The Great Dane was not always the "gentle giant" as it is known today.  It started out as a very aggressive fighter and hunter.  The purpose of theses ferocious animals was to take down wild boar, deer and even wolves.  There are disputes on where the Great Dane actually originated from.  However, there are accounts, in 1558 A.D., of a hybrid Great Dane in Denmark being bred with Mastiff's from England to produce a tall heavy dog.  This is probably where the dog gets its name, being from these hybrid lines in Denmark.  These dogs were not to kill prey on a hunt but to hold the animal down until the hunter arrived to finally take the kill.  Some sources say that a breed similar to the Great Dane can be traced back to Ancient Egyptian times!

Fortunately, through years of excellent breeding programs and dedicated fanciers the breed has transformed into a friendly and loving companion.

The first Great Dane on record to enter the United States, in the late 1800's, was a dog named "Prince" who was owned by Francis Butler of New York.

By 1889 breeders began making an honest attempt to improve the dogs' temperament and the first American breed club was formed.  This club is known today as the Great Dane club of America.