What does a Great Dane’s prey drive look like?

Based on the sources, a Great Dane’s prey drive can vary drastically from dog to dog, ranging from a strong tracking instinct to a complete fear of small critters.

The Genetic Hunting Instinct Because Great Danes were historically bred for their size, strength, and speed, their genetics are deeply rooted in hunting and guarding. Some owners caution against the belief that this prey drive has been entirely bred out of them, arguing that you cannot erase thousands of years of genetics in just a couple of centuries. In fact, some owners note that Great Danes can still be excellent hunting and tracking dogs.

The “Goofy Chicken” Reality Despite their hunting roots, many owners report that their individual Danes display very little actual prey drive and act more like “gentle giants” or “chickens” around small animals. Instead of hunting, their reactions to small prey often look like this:

• Fear and Avoidance: Many Danes are actually terrified of harmless critters. Owners report their dogs being afraid of box turtles, frogs, and lizards. One owner noted that their Dane will bark at lizards from inside the house, but if the door is opened, the dog refuses to go outside to chase them and acts as though a dangerous wild animal is being let in. Another owner shared that their Dane refused to go into the backyard simply because she saw a rabbit.

• Playfulness and Heartbreak: Rather than hunting, some Danes just want to play. One owner described their Dane as loving kitties, bunnies, and small dogs and as immediately trying to initiate a game of chase. Rather than exhibiting a killer instinct, the dog is simply “heartbroken” when the small animals run away from him.