Impeccable, majestic, irresistible, unusual - there are not enough words to describe in full measure how beautiful the marble dog is. Photos of this Apollo among canines adorn the covers of magazines issued not only for animal lovers. These giants with moon-colored wool are rightfully considered the standard of luxury, evidence of the wealth of their master. Many believe that the unusual color distinguishes this dog in a separate breed. However, dog handlers classify it as "Great Dane Harlequin."
The dog is marble and the color must be appropriate. The main coat must be white (not cream and not blue), interrupted by promiscuous black spots of small size, preferably with blurry, fuzzy edges. If these inclusions are large, the suit of the dog is classified as black. In the case of brown, tiger, blue, other than a deep black spot, the suit is called "Porcelain." If blue or gray blotches go along the main silver background, then such a handsome is called gray-marble. Only absolutely white dogs, albinos, which are also, as a rule, deaf, are discredited due to their color at the exhibitions.
From whom did the Great Dane originate? Bred him, as the name of the breed, in Germany. But the source was “imported” Irish Greyhounds and English mastiffs. Interestingly, at first the word "dog" meant all dogs, regardless of size, color and origin. In English, it remains "dog" = "dog". But in Germany, the word was reserved only for especially large representatives of these animals. Later, among them, English, German, Ulm, hunting and large began to be distinguished. In 1878, the Berlin Committee of Seven decided to combine all of the above breeds into one - Great Dane. And two years later, the same Committee developed a standard.
Over time, the requirements for the breed changed until a uniform FCI standard was adopted. According to it, the Great Dane must have a magnificent physique, proportionality, harmony. His whole appearance should be noble and elegant. In a word, not a dog, but a marble statue of an ancient god. Special requirements are put forward for size, because these dogs are included in the category of "giants". The head of the representative of the breed should not resemble a mastiff - chased lines, a long, narrow skull are required. Ears should also be free of creases.
Marble Great Dane character is peaceful. However, since he was taken out to protect the territory, he is wary of strangers. You must correctly introduce your friends to him, and then there will be no problems. Representatives of this breed relate to their family and, especially, to children with extreme tenderness and love. However, they are fearless, but not aggressive. They can be phlegmatic, but, thanks to their outstanding intelligence, they are easy to learn teams, very obedient.
Marble Great Dane needs a large living space. It is unacceptable to keep such a dog in a cramped Khrushchev apartment. But it should be borne in mind that this is not a yard dog at all, and he will not be able to constantly be in the cold and heat. A country house or an extensive city apartment is exactly what Harlequin needs. The owner of such a dog needs to pay attention to the uniform loads for his pet, otherwise his phlegm can lead to excess weight.