8 Must-Try Products For Great Danes (And Giant Breeds)

5 Must-Have Products for Great Dane Lovers

I blame Cynthia Rylant and her Henry & Mudge series... because ever since I was five, I wanted a big, big dog. So, when I got my own house after getting married, I was glad my husband was on the same page. 

Two weeks after moving into our new house, Henry, our mastiff puppy (He wouldn't go with the name Mudge, so I tricked him into Henry) came into our lives and taught us a lot about having a giant breed dog. Like that when a vet says medicine goes by weight, your wallet is in trouble. And that what feels like an adequately sized vehicle soon won't. And also...that giant breeds have giant hearts that will bond with you in ways you could never expect.

When Henry passed a few years ago, I knew that another big dog was in store for us. Once you have a giant breed, I swear you won't go back. So Edmund, our Great Dane, entered our lives...and although we were older and somewhat wiser this time, we still faced a lot of challenges with the giant breed.

Over the years of owning giant dogs, I've learned that it's often hard to find things suited for their size--the market dictates most businesses focus on smaller dogs. However, through my dog mom obsession, I've found a lot of items that have helped make owning a big dog easier, and I wanted to share some of these finds.

1. Zymox Otic Ear Drops from Chewy

When you have a giant dog with floppy ears, ear infections become par for the course. These drops are a godsend, though, because they truly work miracles. When Edmund's ears start to get a little red or funky, a few drops and he's not only leaving them be, but the redness is gone! Of course, check with your vet before using, but I keep these on hand at all times and have cut my vet trips down to almost never for ear infections. Click here for the link (I'm not getting anything from this product if you buy!)

2. Fur Haven Muddy Mat

This is another Chewy find, and OMG it's a lifesaver. Come spring, I found myself constantly dealing with mud in my house from giant breed dogs. This shammy material rug comes in numerous sizes, is washable, and really works! It's like magic. Just have your dog walk across it...and it sucks up the mud from their feet. No need to wipe their paws!

A dog trainer recommended this to me, and now I tell everyone about it. You can find it here (I don't get any money from your purchase on this one, either. Just love it!)

I will say for some reason, Edmund and our cats like to snuggle on it...which is kind of gross...but whatever works!

3. Great Dane Coat Club

Great Danes, despite their size, are always cold. And finding Great Dane sized coats and sweaters? Impossible.

I found the Great Dane Coat Club on Facebook, though, and now have several of their coats and Snoods for Edmund...and the quality is amazing! The coats aren't cheap, but they hold up and are made to grow with your dog. They can be adjusted to fit your dog perfectly.

The sales happen sporadically, so you have to keep an eye on the page. You can find the group here.

4. FuzzYard Leashes

I find these leashes all the time at T.J. Maxx...and they are the best! They feature a padding on the leash as well as a handle near the hook...which makes them perfect for walking a Great Dane! When I need to get more control, I just grab the handle. I usually can snag these for $4.99 or so at T.J. Maxx, so keep an eye out!

5. BuckleDown Collars

These collars are made from seatbelts and come in the best designs! I have a 90s cartoons, buffalo plaid, and Scooby Doo collar in these. They are durable and thick, making them great for a big dog! I usually find them on Amazon by searching Buckle Down and get the thickest size. 

6. BarkBox

I'm obsessed with Bark Box ...and so is Edmund! This fun monthly subscription lets you customize the amount of treats and toys you get. The treats are high quality, and you can let them know your dog's allergies so you get treats they can consume. They've also been adding XL add-on toy options perfect for giant breeds. Edmund LOVES getting mail once a month, and I love the quality of the toys!

The other great thing about Bark Box is their customer service. It's unmatched. When our box was late, they sent us a free one and extra gifts. When Henry passed, they took off the charge for his final box and sent us a sweet card. They're always going above and beyond for their customers and truly care about dogs.

You can use this link to get 2x the goodies in your first order for FREE. Edmund will get BarkBox credit if you use his link, so he thanks you in advance!

7. Pup Rug from Paw

A few years ago, Edmund won a Pup Rug in a contest...and he's so obsessed, I bought a second one! These thinner "beds" offer support for your dog with the memory foam like feel, come with a washable cover, and often are on sale, making them a great option for your living room. I love the colors, too, and they really do look like a cute fur rug. They come in all different sizes, so they're great for your little dogs too.

I don't get any $$ for your purchase, but you can check them out at paw.com

8. Sniffspot

Full disclosure: Edmund did not enjoy this...because he hates grass and the outdoors. BUT I think a lot of dogs will enjoy this feature. It's an app that lets you find private "dog parks" to rent out for an hour just for your dog. Ours was a local kennel who has a huge 2 acre fenced in yard. The sniff spots have all sorts of features depending on the location and let you get your dog some playtime without the risks of a dog park.

Just look up Sniff Spot and find some options in your area. Prissy Great Danes who hate the outdoors not guaranteed to have a fun time (He was ready to leave in ten minutes and get Starbucks).