Finding the perfect companion for a Great Dane can be a fun and rewarding experience. The right dog breed can complement your Great Dane’s temperament and lifestyle, making for a harmonious household. Not all dog breeds can match the unique needs of a Great Dane, so it’s important to make an informed choice.

In our article, we’ll explore the top 10 dog breeds that make excellent companions for Great Danes. We’ll consider factors such as temperament, energy levels, and compatibility to ensure a happy and balanced dynamic between the two dogs.

1. Newfoundland

Newfoundland dog at home with christmas tree

When we think of gentle giants, Newfoundland stands out. These dogs are not only large but also incredibly friendly and patient. Their calm demeanor matches well with the Great Dane’s gentle nature.

Newfoundlands are highly sociable, making them excellent companions. They enjoy being part of a family and are known for their loyalty. This trait ensures they bond quickly with other pets in the household.

Both Great Danes and Newfoundlands have a similar activity level. They appreciate regular, moderate exercise. A shared love for water can also be a fun activity for both breeds to enjoy together.

These breeds are also similar in size, which helps in creating balanced interactions. Newfoundlands can weigh between 100-150 pounds and stand up to 28 inches tall.

We find that the Newfoundland’s friendly, calm, and sociable nature complements the Great Dane perfectly, ensuring harmonious companionship.

2. Greyhound

Greyhound Dog
Greyhound dog for a walk in the forest in spring

Greyhounds can be excellent companions for Great Danes. Both breeds are tall and athletic, which makes them a good match. They can play together without one overpowering the other.

Greyhounds have a calm and gentle nature. This temperament complements the often easygoing personality of Great Danes. They enjoy lounging and relaxing together, making greyhounds a great fit for our homes.

Greyhounds are known for their speed. This could add some excitement to playtimes. While Great Danes may not be as fast, they appreciate the company of a lively partner to keep them active.

3. Leonberger

Leonberger

The Leonberger is a great companion for our Great Dane due to its similar size and gentle nature. Both breeds are large and calm, making them compatible in energy levels and play styles.

Leonberger’s sociable and friendly temperament fits well with the Great Dane’s laid-back personality. This breed is trainable and enjoys being part of a family, making them a suitable match for our Great Dane.

4. Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard dog in the sunshine.
Image: Envato Elements

Saint Bernards make excellent companions for Great Danes. They have a calm temperament that balances well with the Great Dane’s gentle nature. Both breeds are large, and having dogs of similar size can be beneficial. It ensures they play and interact safely.

Saint Bernards also share similar exercise and grooming needs. This makes managing both dogs easier for us. Their friendly and affectionate nature complements the Great Dane’s social personality, making them a great match.

5. Borzoi

Portrate of borzoi dog
Portrate of borzoi dog

The Borzoi is an elegant and athletic breed that makes a great companion for Great Danes.

Borzoi dogs are known for their gentle and calm demeanor. They are friendly and generally get along well with other pets and animals. Their calm nature makes them a good match for Great Danes, who also tend to be gentle giants.

Borzoi dogs are similar in size to Great Danes, though they are a bit smaller. They typically weigh between 55 to 105 pounds and stand 26 to 32 inches tall. This size compatibility can help create a balanced and harmonious household.

In terms of energy levels, Borzoi dogs have bursts of high energy but also enjoy relaxing. This matches well with the Great Dane’s need for both exercise and rest. Both breeds enjoy stretching their legs during walks or playtime in the yard.

6. Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhounds are known for their towering height and gentle nature. They can be as tall as 34-45 inches and are often taller than Great Danes. This makes them a good match in terms of size.

Both Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes have calm and friendly temperaments. They enjoy being around people and other dogs, which can help create a peaceful home environment.

Despite their large size, Irish Wolfhounds are known for being affectionate and loyal. They bond closely with their families, making them great companions for our Great Danes.

These dogs also share similar exercise needs. While they need space to move around, they are not overly energetic. Regular walks and play sessions can keep both breeds happy and healthy.

7. Mastiff

English Mastiff dog
English Mastiff dog

Mastiffs make excellent companions for Great Danes. Both breeds share similar sizes and temperaments, making them a good match. Mastiffs are known for their loyalty and protective nature, which can complement the friendly and sociable demeanor of Great Danes.

Living together, the Mastiff’s calm disposition can balance the Great Dane’s playful energy. Mastiffs also enjoy human company and can add to a harmonious household environment.

Combining these gentle giants helps create a loving and balanced family dynamic. They both thrive on attention and enjoy forming strong bonds with their human friends.

8. Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees Dog.

We find that the Great Pyrenees make excellent companions for Great Danes. Both breeds are large and share similar temperaments, making them well-suited to coexist.

Great Pyrenees are gentle giants. They are known for their calm and patient nature. Like Great Danes, they are loyal and protective, ensuring a very harmonious living environment.

Due to their size and strength, Great Pyrenees need plenty of space to roam. This aligns well with the needs of Great Danes, as both breeds enjoy outdoor activities and exercise.

Both breeds are also good with children and other pets. Their friendly demeanor helps them get along well, reducing the chance of conflicts.

9. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dog Berner Sennenhund Play Outdoor In Green Spr
Image: Envato Elements

Bernese Mountain Dogs make excellent companions for Great Danes. These dogs are strong and loyal, just like our gentle giants. They share a love for outdoor activities and can enjoy hikes and walks together.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are calm and patient. They get along well with other large dogs, making them a good match. Their gentle nature helps them bond easily with Great Danes.

Both breeds are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities. Together, they can create a loving and harmonious environment in our homes.

10. Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is a great companion for Great Danes. Both breeds share a similar love for outdoor activities. They have a strong pack mentality, which helps them get along well.

Alaskan Malamutes are known for their strength and endurance. They are playful and affectionate, adding a friendly dynamic to the household. Their high energy levels match well with Great Danes.

Malamutes are also very loyal dogs. They enjoy spending time with their human and canine families alike. When paired with a Great Dane, they form a harmonious and active duo.