Adoption Information
Your guide to adopting a Great Dane from RMGDRI
Adopting a Great Dane is a big decision. You are taking into your home a dog that is intelligent, loyal, fun loving, full of love, and yes, very large. However, owning a Great Dane will bring you so much enjoyment, fun and fulfillment. They have this wonderful way of burrowing right into your heart.
We are committed to matching our Danes with good, responsible and loving new owners. We strive to make the best match we can. Our number one concern is for our Danes. Below you can find detailed information on our adoption process.
Our Adoption Process
Browse Available Danes
Visit our Available Danes page to see all the Great Danes currently in our program. Each profile includes photos, personality descriptions, and important information about the dog's needs and temperament.
Submit an Application
Complete our adoption application form. We ask detailed questions about your home, family, experience with dogs, and lifestyle to help us determine the best match. Be thorough and honest—this helps us find the perfect Dane for you.
Application Review
Our volunteer team will review your application, check references (including your veterinarian). We may reach out to you to discuss any missing information on your application. This process typically takes 3-7 days.
Phone Interview
We will call you to discuss your application in more detail and to clarify and answer any questions we have.
Home Visit
Next, we'll schedule a home visit. This allows us to ensure your home is safe and suitable for a Great Dane, check your fencing, and answer any questions you may have.
Possible Danes
Let our Adoption team know the Great Dane(s) you're interested in so we can add you to their waiting list if they have one. We will share any additional information we have on the Dane and set up a call with the foster family so they can answer any questions you have.
Finalize Adoption
Once everyone agrees it's a perfect match, we'll provide you with all medical records for your review and then you'll complete the adoption contract and pay the adoption fee. We'll arrange transport and provide you with supplies and ongoing support to ensure a successful transition.
Adoption Requirements
- ✓Be at least 21 years old
- ✓Have permission from your landlord if renting (we will verify)
- ✓Have a securely fenced yard or tell us how you will exercise your foster Dane
- ✓Agree to keep the Great Dane as an indoor family member
- ✓Have current pets spayed/neutered and up to date on vaccinations
- ✓Be financially prepared for the costs of owning a giant breed dog
- ✓Agree to return the dog to RMGDRI if you can no longer care for them
Adoption Fees
Our adoption fees vary based on the dog's age and special needs. Adoption fee - $600 Seniors $450
What's Included:
- • Spay/neuter surgery
- • All current vaccinations
- • Heartworm test and treatment if needed
- • Microchip
- • Complete medical records
- • Behavioral assessment
- • Lifetime support from RMGDRI
Note: Adoption fees rarely cover the full cost of caring for each dog. Your adoption fee helps us continue rescuing more Great Danes in need.
What to Expect
Most Great Danes need an adjustment period in their new home. The "Rule of 3s" is a helpful guide:
3 Days
Your dog may be overwhelmed and nervous. They're learning the new environment and may not show their true personality yet.
3 Weeks
Your dog is settling in and starting to feel comfortable. Their true personality begins to emerge and routines are forming.
3 Months
Your dog finally feels at home! They trust you, have adjusted to their routine, and their full personality shines through.
Ready to Adopt?
Browse our available Great Danes or submit an adoption application today!