We have kept GDs and IWHs for a couple of decades. Boris is our first foray into the mastiff world. Here are my experiences/observations (which mostly concur with what DD and others have said).
I think the Harl X Harl breeding issue has already been well covered.
In terms of life-span, most of ours lived to 10 -11, and one to almost 13. Our last Dane died at 7, but he had DM -- a disabling and progressive (genetic)disease with no cure. When we have looked for a breeder, the longevity of the blood-lines is an area we always investigated. Danes are quite high energy, compared to our mastiff, and need a lot of exercise. We've had Brindles and Harls, and have found the Harls to be the real fun-loving goof-ball clowns of the Dane world.
Most of our Danes have been very people and dog oriented. Dylan, our last Dane, was somehow able to charm any dog who aggressively approached him. However, whilst far more laid back than Boris, ours could also be counted on to defend us if someone 'suspicious' approached. They were wonderful with our kids when they were little, and would gently herd them away if they approached the street, and stand between them and any stranger who approached.
We found our Danes did have a bit of stubbornness at times, but were very intelligent dogs -- exceptionally easy to train, and eager to please. Ours were also fairly independent compared to Boris -- who is definitely a Velcro dog. Our Danes were happy being with us, but were also content to nap/play in a different part of the house. If Boris had his way, he would be sitting on my lap (what portion of himself he could fit on it) squashing me 24 hrs a day. Like mastiffs, Danes' feelings are very easily hurt.
Danes are the most susceptible of all breeds to bloat, so it is vital that you recognise the early symptoms. We have had two who bloated -- both of which we caught quickly and rushed to the e-vet. They both survived, but one required emergency surgery and it was touch and go for 24 hrs.The final bill for surgery, medications, and three days in canine ICU was $ 5,000.00. If neutered, they also seem quite susceptible to osteosarcoma and other cancers. We don't neuter, and have never had a dog who developed cancer, but I estimate that it is the second or third cause of death on my GD forum -- certainly amongst the top five. As puppies they are prone to Wobblers syndrome and HOD (Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy, a blood infection in puppies that can occur during rapid growth stages, and they tend to develop spinal issues later in life. Sometimes these can be managed medically, or with a combination of medical treatment and acupuncture. However, when we lived in England, one of our Danes needed spinal surgery to fuse vertebrae and insert a stabilising rod. Final cost: 6,000 Pounds sterling (money not weight, lol) which at the time was almost $10,000 USD. Hence, be prepared for some potentially hefty veterinary bills.
One other caution I would offer (although you sound like your heart is already captured by this Dane puppy) is that the incidence of genetic, physical and temperament issues seems to be a growing problem amongst Danes -- at least in the US. Dylan suddenly developed both Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and fear aggression when he was around two years old. He became potentially dangerous to anyone that was not family or that he had not met whilst he was a puppy. He had to be managed very carefully the rest of his life to keep everyone safe. When we were in England, on Dane forums there, there were few incidents of biting. On the forum here, I don't think it would be an exaggeration to say there was at least one serious bite each week. Several forum members have had to put their Danes to sleep because of uncontrollable aggression.
This was the primary reason we decided to move into English Mastiffs (and we are completely in love with the breed --planning on adding our second, soon). However, Danes can be absolutely wonderful dogs, so best of luck with your pup!
! I have a white boxer, Luigi (both parents were fawn but both carried the recessive gene). All pups were fawn but him and one other brother. His brother was deaf, but Luigi's eyesight and hearing are fine. He is a fantastic dog, really great with people, children, other animals. Very smart and pretty laid back. Love him to death. When we first took him to our vet, he was concerned as white boxers are known to have a number of issues. Thankfully (thus far) we've had little to no problems in his 5yrs. Just be mindful of t
he sun as they do burn!
