Mantle and Black are two of the seven Great Dane coat colors recognized by the American Kennel Club.
They are both unique and fantastic colors, however, how different are they? How do you differentiate between them? And which one should you choose?
This article will look at Mantle vs Black Great Dane from appearance, temperament, associated health problems, and price to help you decide which color to choose.
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Mantle vs Black Great Dane: What Is The Difference?
The main difference between a Mantle and a Black Great Dane is the coat color. The Mantle coat color is black and white, with black covering the whole body with a white muzzle, neck, legs, chest, and tip of the tail while a Black Great Dane’s coat color is a solid glossy black all over their body.

Mantle vs Black Great Dane: Appearance
The Mantle Great Dane and Black Great Dane are very different in appearance. The main difference is the coats’ base color.
The distinct features of the Mantle Great Dane are the white muzzle, partial or whole white neck chest, white fore legs and hind legs, and a black tail with a white tip.
White spots may also appear on the black-covered areas and also black-colored areas may also appear on the white-colored area on their body.

On the other hand, the Black Great Dane is simply a Great Dane with a jet black coat without any other color markings.

According to the American Kennel Club, any color variation that does not align with these descriptions of the standard colors does not qualify to participate in dog shows.
Mismarks of the Black Great Dane exist, having either fawn, merle, brindle, or blue markings but these are not official colors recognized by the American Kennel Club.
See Also: Black Great Dane with white chest: Everything you need to know
Both dogs’ coats are short, sleek, and smooth, despite this difference in coat color.
As a Great Dane dog breed, the physical features of both Great Danes are similar.
They both have an athletic, muscular build, a broad head with a large muzzle, and a medium-long tail.
Both dogs have natural floppy ears, however, the ears can be cropped if desired by their owners.
Read more:
Mantle vs Black Great Dane Size
Both the Mantle and Black Great Danes are similar in size. The size is the standard Great Dane breed size.
Full-grown male Great Danes weigh an average of 120 to 200 pounds with a height of 32 to 34 inches.
Females are generally smaller than the males, with a height of 28 to 32 inches and weighing 100 to 130 pounds.
Mantle vs Black Great Dane Behavior
The Great Dane’s personality is not influenced by its coat color. The Mantle and Black Great Danes’ personalities align with the Great Dane dog breed’s personality.
There is no personality difference between the Mantle and the Black Great Dane. They are both gentle, friendly, affectionate, sweet-natured, loyal, and protective.
They are also easy to train and are good family dogs.
The personality of any individual Great Dane is also shaped by their training, socialization, and proper nurturing. Therefore having a well-mannered companion is also dependent on these factors.
Related: Blue Fawn Vs Fawn Great Dane: Differences and Similarities
Mantle vs Black Great Dane: Lifespan
Both Mantle and Black Great Danes live between 7 to 10 years, which is the Great Dane’s breed lifespan.
Large breed dogs like the Great Dane tend to have a short lifespan compared to small breed dogs. Small breed dogs generally live between 10 to 15 years.
The short lifespan of some dogs has been linked to their size. Research has proven this fact and concluded that the larger a dog, the shorter its lifespan.
This is because the size of a large dog strains their physiological processes causing them to wear faster, meaning they age faster and thus have a shorter lifespan.
Mantle vs Black Great Dane: Health Concerns
Studies have shown that certain dog coat colors make them more prone to more health conditions.
Black coat colors are not among these coat colors, and currently, there are no health conditions linked to this coat color
The Mantle and Black Great Danes do not suffer any unusual health issues due to their coat color.
They are only prone to the common health issues of the Great Dane breed, which include:
- Hip dysplasia
- Wobblers syndrome
- Heart disease
- Cancer
- Hypothyroidism
- Bloat
Although Mantle and Black Great Danes are susceptible to the above health conditions, most are healthy and will not automatically develop the conditions.
It is important to be aware of the health conditions of a particular dog breed, which prepares you for what to expect and the required care for a healthy dog.
To reduce the risks of development of the conditions, always purchase Great Dane puppies from responsible breeders who practice ethical breeding and who also provide medical histories of the pups.
Good care, diet, and exercise also go a long way in raising a healthy Great Dane.
See Also: How to keep a Great Dane healthy
Mantle vs Black Great Dane Cost
Both Mantle and Black Great Dane costs are in the same range. The average cost of both the Mantle and Black Great Dane is $ 1000 – $ 3000.
The cost varies depending on the breeder, and their location. Puppies also cost more than older dogs.
Both Great Danes are available at Great Dane breeders or Great Dane rescue groups.
When you are set on buying a Great Dane always purchase one from a responsible breeder to receive a healthy puppy.
Reputable breeders provide health certificates to verify your puppy or dog’s health. You are also able to ask more questions regarding their breeding program.
Which One Is Right For You?
Now you have a better idea about the differences and similarities between a Mantle and a Black Great Dane.
The major difference is in their coat color, but in all other aspects, they are similar. They are both loving and affectionate dogs, eager to please, easy to train, and make a good fit for a family.
They are both susceptible to the common Great Dane breed’s health problems but do not necessarily develop them. Good breeding, care, diet, and exercise all help to raise healthy Great Danes.
Regardless of whether you choose the Mantle Great Dane or the Black Great Dane, you will still be getting good large breed dogs.
You only have to decide if they are the perfect fit for your family based on your preference.
Related: Merle Great Dane vs Harlequin
Summary: Mantle vs Black Great Dane
The most distinctive feature between the Mantle and Black Great Dane is their coat color.
Mantle Great Danes are always black and white, with a white muzzle, which is their distinct identifier, coupled with a partial or whole white chest, legs, and a white tip on their black tail.
Black Great Danes are completely black with no other markings.
Despite their coat color differences, the Mantle and Black Great Danes have similar physical features, personalities, and health concerns.
Mantle and Black Great Danes both bring equal amounts of affection and joy to a family.