National Great Dane Day – Jun. 12, 2027

National Great Dane Day
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Appreciation
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Every June 12
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National Great Dane Day celebrates the majestic Great Dane every June 12. Known for their imposing size yet gentle nature, these ‘Apollo of Dogs’ make loyal companions. Join us in recognizing their unique charm, learning about their history, and showering your own Dane with extra love.

Want to sponsor National Great Dane Day? Learn how

Expected National Great Dane Day Deals

While we await official 2027 promotions, history shows National Great Dane Day often brings special offers from pet retailers and brands. Look for deals on large-breed dog food from brands like Royal Canin and Hill’s Science Diet, as well as durable toys from KONG and Nylabone. Pet supply stores such as Chewy and PetSmart may offer discounts on beds, crates, and grooming essentials suitable for these majestic dogs. Keep an eye out for local pet boutiques and online shops like Orvis that cater to large breeds. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as June 12 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Great Dane Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalGreatDaneDay. Share photos and videos of your Great Dane, highlighting their gentle nature and impressive size.

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalGreatDaneDay. Film funny moments, training tips, or heartwarming interactions with your ‘gentle giant.’

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalGreatDaneDay. Share stories about your Great Dane’s personality or participate in community polls about favorite breed traits.

Social Media Tips for National Great Dane Day

Individuals

Treat your Great Dane to a new oversized toy or a special long walk. Share a photo of your 'gentle giant' relaxing at home or enjoying their favorite activity.

Creators

Produce content showcasing the unique challenges and joys of owning a Great Dane, from their impressive growth spurts to their affectionate cuddles. Offer tips on training or diet.

Brands

Pet food and accessory brands can run a 'Biggest Dane' photo contest or highlight products designed for large breeds. Partner with Great Dane rescues for a donation drive.

Top Brands for National Great Dane Day

  1. Royal Canin

    Founded in 1968 in France, Royal Canin is a global leader in pet health nutrition. They offer breed-specific formulas, including one tailored to the unique needs of Great Danes, supporting their bone and joint health.

  2. KONG Company

    Established in 1976, KONG is renowned for its durable dog toys designed to withstand even the most powerful chewers. Their extra-large toys are perfect for Great Danes, providing mental stimulation and promoting healthy chewing habits.

  3. Chewy

    Launched in 2011, Chewy is a leading online retailer of pet food and products. They offer a vast selection of large-breed specific items, making it easy for Great Dane owners to find everything from specialized diets to oversized beds.

  4. Orvis

    Founded in 1856, Orvis is a well-known retailer of outdoor gear and high-quality pet products. They offer premium dog beds, collars, and accessories designed for comfort and durability, suitable for the substantial size of a Great Dane.

  5. BARK (BarkBox)

    Founded in 2012, BARK is a company known for its BarkBox subscription service. They offer 'Super Chewer' boxes with durable toys and treats, catering to larger dogs like Great Danes who need more robust playthings.

  6. PetSmart

    Established in 1987, PetSmart is one of the largest specialty pet retailers in North America. They provide a wide range of products and services, including large-breed food, supplies, and grooming services, accommodating Great Danes.

  7. Great Dane Club of America

    Founded in 1889, the Great Dane Club of America (GDCA) is the official AKC parent club for the breed. The GDCA promotes the welfare, breeding, and exhibition of Great Danes, serving as a vital resource for owners and enthusiasts.

National Great Dane Day Hero

H. W. Lacy

H. W. Lacy served as the first president of the Great Dane Club of America, which was founded in 1889. His leadership was crucial in establishing the breed's standards and promoting its recognition within the American Kennel Club. Lacy's dedication helped lay the groundwork for the Great Dane's enduring popularity in the United States.

History of National Great Dane Day

Historically, it is said that Dane is the transferred use of an Anglo-Saxon surname that originated as a topographical name from the Olde English ‘denu,’ which means ‘valley’ to indicate a person who dwelled in a valley. The surname Dean is derived from the same place but a different English dialect transformed it into Dane.

