Frequently Asked Questions

The first step is to fill out the application (get application here). You can email the completed application to: adoptadane@rmgreatdane.org or fax it to: (303)484-2733.

One of our adoption committee members will contact you for a phone interview, check your references and if all looks good we will set you up for a home visit with one of our volunteers.

The entire process typically takes 2-4 weeks total. If all the above looks good we will send you an approval letter.

After you receive your approval letter is the best time to really look at the Danes available on our website and to let us know which ones you are interested in so we can try to make the perfect match for your family!

• Where are you located?

We do not have a facility. All of our Danes are cared for in private foster homes in CO, KS, NE, UT and WY.

• How much does it cost to adopt?

We are a non-profit organization and live or die by donations. Most families donate $400-$700 on average, just to give you an idea. With the major medical cases, the more you can afford to give, the better. All of us are strictly volunteers and are not paid for the work we do. All money goes directly to the dogs in rescue and covers food and medical expenses. We make sure all Danes are spayed/neutered, heartworm tested, current on vaccinations, and we treat any pre-existing medical conditions they may come in with. We spend around $500 on each dog that comes into our care and your adoption donation helps offset these costs.

• I am interested in one particular Dane on your website, how do I get more information on this Dane?

We get Danes into rescue on a regular basis and they are placed as quickly as they come in, so it is best not to focus on any specific Danes until you have been approved. The entire process typically takes no more than 2-4 weeks total. Once you are approved and ready to adopt, we will give you all the information we have on the Dane you are interested in.

• How do I meet the Dane I am interested in?

You must go through the adoption process first. When you are approved and once we agree on a particular Dane, we'll set up a time for the placement. We'll do introductions and as long as everyone is getting along and you feel confident in the decision to adopt, we will go ahead with the paperwork.

• Do you adopt to families with young children?

We can adopt to families with children over the age of 5. We get a number of Danes turned into us because they are not doing well in homes with young children. We occasionally make exceptions for Dane experienced families, but our policy was established to make sure that we find forever homes for the rescue Danes in our care as well as to look out for the well being of young children.

• Do we need to have a fenced yard in order to adopt?

If you do have a fence it must be in good repair. We understand that some neighborhoods do not allow fencing. If you do not have a fence, you will need to demonstrate how you will safely exercise and potty your Dane.

• What if I rent my property?

We require written approval from your landlord or apartment complex stating that you are allowed to have a dog the size of a Great Dane on your property. Some places have weight and breed restrictions so it is important that it specifies any restrictions. Please be sure to turn this in with your application, we cannot begin the application process without it.

• I do not live in Colorado, do you adopt out of state?

We place Great Danes in a five state region only including CO, KS, WY, UT and NE. If the Dane is being fostered out of state, we ask that adopting families be willing to drive part way to pick up your new addition.

• Why do some available Danes say “Dane experienced homes only”?

These Danes are still in their “puppy stage.” The reason for our policy regarding Dane puppies is they can be a lot for someone inexperienced with the breed to handle! You wouldn't believe the number of pups we get turned into rescue for this very reason. They are capable of mass destruction due to their size and strength and they chew up couches, tables, and chairs, instead of shoes and books like most puppies. They can also be quite challenging behaviorally if you don't have experience in dealing with this kind of issue. We have found that it works best for families new to the breed to consider a Dane in the 2-5 year old range who has outgrown the destructive puppy phase. At 3 years of age is when most Danes mature and start to mellow and it makes for a much more positive and less challenging experience.