Daniff

115-125 lbs
23-28"
United States
Great Dane
Mastiff
Mastidane, Great Daniff, English Daniff

The Daniff is a cross between the Great Dane and the Mastiff. It’s no surprise then that this is a giant dog — but one that is definitely a gentle giant. They’re very affectionate with their family and great with children.

However, both their size and the fact that training can sometimes be a slow process, means this crossbreed will benefit from an experienced pet parent that has the time and patience to do this.

In this guide to Daniffs, you’ll discover:

  • Daniff dogs are a mix between two giant dogs, a Great Dane and Mastiff 
  • While their large size may intimidate some, Daniffs are very gentle and affectionate  
  • They’re intelligent — but expect it to take time and patience to train this crossbreed 
  • Their short coat comes in various colors including the unique harlequin and mantle

Daniff breed overview

So, what is a Daniff dog? The Daniff is a cross between two of the largest breeds of dog, the Great Dane and Mastiff. You may also hear them referred to as the Mastidane, Great Daniff and English Daniff. 


If you’ve been looking at Daniff puppies and would like a youngster then you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $900, from a reputable breeder. You may also be able to rescue this crossbreed and provide it with a loving new home. Not only does this give the dog a second chance, it will be significantly cheaper. 

The Daniff dog lives up to around 12 years — giant dogs do tend to have a shorter life expectancy than smaller breeds. However, this is slightly longer than both the Great Dane and Mastiff who have an average lifespan of up to 10 years.  

If you have a Daniff then you’ll want peace of mind that your pup is covered for any health issues. It’s quick and easy to compare the best pet insurance plans from top providers. 


purpose Purpose
Companion, watchdog
history Date of Origin
Unknown
ancestry Ancestry
Great Dane and Mastiff

Daniff Health

Average Size
Male Daniff size stats
Height: 30-35 inches Weight: 115-150 lbs
Female Daniff size stats
Height: 23-28 inches Weight: 115-125 lbs

Daniff Breed History


The Daniff is a relatively new crossbreed — they’re believed to have originated in North America in the late 20th century. 

The Great Dane, which originated in Germany, dates back to around 3000 BC. The English Mastiff and the Irish Wolfhound are believed to be among their ancestors. It’s thought Assyrians traded the giant canines to Greeks and Romans, who then bred them with other dogs. They were once fearsome hunters and known as the Boar Hound as this is what they would hunt. Once their hunting days were over, they were then kept as companions. 

Their name was changed over time and included: English Dogge and Kammerhunde (German for chamber hound.) In Denmark, a slimmer version became known as Grand Danois — which changed to Great Danish Dog, with larger ones being known as Danish Mastiffs.

German breeders refined this dog — and knew it as the Deutsche Dog or German Dog but this eventually became the Great Dane — although not every country uses this name. This dog, which was once an aggressive hunter, is now a calm and loving family pet. 

They were recognized by the American Kennel Club in the Working Group in 1887. 

The Mastiff is an equally giant and ancient breed that is believed to be a descendent of the molosser. In 55 BC Julius Caesar invaded Britain and was impressed by how this breed defended the island. They were then taken back to Rome where they were used to fight in arenas againsts both wild beasts and gladiators.

In Medieval England they were hunters, guardians and war dogs. It’s thought that after World War II only a small number had survived but with the help of US breeders their numbers were built back up again. Today, this breed is much more calm and friendly. They have been recognized by the American Kennel Club, also in the Working Group, since 1885. 

As a mixed breed, the Daniff isn't recognized by the American Kennel Club. 

Daniff Breed Appearance

You’ll already be aware that this is going to be a very large crossbreed. A full grown Daniff dog can reach up to 35 inches tall and weigh a whopping 150 pounds. 

The Daniff most often resembles the Great Dane. However, due to the Mastiff parent breed, they are sometimes rounder and thicker. 

They have a muscular build, with a large head and floppy ears. They’re likely to have the characteristic folds of the Mastiff face and maybe even the jowls, but these won’t be as deep. His gait will be agile, though not quite as elegant as the Great Dane's.

They have short fur that can come in various colors, including: brindle, fawn with a black mask, black, harlequin (white with irregular patches) or mantle (black and white with solid black backs.)

Similar breeds to the Daniff 

Not sure a Daniff is right for you? What about one of the two dogs that form this mixed breed: 


You might also like to consider similar breeds, such as:


Alternatively, you may be interested in other breeds crossed with the Great Dane or Mastiff, including: 


Whether you choose a Daniff, Mastiff or Great Dane you need to look after their health. 

