Working · Dog
Great Dane
Apollo of dogs; tall, noble, friendly despite imposing size.
Available Great Danes
20 Great Danes
Live data
Great Dane adoption in Europe right now.
19 Great Danes are currently listed for adoption by 19 rescue shelters across 6 countries. Most are in Germany (11), France (3), United Kingdom (2).
3 of them arrived within the last 30 days, so the listings change constantly — if none of the current dogs are the right match, it is worth checking back.
About the breed
Great Dane characteristics.
The Great Dane is a member of the Working group, typically extra_large in size. Like all dogs, individual Great Dane personalities can vary — rescue dogs especially may have unique temperaments shaped by their prior experiences. Getting to know a dog before adopting is always recommended.
As a larger breed, the Great Dane generally needs ample space and regular exercise. A home with a garden or access to open spaces is ideal, though many larger dogs adapt well to apartment living with sufficient daily walks.
Rescue Great Dane dogs may need extra patience during the settling-in period. Many shelters provide behavioural assessments and can advise on whether a specific dog is suited to your household.
Adoption guide
What to expect when adopting a Great Dane.
Adopting a Great Dane from a rescue shelter gives a deserving animal a second chance at happiness. Shelters across Europe care for thousands of dogs, and every adoption makes room for another animal in need.
The adoption process
Most European shelters follow a structured adoption process: an initial application, a meet-and-greet with the animal, a home check (in some countries), and finally the adoption contract.
Health and veterinary care
Reputable shelters vaccinate, microchip, and neuter or spay animals before rehoming. Adoption fees typically cover these veterinary costs.
Settling in at home
The first few weeks are an adjustment period. A quiet space, consistent routine, and patience go a long way. Many rescue dogs blossom within weeks once they feel safe and loved.
Adopting from another country
Cross-border adoption within Europe is common. Your Great Dane will need an EU pet passport, a valid rabies vaccination, and a microchip. Check our dog import guides for country-specific requirements.
Why adopt
Why adopt a Great Dane?
Many people are surprised to find purebred and pedigree animals in rescue shelters. Great Dane dogsend up in shelters for many reasons — changes in owner circumstances, allergies, moving abroad, or simply being found as strays. None of these reasons reflect on the animal's character.
By choosing to adopt rather than buy, you help reduce demand for commercial breeding, give an animal a loving home, and support the vital work that rescue shelters do across Europe.
Questions & answers
Adopting a Great Dane: common questions.
How many Great Danes are available for adoption right now?
There are currently 19 Great Danes listed for adoption on TailHarbor, from 19 rescue shelters across Europe. 3 of them were listed within the last 30 days, so new Great Danes arrive regularly.
Which countries have Great Danes available for adoption?
Great Danes are currently listed in 6 countries. Most are with shelters in Germany (11), France (3), United Kingdom (2) and Austria (1).
Are young or senior Great Danes available?
Yes — current listings include 1 puppy, 3 young (1–3 years), 9 adults and 2 seniors (8+ years). Senior animals often wait longest for a home and many shelters reduce fees for them.
Can I adopt a male or female Great Dane?
Of the Great Danes currently listed, 15 are male and 3 female. You can filter by sex on the search page.
What does adopting a Great Dane from a shelter include?
Reputable European shelters vaccinate, microchip, and neuter or spay animals before rehoming, and the adoption fee typically covers those veterinary costs. Most shelters follow a structured process: an application, a meet-and-greet, sometimes a home check, and an adoption contract.
Can I adopt a Great Dane from another country?
Yes — cross-border adoption within Europe is common. The animal needs an EU pet passport, a valid rabies vaccination, and a microchip; many shelters arrange transport or work with established transport partners.
Find your match
20 Great Dane are waiting for a home right now.
Find Great Dane for adoption →