Last Updated on June 19, 2024 by Fumipets
Mom ‘Worried’ How Great Dane Would React to Newborn Had Nothing to Fear
Welcoming a new baby into the family is a joyous occasion, but for pet owners, it can also come with concerns. One mom from Grand Rapids, Michigan, shared her heartwarming experience of introducing her Great Dane to her newborn son, and the story has captivated the internet.
The Gentle Giant: Greta the Great Dane
Great Danes: Majestic Yet Gentle
Great Danes are known for their imposing size, with males standing up to 32 inches tall and weighing around 175 pounds. Despite their giant stature, these dogs are often referred to as gentle giants due to their affectionate and friendly nature.
Meet Greta and Her Family
Katy Vanden Heuvel, a resident of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and her husband welcomed their son, Vince, in March 2024. They also share their home with Greta, a 5-year-old Great Dane who thinks she’s a lap dog. Before Vince’s arrival, Katy was slightly worried about Greta’s size and whether she might unintentionally snuggle too hard with her baby brother.
The Heartwarming Introduction
Initial Concerns and Overcoming Them
Despite her concerns, all of Katy’s fears vanished as soon as they brought Vince home. Greta, who was incredibly excited to meet Vince, demonstrated remarkable gentleness. The heartwarming moment of their introduction was captured in a video that Katy shared on TikTok (@greta_the_great_), where it quickly went viral, amassing over 290,000 views and more than 21,000 likes.
A Bond Like No Other
In the video, Greta’s excitement is palpable as her tail wags uncontrollably. However, she instinctively knows to be gentle with Vince. “They have been inseparable ever since,” said Katy. Greta always ensures that Vince is in her sight, and Vince is equally mesmerized by his new furry sibling.
Great Danes and Their Affectionate Nature
Traits of the Great Dane
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Great Danes are known for their affectionate nature and are especially good with children. Their size makes them excellent guardians, but their personality is what truly sets them apart. They are calm, patient, and incredibly loving towards their family members.
Greta’s Special Bond with Vince
Katy shared that Greta has always been a calm dog, but she has shown exceptional patience around Vince. She knows to walk slowly and stay calm when Vince is nearby. Greta has even adapted her playtime, understanding that she can only play rough when Vince is not around.
Viral Sensation and Community Support
The TikTok Phenomenon
The video of Greta and Vince has touched the hearts of many, with numerous Great Dane owners sharing their own experiences in the comments. Katy has been overwhelmed by the love and support from the community. One user commented, “That’s her baby now,” while another said, “You have nothing to fear with these beautiful giants. Enjoy watching them grow together.”
Praise for Greta
The video has received over 150 comments, all praising Greta for her gentle and protective nature. Many users shared similar stories of their Great Danes being patient and loving with children, reinforcing the breed’s reputation as gentle giants.
Why Great Danes Make Great Family Pets
Affectionate and Loyal Companions
Great Danes are not just pets; they are family members. Their loyalty and affection make them ideal companions, especially for families with children. Their calm demeanor and protective instincts provide a sense of security while their loving nature brings joy to the household.
Adapting to Family Life
Great Danes are known to be adaptable and can easily fit into family life. They are gentle with children and can be protective without being aggressive. Their intelligence and trainability make them responsive to commands, which is crucial in ensuring they are safe around small children.
Greta and Vince: A Growing Bond
Everyday Life with Greta and Vince
Since the day Vince came home, Greta has taken on the role of the best big sister. She is always by Vince’s side, watching over him and showering him with affection. Katy and her husband feel incredibly lucky to witness the special bond forming between their son and their gentle giant.
Hope for the Future
Great Danes tend to have a shorter lifespan due to their size, which is a concern for Katy and her husband. However, they cherish every moment Greta spends with Vince and hope that she remains a part of their family for many more years.
Conclusion
Greta the Great Dane has shown that even the largest of dogs can be gentle and loving companions for newborns. Her heartwarming bond with baby Vince is a testament to the affectionate nature of Great Danes. For anyone considering adding a Great Dane to their family, Greta and Vince’s story is a beautiful example of the love and loyalty these gentle giants bring into a home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs
1. Are Great Danes good with children?
Yes, Great Danes are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them excellent companions for children. They are patient and protective, ensuring a safe environment for kids.
2. How should I introduce my dog to a new baby?
Introduce your dog to the new baby gradually and under supervision. Allow the dog to sniff and get familiar with the baby while ensuring the interaction is gentle and calm.
3. What should I do if my dog is too excited around the baby?
If your dog is too excited, try to calm them down before allowing interaction. Training commands such as ‘sit’ and ‘stay’ can be useful. Ensure the dog gets plenty of exercise to burn off excess energy.
4. How can I ensure my dog’s safety around my baby?
Always supervise interactions between your dog and baby. Keep the dog’s nails trimmed to avoid accidental scratches and teach the dog to be gentle around the baby.
5. Do Great Danes require special care?
Great Danes do require some special care due to their size. They need regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine veterinary check-ups. Due to their short lifespan, monitoring their health closely is essential.
For more information, you can read the full article on Newsweek.
