Great Dane vs Samoyed
Working · Giant vs Working · Medium
Great DaneGiant
A friendly, patient, dependable giant — the 'Apollo of dogs' is sweet-natured despite imposing size.
Weight: 140–175 lbsLifespan: 7–10 years
SamoyedMedium
An adaptable, friendly, gentle smiling Siberian — bred by nomadic Samoyed people to herd reindeer.
Weight: 45–65 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Quick take
- • Great Dane is the larger breed at 140–175 lbs (males) vs 45–65 lbs for the Samoyed.
- • The Samoyed typically lives longer (12–14 years).
- • The Samoyed has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Great Dane sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Great Dane | Samoyed |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Working |
Size | Giant | Medium |
Origin | Germany | Russia |
Height (male) | 30–32" | 21–23.5" |
Height (female) | 28–30" | 19–21" |
Weight (male) | 140–175 lbs | 45–65 lbs |
Weight (female) | 110–140 lbs | 35–50 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 7–10 years | 12–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | short | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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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 Samoyed
The Samoyed is an adaptable, friendly, gentle smiling Siberian — bred by nomadic Samoyed people to herd reindeer. Originally from Russia, this medium working breed typically weighs 45–65 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as adaptable, friendly, gentle.
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Great Dane health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Bloat
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer
Samoyed health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Diabetes
- • Eye disorders
- • Heart problems