The first time that this surname was spelled was in the 14th Century and was rendered as “Danne.” Alternately, Dane was also used to indicate a Danish person hailing from Denmark, just as Hamlet was referred to as “The Dane.” The Danes are a North Germanic tribe that dates back to ancient times and, around the ninth century, they began invading and settling in England. In fact, in the early 11th century, King Canute ruled both Denmark and England as a single realm for almost 20 years.

As a given name, Dane is relatively modern. It skyrocketed in the United States in the latter half of the 20th Century. This name is primarily a male name and means ‘God Is My Judge’ Or ‘From Denmark.’ In English, it is pronounced, ‘dayn.’ Dane has also a biblical meaning in Hebrew meaning ‘God will judge.’ Moreover, the name Dane has a different spelling that reads “Dayne.”

National Great Dane Day timeline

9th Century
The Name Dates Back to Ancient Times

It is said that this name originates from when the North Germanic tribe begins invading and settling in England.

11th Century
King Canute Rules Denmark

King Canute rules both Denmark and England as a single realm for almost 20 years.

14th Century
The Surname Dane is First Spelled

The first recorded spelling of this surname is rendered as “Danne.”

20th Century
Dane Becomes Popular in The U.S.

The name Dane is relatively modern and it crops up in the United States in the latter half of the 20th Century.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Great Dane Day

Local pet stores can host ‘Great Dane Meet-and-Greets,’ offering discounts on large-breed food and accessories. Grooming salons might provide special ‘spa days’ for these majestic dogs, focusing on coat care and nail trims. Veterinary clinics can offer educational seminars on Great Dane health, focusing on common breed-specific issues like bloat and joint care, and promote preventative health checks.

National Great Dane Day FAQs

When is National Great Dane Day?

In 2027, National Great Dane Day is observed on Saturday, June 12. This annual observance is dedicated to appreciating the ‘Apollo of Dogs’ for their unique charm and loyalty.

How large can Great Danes get?

Known for their impressive stature, Great Danes can reach heights of over 30 inches and weigh well over 100 pounds. Their large size contributes to their majestic appearance, earning them the nickname ‘Apollo of Dogs.’

What is the Great Dane's ranking in popularity?

The Great Dane consistently holds a strong position in the AKC’s annual breed popularity list, often maintaining a spot in the top 20. This consistent popularity highlights their cherished status among American dog owners.

What is the origin of the Great Dane breed?

The Great Dane’s ancestry traces back to Germany, not Denmark, where they were developed centuries ago from powerful hunting dogs. Their regal appearance and calm demeanor quickly made them popular beyond their hunting origins.

National Great Dane Day Activities

  1. Celebrate with a Dane

    If you know someone named Dane, celebrate this day with him. You can spend the day wandering around the city and visiting new places.

  2. Buy a present for someone named Dane

    If you do not know anyone named Dane, you can also still celebrate this day. Search on Facebook or Instagram for a profile with the name Dane and wish him well on this day.

  3. Share a post on social media

    Another idea to celebrate this day is sharing a post on social media telling a story with a Dane. Maybe you have an anecdote about someone named Dane and this will be the perfect day for you to share it.

5 Different Dane´s Nicknames And Their Meaning

  1. Dan

    Its origin is Hebrew and it means ‘Judge;’ or ‘God is my judge.’

  2. Danie

    Its origin is Hebrew and it means ‘from Denmark.’

  3. Deane

    Its origin is English and it means ‘Valley;’ or church official.

  4. Doane

    Its origin is English and it means ‘Low, rolling hills.’

  5. Duane

    Its origin is Scandinavian and it means ‘Dark, swarthy.’

Why We Love National Great Dane Day

  1. The name is versatile

    Dane is not only found as a male name but also as a surname. It's very versatile and quite common.

  2. The name dates back from ancient times

    Although the name Dane became popular in the 20th Century in the United States, its origin dates back to ancient times. This means that this name has a history with it.

  3. Dane is a strong name

    Dane is considered to be a strong name. The most famous person is known as Dane Cook, who is an American stand-up comedian and film actor. His Zodiac sign is Pisces.

National Great Dane Day dates

Year Date Day
2027 June 12 Saturday
2028 June 12 Monday
2029 June 12 Tuesday
2030 June 12 Wednesday
2031 June 12 Thursday