They’ve Waited Long Enough—9 Great Danes Hoping for Their Forever
They’re tall, majestic, and often called gentle giants, but these 9 Great Danes haven’t had it easy. Each one has faced heartbreak, abandonment, or uncertainty, yet they continue to wait patiently for a place to call home. Despite their size, their hearts are even bigger, filled with love and loyalty just waiting to be shared.
From shy seniors to playful pups, these Danes have one thing in common: they’re all hoping someone will finally see them, choose them, and never let them go. They’ve waited long enough, maybe it’s time they found the forever family they’ve always deserved.
1. Lyra: 2-year-old Stunning & Affectionate Great Dane
Meet Lyra, a stunning and affectionate Great Dane who was found as a stray alongside her two puppies. After spending months surviving on the streets, Lyra found a temporary safe place—but her foster time is almost up, and she urgently needs a new home to avoid being moved into boarding.
Lyra is gentle, calm, and absolutely adores being petted—especially those beloved ear scratches. She’s potty trained, has great kennel manners, and takes treats like a lady. Lyra is dog-friendly and kid-friendly, but not a fan of cats, so a feline-free home is a must. Learn More
2. Hydra: Giant Cudle-Bug
Meet Hydra, a loving, playful, and larger-than-life Great Dane who’s ready to find her forever family! This gentle giant adores humans of all sizes, gets along great with dogs and even cats, and is always up for snuggles, playtime, and adventures. Learn More
3. Crusher: 3-year-old Playful Great Dane
Born in March 2021 and currently fostered in Mission, TX (with nationwide transport available), Crusher is a young Great Dane with a giant heart and a goofy soul. He’s the kind of dog who charms everyone he meets—whether it’s with his calm, loyal nature or his hilarious yard zoomies with a favorite yellow ball. Though he doesn’t like being alone or crated, Crusher thrives in a lively home filled with love, playmates, and attention.
Crusher is equal parts gentle giant and joyful goofball, and he’s ready to bring love, loyalty, and laughter to the right home. If you have the space, the heart, and a few toys to spare, Crusher might just be your perfect match. Apply today and let this big-hearted Dane complete your family. Learn More
4. Harley: Harlequin Stunner
This Harlequin coated Great Dane female was brought into the shelter’s night drop nearly a week before Rocky comes across her. This girl unfortunately came in not only emaciated, but infested with ticks. The person who brought her into the night drop also brought in two other dogs, however those other two dogs have thankfully been adopted. She’s the only one left at the shelter back in isolation because she hasn’t been able to get a health check yet due to her growling and nervous behavior. When the person brought the dogs in, they apparently stated the 3 were running together near a school, but it seemed suspicious because it was an odd trio – a Great Dane, Basset Hound and Bulldog. The person took the time to put them in separate kennels, and the situation generally seemed odd to where it’s possible that this person was the owner. Learn More
5. Alice: Affectionate 8-year-old Great Dane
Alice is a sweet, affectionate 8-year-old Great Dane mix with the heart of a puppy and the soul of a best friend. She adjusted quickly to her foster home and has proven to be house-trained, crate-trained, and incredibly loyal. True to her breed, she’s a leaner—happiest when she’s snuggling against you or half-lounging in your lap (yes, all 104 pounds of her!). She prefers not to be crated for long hours and can be vocal when left alone, so she’s looking for a home without shared walls.
Alice might be 8, but don’t let that fool you—she still has so much love to give. Her soft eyes, slow tail wags, and constant cuddles are a reminder that some of the best companions come with a few gray hairs. If you think you’re the one to make Alice’s golden years her best yet, apply today at https://pethavenmn.org/adopt/adoptable-dogs/dog-adoption-application. Learn More
6. Hootie: 2-year-old Gentle Giant
Meet Hootie, a stunning 2.5-year-old Great Dane tipping the scales at 106 pounds of love and loyalty. Currently at a shelter and dreaming of a soft couch (or maybe the whole couch), Hootie is looking for either a foster or a forever home in the DC area. She’s sweet, sensitive, and searching for someone who sees beyond her size to the soft soul underneath.
Hootie has so much love to give and is ready to start her new life—whether that begins with a foster or forever home. She just needs someone to open their heart (and maybe upgrade their dog bed size). Could that be you? Apply to meet Hootie and help her find the love and comfort she’s been waiting for. Learn More
7. Beefcake: 1-year-old Goofball
Beefcake is a fun-loving, affectionate Great Dane with a big personality to match his big size! At just one year old, he’s still figuring out how to navigate the world (and his giant paws). He adores his humans and will lean into you for love, but he’s still working on his manners.
Because Beefcake is deaf, he relies on visual cues for training and communication. He’s currently working with a professional dog trainer to build confidence, improve leash manners, and address some territorial behaviors. Learn More
8. Marley: Young & Energetic Snuggler
At just one year old, Marley is a big-hearted Great Dane with an even bigger personality. This St. Louis sweetheart is a playful, affectionate boy who loves everyone—dogs, cats, kids, and new friends alike. His excitement for life is contagious, and he’s always ready for a good time (or a good snuggle).
Marley has one particularly adorable quirk—his version of “kisses” involves gently nibbling your chin to show affection. If you’re looking for a loyal, loving, and endlessly joyful companion, Marley is ready to bring warmth and happiness into your home. Learn More
9. King: True Velcro Dane
Meet King, a majestic Great Dane with a heart as big as his paws. This gentle giant is searching for an experienced foster or adoptive home where he can continue to grow in confidence and shower his new family with love.
King is sweet, loving, and ready to find a family who will cherish him forever. Could you be the one to give this loyal giant the home he deserves? Learn More
