Meet Bing, the Great Dane from The Friend Movie—What You Should Know Before Getting a Dane

Great Danes are majestic, powerful, and endlessly lovable—but they’re not for the faint of heart. Whether you're dreaming of adopting one or just brought home a squishy-faced pup, here’s what you need to know from someone who’s lived it: Bev Klingensmith, longtime breeder, trainer, and proud owner of Bing—the Great Dane featured in The Friend movie.

Temperament: It's More Than How They're Raised

You’ve probably heard that “it’s all in how you raise them.” The truth? That’s only half of it. Temperament is both nature and nurture, and with giant breeds like Great Danes, genetics matter—a lot. A 100+ lb dog with an unstable temperament isn’t just inconvenient, it’s dangerous. That’s why it’s crucial to purchase from a responsible Great Dane breeder or adopt through a reputable rescue.

Early Socialization Starts Suprisingly Early

Did you know a puppy’s critical socialization window starts at just 3 weeks old? A good breeder is already introducing puppies to different sounds, surfaces, and environments while they’re still in the whelping box. Once they’re home with you, puppy classes, positive experiences, and exposure to the world are key to raising a confident, stable adult dog.

Bing the Great Dane, now known for his role in The Friend movie, began puppy kindergarten at 8 weeks old and trained consistently for years—likely a major reason why he was able to perform so well on screen.

Big Dog, Big Budget

Let’s be real: everything costs more when your dog is the size of a small horse.

• Food? More.

• Beds? Giant-sized.

• Vet bills? You guessed it—bigger.

• Crates, toys, training? Bigger, stronger, pricier.

Don’t commit to a Great Dane unless you’re prepared for the financial side of things, including unexpected medical expenses. If you're searching for "how much does a Great Dane cost?" or "vet bills for giant breed dogs," this is your sign to think it through.

Exercise: Couch Potato? Not So Fast

Most Great Danes aren’t lazy—they’re just waiting for the right outlet. As young adults, they need ample space and freedom to move, but not “forced” exercise (like long runs or stairs) until they’re at least 18 months old. Free play in a fenced area is your best bet until their bodies are more developed.

Crate Training is a Must

Yes, even for a dog who barely fits in the crate. Proper crate training helps with everything from safety and house training to managing anxiety and protecting your home. Just make sure you’ve got space for a crate that can comfortably house a small pony.

Skip the Sibling Rivalry

Don’t get two puppies at once—especially not of the same sex. It may seem like a fun idea, but once maturity hits, you’re rolling the dice on serious behavioral issues and possible aggression.

Health Testing Isn’t Optional

A responsible breeder health tests their dogs before breeding. For Great Danes, a CHIC number means the dog has passed key screenings for:

• Hips (OFA or PennHIP)

• Thyroid (OFA)

• Echocardiogram

• Eye CERF

You can verify health testing results at www.ofa.org. DNA testing alone doesn’t cut it—we don’t yet have genetic markers for many major health concerns in Great Danes.

Choose the Breeder, Not the Color

We get it—harlequins and blues are stunning. But choosing a breeder based on coat color is a shortcut to disappointment. Prioritize health, temperament, and ethics over looks. Your future self—and your future dog—will thank you.

How to Find a Good Great Dane Breeder

A responsible breeder should have mentors, belong to breed clubs, and have a solid reputation in the community. A great place to start? The Great Dane Club of America at www.gdca.org or your local all-breed or Great Dane club. And don’t be afraid to call around and ask questions—the best breeders will expect it.

Want to Learn More?
Check out www.fotodanes.com for excellent resources like How to Select a Breeder and Raising a Puppy to Be a Confident Adult.

Final Thoughts
Great Danes are loyal, loving, and downright magical—but they’re also a serious commitment. If you're here because you saw Bing in The Friend movie and fell in love, know that behind that calm, camera-ready presence is years of care, training, and responsible breeding. If you're ready to do it right, the reward is beyond worth it.