Sign up to a wellness plan which covers their annual shots and boosters then compare the best pet insurance plans so that if your Daniff does suffer from health issues you’ll be covered.

Daniff Breed Maintenance

Daniff dogs are fairly low-maintenance and shed very little. Their smooth coat will need brushing with a pin brush around once a week, and slightly more during shedding season. 

They’ll really only need bathing when required. However, if your Daniff puppy inherits the wrinkles of the Mastiff, you’ll need to use a damp washcloth to wipe between these daily. This is to prevent bacterial infections but you’ll also need to ensure that it’s dry afterwards as if left moist it can promote bacterial growth. 

This dog has big teeth that will need to be cleaned two to three times a week to prevent the build-up of tartar. You’ll also need to check and clean the ears when necessary and trim their nails when required. This is a very large dog, so if you get them used to being groomed when they are a pup, it’ll make it much easier when they are much bigger and heavier.


Daniff health risks 

The Daniff tends to be a healthy crossbreed but, of course, like all dogs, can be prone to some health conditions. The ones you need to be particularly aware of are:



Although the Daniff is quite a healthy crossbreed they are still prone to some health issues. Make sure you are prepared for this by browsing and comparing top pet insurance providers to find the best option for you and your dog. 



Hip Dysplasia 

Hip dysplasia is when the ball and socket hasn’t formed properly so it rubs and grinds instead of gliding smoothly. This can happen to dogs of any size but is most common in larger breeds and can be in one or both of their hips.

It can happen at any age — dogs may get it later in life but, if it’s early onset, this could be from as young as 16 weeks. It will restrict movement as well as being very painful. There are a number of causes but it can develop because of rapid weight gain or obesity. This may mean you need to look at their diet and weight management alongside other treatments such as physiotherapy and surgery.   



Bloat 

Bloat (Gastric Dilatation Volvulus - GDV) is common in large or giant breeds with deep, narrow chests. The Great Dane is among the breeds known to be most at risk, but it’s more likely in older dogs, than younger ones. This is when there’s excess air in the stomach that causes it to dilate and even rotate. Symptoms include breathing rapidly, retching, a fast heart rate and a bloated abdomen. It can progress very quickly and your dog can go into shock. If you suspect this you should get your pup to the vet as soon as possible as it can be life threatening.  



Cancer 

Just like humans, dogs can get cancer and it can be in various parts of their bodies such as breast, skin or bone marrow. Your dog may become more sedentary than usual and you may notice sensitivity and localized swelling as well as changes to their behavior. Many of the symptoms can be quite similar to other more common diseases. So, tests will be performed on your dog. Once they have a diagnosis, treatment may include surgery and chemotherapy. 


Feeding a Daniff — what’s the best diet?

The Daniff dog is a giant breed and so will benefit from high-quality dog food specifically formulated for large and giant breeds, with protein as the main ingredient. 

You should bear in mind that their size means they will eat significantly more than smaller breeds. But, they can easily become obese if they’re overfed or not getting enough exercise, so make sure to keep an eye on this as this can also cause joint issues. 

Daniff puppies should be fed four meals a day. Then, for adults, this can be reduced to three meals per day. As this breed is prone to bloat you can help prevent it by feeding them smaller meals, more often. Likewise, a slow feeder will stop them from eating too quickly and you could elevate it off the floor. Make sure you don’t exercise them straight after they’ve eaten as this can increase the chance of bloat. 

Do you think you are feeding your Daniff the best possible diet that’s both tasty and beneficial to their health? Why not take a look at the advice from our friends at Dog Food Advisor such as the best large breed puppy food and the best large breed dog food. 

At Wag! we’ve compiled a selection of the Best Dog Food for Large Dogs, which may suit your Daniff.

Daniff Temperament


Like both parent breeds, the Daniff is a gentle giant, both loyal and protective. 

They make a wonderful companion — known to be very affectionate with the family and are great with children. Although you should know they’re quite clumsy, enthusiastic and often forget their large size, so Daniffs should always be supervised around youngsters for this reason. 

This crossbreed will also get along well with other animals but socialization — including puppy classes and trips to the park, when they are a youngster — will really help them. Your Daniff will benefit from having every chance to learn how to interact to become a well-behaved and happy dog. 

Despite the fact they’re intelligent and do learn well eventually, they can be quite slow to train. Persistence will definitely pay off with this crossbreed, as will positive reinforcement.

