Daniff
Designer Mixed Breed - Great Dane x Mastiff - Gentle Giant
100-160 lbsWeight
27-33 inHeight
7-10 yrsLifespan
Fawn, Brindle, Black, HarlequinColors
Designer Mixed Breed - Great Dane x Mastiff - Gentle Giant
The Daniff is a designer crossbreed that blends two distinct dogs: the Great Dane, the towering 'gentle giant', and the Mastiff, an ancient, massive guardian. Breeders combine the two hoping to pair the Great Dane's best traits — imposing size paired with a sweet temperament — with the Mastiff's watchful guardian instinct, all in one companion.
As a first-generation mix, the Daniff is not a standardized breed, so puppies — even littermates — can vary in size, coat, and personality depending on which parent they take after. Most are very large dogs, typically weighing around the range shown above. The best way to picture an individual Daniff is to get to know both parent breeds.
As a first-generation mix, the Daniff is not a standardized breed, so puppies — even littermates — can vary in size, coat, and personality depending on which parent they take after. Most are very large dogs, typically weighing around the range shown above. The best way to picture an individual Daniff is to get to know both parent breeds.
Daniffs tend to be gentle, affectionate, and dignified — and, from the Mastiff side, calm, loyal, and protective. From its Great Dane parent it often inherits an imposing size paired with a sweet temperament, while the Mastiff contributes a watchful guardian instinct. The blend usually makes an affectionate, family-oriented companion, but because temperament can lean either way, early socialization and consistent, positive handling are important to bring out the best of both parents.
A moderately active mix, the Daniff does well with around 45–60 minutes of daily exercise — a couple of walks plus some play. It enjoys activity but is also happy to relax at home once its needs are met.
The coat is low-maintenance — a weekly brush and occasional bath are usually enough. Stay consistent with nail trims, ear checks, and dental care, which matter for dogs of every coat type.
The Daniff responds best to patient, consistent, reward-based training and early socialization. Short, upbeat sessions work better than repetition or heavy correction. Establishing clear, kind boundaries early helps it grow into a well-adjusted companion.
Mixed-breed dogs often enjoy some 'hybrid vigor,' but the Daniff can still inherit any of the health conditions common to its parent breeds. Owners should be aware of bloat (gastric torsion), heart conditions, hip dysplasia, hip and elbow dysplasia, and bloat. Buying from a breeder who health-tests both the Great Dane and the Mastiff parents, keeping your dog at a healthy weight, and staying current with routine veterinary care are the best ways to support a long, healthy life.
| Stage | Daily Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy | 1-2.5 cups | 3 meals/day |
| Adult | 1.5-3 cups | 2 meals/day |
| Senior | Reduce 10-20% | Joint support |
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Puppy | $1,000-$3,000 |
| Monthly Food | $100-$200 |
| Annual Vet | $700-$1,800 |
Daniffs can weigh over 160 lbs and stand 33 inches tall - some individuals are taller than dining tables.
Despite intimidating size, Daniffs are typically gentle and patient - two of the sweetest giant breeds combined into one lovable companion.