Great Dane, or simply an ambul (American Bulldog in translation from English), is a very ancient and unique dog breed. How to contain them? What to feed? This is what will be discussed in the article.
Description and history of the breed
This breed is often compared with its closest cousin - the English Bulldog and in rare cases can be called the Old English Bulldog. The uniqueness of the representatives of this breed lies in the fact that they absolutely did not change their external characteristics and retained all the features of their English progenitor. These dogs are descended from ancient Assyrian and Egyptian etching dogs, which first appeared in Greece and spread later in Europe. In medieval England, these dogs were particularly popular, as they were involved in bloody bullying with bulls. Later, with the appearance of the breed in the vastness of America, this Old English bulldog turns into a farm dog and copes with the protection of houses and herds, and sometimes even carries various loads and babysits with small children. In a word, very versatile dogs, if not universal ones.
The Great Dane is far from an indoor dog, and its severe appearance speaks of this. They are also called the symbol of the US Marine Corps, and depending on the state, the full name of the breed was extremely different. They began to call the American bulldog only 15 years ago. However, many cynological organizations still do not recognize the Great Dane breed, thereby influencing its popularity in the modern world.
Great Dane: breed description
According to the general standard, this breed has a fairly harmonious, powerful, athletic build, which justifies its purpose. This is primarily a guard dog. American Great Dane have a powerful, muscular body. Depending on gender, the size of the dog may vary. So, males are more stocky than females.
The Great Dane, whose photo you see in the article, has a very massive head and a strong jaw. It is very mobile, despite its large size and can easily be torn down. On average, the height of a male at the withers reaches from 57 to 68 cm, and of females from 54 to 65 cm. As for weight, it also differs depending on gender: males weigh 45-55 kg and females weigh 35-50 kg. These dogs are owners of short hair (1.5 cm), which greatly simplifies the care of them. Their color may vary, but always diluted with white spots.
Today, two varieties of this breed are distinguished:
- classical - these are dogs with a short muzzle and a powerful body;
- standard - these are dogs with an elongated muzzle and a lighter physique.
Character
By nature, this dog is very stubborn and temperamental, she never gives up and, thanks to her extraordinary strength, is used to always winning. In the family, they are very cheerful and sociable and can become a real support.
Many believe that in this breed of dogs watchdog qualities are highly developed, and this can be seen not only from the physique, but also from its watchful and impressive appearance. And it is true, in the character of any American bulldog there is a certain feeling of arrogance towards other four-legged brothers. But in relations with the owner, he can be a great friend, companion and reliable guard, able to withstand heavy physical exertion. Among other things, this breed has a very developed flair, and therefore among them there are many lovers of fox hunting and wild boars.
It is also important to say that they lack a sense of pain as such, they are fearless and seem to lack the instinct of self-preservation. The Great Dane is a very smart dog, as it skillfully disguises its true mood and gives it off as cool-headed, thereby leaving time to think about its tactical step. In a word, it is difficult to outwit or distract him.
Great Dane: contents
The American Bulldog is absolutely not demanding on the conditions of its maintenance. The only condition: do not start it in the same room with another dog of any breed. Ambuli do not tolerate competition and are extremely aggressive when “unexpected cohabitants” appear.
Care and Feeding
What does the Great Dane like? How to feed this dog? Ambul does not need any special care, he is not at all picky. Frequent washing is contraindicated for this breed, it is recommended to do this 2 times a year. You can simply wipe the paws after a walk, and areas such as eyes, ears and nose. Despite the short coat, it is advisable to comb out the amulea once a week. Many representatives cut their claws about once every 2-3 months.
The breeders of this dog do not need to forget about regular physical activity, without which this dog will not be able to fully develop.
Proper development and state of health is facilitated by a balanced diet with supplements, vitamins and traditional nutrition with fresh products such as cereals, meat and dairy products.
Training
Like any other dog, the ambulo needs to be trained in training since childhood. According to dog handlers, the Great Dane needs training like no other dog, given its wayward character. Therefore, without constant monitoring and education can not do. An ambul always acts as a dominant, therefore it is necessary to let him know who is in charge of the house. It is forbidden to let him bite and pull the leash for a walk even at the age of the puppy, so that this does not become a habit. If necessary, you can be punished by strict reprimand and a small shake for the withers. Their manifestations of independence and obstinate character should be suppressed. Especially in relation to other dogs or cats, the Great Dane must understand that you can’t fight without a reason. Observing these simple rules, you can grow a beautiful bulldog.
Puppy selection
The choice of a puppy should be taken quite seriously, and therefore it is worth acquiring it only in a real nursery. In this case, there is no risk of obtaining a cross between this breed, because its thoroughbredness is one of the main aspects in the acquisition, and the slightest cross can affect both the appearance and the character of the animal.
The nursery must give a document certifying the puppy's health status, with the veterinary examinations prescribed in it. It’s better not to take tiny ones, their age should not be less than 1.5-3 months. It is also important to know about the number of puppies in the litter, it should be a maximum of 8 puppies. When choosing, be guided by external signs: silky hair, clean eyes, general reaction and behavior. The healthiest puppy is usually the most active and fun fat man. But often people choose those with whom “invisible contact” develops, and this friendship can not be spilled over the years.