As well as helping with socialization, this pup will really benefit from obedience classes that will help to build their confidence. You’ll need to be patient, firm and consistent with this dog. But, with a dog of this size, it’s very important that they listen to you. 

They’re not an aggressive dog but their loyalty and size can be enough to make them a good watchdog and intimidate potential intruders. 

Daniff Activity Requirements


Despite their giant size, the Daniff is a fairly active dog and will require plenty of exercise to keep them a healthy weight and avoid them chewing or barking excessively. To prevent boredom you should also keep them mentally stimulated with puzzle toys, for example.

They’ll do best in a home with a large yard where they can run around and play. You can take them to the dog park to run and play with other dogs or on a leisurely walk. After this, they’ll usually be happy to snuggle up and cuddle; your Daniff will want to be inside with you at night. Never leave him outdoors all the time.


Daniff Owner Experiences

Harlie
3 Years
7 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Harlie is the sweetest and most loyal dog we’ve had. Very smart. Taught her how to speak and shake in 10 mins with a treat. She’s a big begger, loves food. She can be protective. She’s skiddish around new people, but she’s never bit anyone. She also loves to sleep but is up to play whenever u want. So good with kids too. We also let her outside without a leash, she stays around the house.Very good listener.
3 years ago
Drakko
6 Months
9+ People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Run
Play
Explore the city
One of the best dog breeds i’ve ever had He loves to Sleep, Play, Run, and explore. He’s Such a Loyal and Loving Dog that Loves toys and is very friendly with other dogs. Overall the daniff is an amazing dog breed, but separation anxiety was extremely high from age 6 weeks to 4 months.
3 years, 1 month ago
Mouse
1 Year
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
She’s protective and loyal. Loves a peanut butter treats
6 years, 6 months ago
Miss Crown Victoria (Tori)
7 Weeks
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Road trip
Fetch
Tug-of-war
Running
Walking
This is our 1st Daniff
6 years, 11 months ago
Nigel
9 Months
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Dog Parks
Nigel is a whimsical little boy at times. At times he becomes stubborn as he feels he should be able to ignore my call as of late. Prior to this adolescence stage he was very clingy and literally never left my side. I live on 3 acres and I seldom use a leash with him. He is becoming protective, barking when the doorbell rings, staring down any stranger he meets on our walks. He is fully house trained, I bell-trained him to ring an attached set of jingle bells when he needs to potty. He is bright, funny, smart and a great friend and family member.
6 years, 10 months ago
Crow
3 Years
6 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Walk
Tug
Crow has been an excellent family dog from the very beginning! He is very well mannered, very well trained, wonderful with our four children and guests in our home! Everyone loves him! He is especially a big couch potato but loves being involved in all family activities and knowing where our children are at all times. He can be protective but has never been aggressive and is wonderful with all types of animals! We lived on a farm previously where he co existed with, goats, chickens, cows, cats, rabbits, and other dogs with no problems! My family highly recommends this breed! We love him very much!
6 years, 10 months ago
Clyde
2 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Is by far the smartest and the most loveable dog ever
6 years, 7 months ago
Diesel
5 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Diesel, aka Big D, has spurts of energy but then becomes a spri g couch potato. He love to be touching you and he thinks he is a lap dog. He barks at strangers then runs and hides behind us. He especially loves his 9 year old human girl. He gets nervous if she gets out of his site. We love him to pieces.
6 years, 3 months ago
Doze
3 Years
4 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He is an extremely loveable and cuddly dog who tends to forget that he is a giant but is also very gentle and calm. He can read the atmosphere very well in any situation and is a natural diffuser to anyone even complete strangers! He's always been easy to train and is constantly learning new tricks and cues. His emotions and attitude are very easy to read as he wears his heart on his sleeve. He understands commands in two languages so far and tries to talk to you, but I haven't learned dog ramble yet. On long work days he can be left at home, indoors, alone for up to 8 hours and still be perfectly content and the house be intact. Patience, lots of training and teaching communication as well as inclusion in the family really pay off in having a very sweet, smart, and loyal furry family member and protector.
6 years, 1 month ago
Mack
11 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Was a very big baby. He would grab people by the arm gentle with his head to make you pet him and say hello. Loved to lay on laps. Would give a small bark when it was time for bed. Loved his toys and never ripped them up. Trained very easy and fast. B est dog ever.
6 years, 1 month ago
