Originally Posted by
Karen
Great Danes are big lovable goofballs - you have to be careful about when they eat, and when they get exercise as they are susceptible to bloat, which can be fatal. So no playtime or running around right after they eat. Things to watch for are hip dysplasia - if you are getting a puppy, ask if the parents' hips have been checked. Be willing to spend time training them when they are still small, or you will have an unruly teenager who can out run you and is stronger than you, and less willing to take direction. They can be a tad stubborn, and are usually quite sure they are "lap dogs," so just be aware of that! They can be alternately sensitive and oblivious, just be persistent and consistent in training.
Saint Bernards - if you can't stand drool, don't get a Saint Bernard, it's that simple. Sweet, sensitive and real "people dogs," you'll hurt them more with yelling than if you actually hit them. There is no sigh deeper than a sulking Saint's sigh. Again, training should begin right away, leash training and not jumping up and crucial for these dogs. Great swimmers - with webbed paws that also are good snowshoes, they tend to like cooler rather than hotter temperatures, and can get heat rash in summer, so be careful, and attentive. Wonderful dogs - IF you can tolerate drool.