Great Dane vs Yorkshire Terrier

Working · Giant vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Great Dane is the larger breed at 140–175 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Yorkshire Terrier.
  • The Yorkshire Terrier typically lives longer (11–15 years).
  • The Yorkshire Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Yorkshire Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitGreat DaneYorkshire Terrier
Group
WorkingToy
Size
GiantToy
Origin
GermanyEngland
Height (male)
30–32"7–8"
Height (female)
28–30"7–8"
Weight (male)
140–175 lbs7 lbs
Weight (female)
110–140 lbs7 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–10 years11–15 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)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
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.
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 Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a feisty, brave, tomboyish toy terrier with a glamorous floor-length silk coat. Originally from England, this toy toy breed typically weighs 7 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, sprightly, tomboyish.

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Great Dane health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer

Yorkshire Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Liver shunt
  • Dental disease