Lola
3 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Going for long walks
She's a great dog! Very intelligent and loves people!
6 years ago
Summer
6 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Long walks,
snuggling
Boating
Tug
"Daniff" refers to English Mastiff and Great Dane in my case, and she is 160lbs and fit. Very protective and sometimes aggressive toward strangers, but loves to cuddle with her family. *I've heard of many people getting rid of their Daniff as it matured because they couldn't handle it. Think hard before getting one! Dogs are family members, not toys.* Eats 6 cups per day (not 3) on a healthy natural diet. Can be very destructive as puppies if not given daily walks and new challenges.
5 years, 11 months ago
Bella
2 Years
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Eating Snacks
Zoomies
Walk
sleep
Bella is not just my companion she's my service dog. She,thanks to her massive size, helps with balance, Counterbalance and getting up from sitting position. She knew instinctively what my mobility needs were and adjusted herself without too much effort. She loves the dog park where I can sit and she can run for a while then come and people /puppy watch with me. She is calm, smart, loyal and protective but not aggressive. She is about 130lbs, eats around 5-6 cups a day and loves her kitten.
5 years, 8 months ago
Katheryn Mary...aka “Kat”
14 Weeks
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Very happy breeding very trainable.
5 years, 7 months ago
Swisher
16 Months
4 People
Condo
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He's my best friend. Better than a 357 for protection. And such a sweet handsome baby. My wife didn't like the idea of a giant dog at first but she's in love with him now
5 years, 6 months ago
Max
2 Years
6 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
feeding
Hike
Obedience classes
Fetch
Tracking
Herding
Protection Work
He is the best! When he first meets people he is reserved but after 6 mins he is good. He is a protection dog and he does his job well because he can attack m older brother but lick him the net second.
5 years, 6 months ago
nelson
2 Years
4 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
assume he will bring you pleases by grabbing vary gently on your arm and walking you around
5 years ago
Goliath
4 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Goliath was such a sweet resuce. I was scared at first because he was so large. Being a widow he sure has my back!
4 years, 12 months ago
Jewels
8 Years
4 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
She truly is a gentle giant. She loves us as much as we love her.
4 years, 11 months ago
Duke
3 Years
5 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Service dog
The above info is wrong. I have bull daniff and he eats 3 cups 3x a day. Just fyi
4 years, 10 months ago
Dante
5 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Long country walks with lots of off leash running
We rescued him coming up for 1 year ago. Very unpredictable behaviour but getting better now. Still doesn't like other dogs or strangers but lovely in the home with us. Few weight problems, we had him at 60K and looked too thin. Now he's 80 k and vet says too fat.But he is on thyroid meds so that could have a bearing on it.
4 years, 10 months ago
Goose
1 Year
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He's awesome! He's an extra large dog with an extra large heart!
4 years, 9 months ago
Goose
1 Year
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He's awesome! He's an extra large dog with an extra large heart!
4 years, 9 months ago
Hoss
2 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Hoss is a sweet 140 pound "baby". He is a needy dog who desires lots of love & attention ALL day. We feel lucky to be his people! He eats 3 cups/3 times per day (9 total) like Duke's owner stated. 3 cups per day would grossly underfeed any adult mastidane.
4 years, 6 months ago
MAXIMUS
5 Months
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
TUG A WAR, FETCH, SOCCER
PLAY IN THE YARD, TUG A WAR AND FETCH
OURS IS VERY AFFECTIONATE, PLAYFUL, AND GETS ALONG WELL WITH MY SON AND MY BLACK LAB.
4 years, 4 months ago
Titan
2 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Belly rubs
Cuddling
Tug-of-war
Sleeping
Titan is 2.5 years old and weighs 180 lbs. He is a big lover and just wants belly rubs and booty scratches 90% of the time. He loves to be near (aka on top) of us like 24/7. If you don't want a magnet dog, don't get a Daniff! He is slightly territorial and barks at passers-by ever since we moved into the city. Other than that, he is extremely well behaved and loves company, other dogs, and even our cat. He is my best friend and I am so glad we got a Daniff!
3 years, 11 months ago
Atlas
2 Years
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Tug of war
hide and seek
He’s a very sweet affectionate baby, very clingy, very protective .
3 years, 8 months ago
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - New pet
Question

I have a daniff pup and I was wondering if he needs to lay down while eating cause I’ve heard Great Danes need to lay down while eating

Answer
Hello many Great Danes need to eat slow and then not exercise for about 30 minutes after eating to prevent bloat.
3 years, 9 months ago
Book me a walkiee?
Pweeeze!
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