Great Dane vs Pomeranian

Working · Giant vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Great Dane is the larger breed at 140–175 lbs (males) vs 3–7 lbs for the Pomeranian.
  • The Pomeranian typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Pomeranian has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Great Dane sheds less.
  • The Great Dane is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitGreat DanePomeranian
Group
WorkingToy
Size
GiantToy
Origin
GermanyGermany
Height (male)
30–32"6–7"
Height (female)
28–30"6–7"
Weight (male)
140–175 lbs3–7 lbs
Weight (female)
110–140 lbs3–7 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–10 years12–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Great Dane

The Great Dane is a friendly, patient, dependable giant — the 'Apollo of dogs' is sweet-natured despite imposing size. Originally from Germany, this giant working breed typically weighs 140–175 lbs and lives 7–10 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, patient, dependable.

About the Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a bold, lively, inquisitive fluffy spitz — descended from sled dogs, now under 10 lbs of pure attitude. Originally from Germany, this toy toy breed typically weighs 3–7 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as bold, lively, inquisitive.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Great Dane health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer

Pomeranian health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Heart disease
  • Dental issues