Great Dane vs Welsh Terrier

Working · Giant vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Great Dane is the larger breed at 140–175 lbs (males) vs 20 lbs for the Welsh Terrier.
  • The Welsh Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Welsh Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Welsh Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitGreat DaneWelsh Terrier
Group
WorkingTerrier
Size
GiantSmall
Origin
GermanyWales
Height (male)
30–32"15–15.5"
Height (female)
28–30"15–15.5"
Weight (male)
140–175 lbs20 lbs
Weight (female)
110–140 lbs20 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–10 years12–15 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 Low (1/5)
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)High (4/5)
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)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Welsh Terrier

The Welsh Terrier is a spirited, friendly, intelligent Welsh otter and badger hunter — looks like a smaller Airedale. Originally from Wales, this small terrier breed typically weighs 20 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, friendly, intelligent.

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Great Dane health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer

Welsh Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Allergies