vaccinations, deworming, and flea and tick medications.

How Do You Find the Best Great Dane Breeders in Your Area?

With so many Great Dane puppies for sale online, finding the right puppy and breeder to work with can be challenging. Start by narrowing down your options and looking for Great Dane breeders in your area.

To further assist you in your search, here are some tips for finding the ideal Great Dane breeder without having to travel far:

• Join puppies for sale groups on social media. Interacting with individuals in your area’s online Facebook groups or other social media communities is a convenient way to receive recommendations and reviews from dog lovers and breeders.
• Ask your local veterinarian. Seeking assistance from your local veterinarian and asking for their expert advice is a good first step toward connecting with reputable Great Dane breeders in your area.
•  Attend dog shows or events. Participating in local live events in your area allows you to learn from and engage with various breeders and pet owners. It also provides insight into what to look for when acquiring a Great Dane puppy.

There are numerous options and people you can connect with as you search for Great Dane puppies for sale. Having a Great Dane puppy opens up a whole new world for you to discover.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Find the Best Great Dane Dog Breeder?

A quality dog breeder is responsible and experienced. Compatibility with you as a prospective dog owner, client, and partner is also essential.

Check whether the Great Dane breeder is registered with the AKC, the national club, or the local club. Affiliation is a positive sign that they have nothing to hide and are accountable.

Responsible breeders engage with and learn about their potential customers. They are open to communication, encourage kennel visits, and conduct client screening.

Request documentation. Health screenings, authentic pedigree papers, and other documentation should always be readily available.

Conduct your research and take note of any questions or concerns you have. Transparency and trust are crucial for both sides.

How Do You Tell If a Breeder Is a Good Breeder?

You can determine if a breeder is reputable through reviews and feedback from current and past clients. It’s helpful to examine the breeder’s website and social media pages.

Verify if the breeder is a member of any national or local dog breed clubs. Frequent updates and activity on their website and social media platforms also demonstrate their involvement and recognition in their field.

Lastly, the condition of the puppies and their parents can indicate the quality of the breeder. If their dogs are healthy and well-rounded, it is a good sign.

What Questions Should You Ask a Breeder When Buying a Puppy?

Asking your breeder some questions is one of the easiest ways to become informed. The breeder has a responsibility to answer your questions as thoroughly as possible.

Start by inquiring about the puppies’ age, relevant papers, and contact information.

Request to see the puppy’s parents and ask if they underwent health tests to ensure that they are not passing on any genetic issues.

Inquire about the puppies’ nutrition and any medical information you might need once your puppy comes home.

Be curious about the breeder’s experience, such as how long they have been breeding and the best practices they follow.

Finally, when looking for Great Dane puppies for sale, ask the breeder about their screening procedure. Understand that a reputable breeder will not give away one of their puppies immediately.

How Do You Know If a Dog Breeder Is Scamming You?

When searching for a puppy, you may encounter some dog breeders who are out to scam eager dog owners. To avoid them, keep an eye out for red flags.

Seek out multiple communication channels. Besides their website, email, and phone number, check their social media pages and read reviews about them. Scammers often avoid disclosing their contact information.

A scammer may offer ridiculously inexpensive or high-priced puppies. Be cautious if you think you’re getting a deal that’s too tempting to pass up.

Always ask for documentation. If a dog breeder makes statements that they cannot confirm, it is reasonable to be suspicious. Remember, it’s better to be skeptical than sorry in the end.

Final Thoughts

Great Danes are massive pets with equally massive hearts. Many people adore them for their affectionate nature, which makes them ideal family dogs for families with slightly older children.

When searching for Great Dane puppies for sale, look for breeders you can trust and get along with. The list of trustworthy Great Dane breeders in this article is an excellent place to start, but feel free to explore other trusted options.

Before getting a Great Dane, you must first evaluate your budget and plan your costs when looking for a Great Dane puppy. Once you start looking for a breeder, try to steer away from backyard breeders and puppy mills.

So, have you found the breeder you’re looking for? Let us know in the comments below your thoughts about these Great Dane breeders!