Rent safe and private dog parks hosted by locals

Dog Training Dog Reactivity Dog Enrichment Sniffspot Community Top Dog Trainers City Dog Parks Dog Breeds Dog Names Dog Rescues & Shelters

Home

Blog

Dog Breeds

Great Dane: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

Great Dane: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

Sam Tetrault

February 05, 2025

Dog Breeds

Great Dane: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners thumbnail

Discover the Great Dane, a breed celebrated for its friendly, affectionate, and curious nature. Recognized as a large dog, Great Danes have their origins in Germany, where they were initially bred for hunting and guarding starting in the 16th century.

In this post, we share insights from nearly 10,000 Sniffspot users, offering practical advice for new and prospective Great Dane owners. Whether you’re considering adopting or rescuing a Great Dane or already have one, you'll find valuable tips on how to care for and enjoy life with a friendly Great Dane.

As Sniffspot user Stephanie says, "The most vocal dog I've ever had. She will have whole conversations with people!"

Sniffspot Breed Survey - Great Dane Facts

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Survey 2024

Great Dane Quick Characteristics

Breed Type: Working

Size: Large

Life Expectancy: 7 to 10 years

Healthy Weight Range: 110 to 175 lbs

Height Range: 28 to 34 inches

Temperament: Friendly, Affectionate, Curious

Coat Type: Short

Color: Fawn, Brindle, Black, Blue, Harlequin, Mantle

About the Great Dane

According to nearly 10,000 Sniffspot community users who shared real-world data about their Great Danes, we learned that these dogs are friendly and social. The Great Dane is also known to be very social with children and other pets.

When living with a Dane, 86% of our owners indicated that a large house with a fenced yard is ideal. Additionally, 38% of owners found that an apartment or condominium with regular walks is also acceptable. This dog is moderately trainable, often benefiting from a professional trainer, and owners say that the Great Dane learns best with positive reinforcement, consistent routines, and training aids.

In terms of exercise, 46% of Sniffspot owners say their Great Dane benefits from moderate exercise every day, including 1-2 hours of activity each day, such as walks and active play sessions. The Sniffspot Dane community does not recommend this breed for first-time owners.

History and Origin of the Great Dane

The Great Dane, known as the "Apollo of dogs," has a majestic presence and a gentle temperament. Originating in the 16th century in Germany, it was developed from Mastiff-type dogs for hunting and guarding. Despite its French name, "Grand Danois," the breed is German and was officially recognized in 1876.

In the 19th century, the breed evolved through crossbreeding with Greyhounds, leading to a more refined appearance. American breeders continued to enhance the breed's structure and temperament, transforming it from a fierce hunter into a gentle giant.

Today, the Great Dane is admired for its strength and elegance, with a smooth, majestic gait and a well-balanced appearance. Although the breed faces health challenges that limit its lifespan, dedicated breeders are working to improve its longevity and address common health issues.

Great Dane with blue collar
Leonides Ruvalcabar on Unsplash

Great Dane Traits and Characteristics

Temperament: Friendly, Affectionate, Curious

Energy Level: Moderate

Trainability: Moderately trainable - Learns commands with consistent training and practice.

Grooming Needs: Low maintenance - Requires minimal grooming, such as occasional brushing and baths.

Good with Kids: Very friendly and social with children

Good with Other Pets: Very friendly with other pets

What to Expect as a Great Dane Dog Owner

What to expect as a great dane owner - sniffspot survey data

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Research 2024

Grooming Needs

Great Danes require low-maintenance grooming. This means Great Dane owners should expect minimal grooming, such as occasional brushing and baths. Great Danes have a short coat, which is ideal for protection against the elements and is considered to shed moderately. To keep your Great Dane's coat healthy and up to breed standards, include brushing in their routine and brush weekly to manage shedding and keep the coat shiny. Among common breeds in the working group, the grooming needs for Great Danes are low maintenance.

Exercise Needs

Great Danes require moderate activity each day. Though one of the most popular dog breeds, Danes are considered very athletic and high-energy. They thrive with 1-2 hours of activity each day, including walks and active play sessions. Owners of Danes report that their dogs especially enjoy tug-of-war, playing with squeaky toys, and hiking.

When large breeds like Danes don't get sufficient exercise, they are more likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors such as separation anxiety, overexcitement, and stubbornness. They need consistent training, mental stimulation, and regular moderate exercise to avoid excess energy.

Diet and Nutrition

What should you feed your Great Dane to keep them healthy? As a moderate-energy breed, their diet is important. A reported 65% of our community feeds their Dane commercial dry kibble. With moderate exercise, Danes should eat 6 to 10 cups of vet-recommended food to maintain a healthy weight of around 110 to 175 lbs. However, your Great Dane's ideal weight and food intake will depend on your pet's sex, activity level, and age.

Great Dane Health Concerns

The Great Dane breed is most prone to digestive issues (e.g., bloating, sensitive stomach) and joint problems (e.g., hip dysplasia, arthritis). A reported 55% of our Great Dane owners have reported digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and lack of appetite. The risk for these challenges increases as Danes age.

Similarly, 52% reported joint problems such as arthritis, elbow dysplasia, degenerative issues, and osteosarcoma. Additionally, 38% of Great Dane owners claim their dog struggles with skin conditions such as allergies, yeast infections, impetigo, ringworm, alopecia, and folliculitis — common health concerns for Danes. If you're worried about any of these health issues, consult your Dane's vet.

How Friendly Are Great Danes?

Another important factor to consider when adopting a Dane is whether they fit with your current family. How friendly are Great Danes compared to other large-sized breeds?

How friendly are great danes? Sniffspot community survey

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Survey 2024

With moderate training, you can cultivate your Dane's natural friendliness and affection. Introducing your pet to positive reinforcement (treats, praise, rewards) and consistent daily training routines early on helps them avoid undesirable behaviors such as separation anxiety, overexcitement, and stubbornness. Here’s what our community of Great Dane owners say about their pets’ friendliness:

He’s a giant friendly doofus who loves being with his people. (Brian)

Danes are incredibly sweet giants. They just want to be held, and I think it’s the most endearing thing. Our Dane always comes to our face if we’re crying to provide comfort. (Ikea)

So gentle - this dog will love you more than anything. (Taylor)

How to Train Your Great Dane

Whether you're adopting a Dane puppy or an adult Great Dane, training is a significant part of owning this large-sized breed. Without proper training, your Dane is more likely to display undesirable behaviors such as separation anxiety, overexcitement, and stubbornness. Providing stimulating activities is a great first step, but this needs to be paired with the right training for your Dane.

As a working breed, Great Danes benefit from praise and positive reinforcement. Here's what our Dane community recommends based on their experience with their own dogs:

Positive Reinforcement (86%): This includes treats, praise, rewards, and so on for positive behavior.

Consistent Routines (53%): A consistent training routine allows your pet to become comfortable with expectations.

Training Aids (47%): Dog training aids like martingale collars, walking harnesses, and no-pull attachments.

As dogs bred for hunting and guarding, Danes are considered moderately trainable and often benefit from a professional trainer.

What Do Owners Love About Great Danes?

We asked Sniffspot Dane owners what they love most about their Great Dane pups, and here's what they had to say:

Danes are incredibly sweet giants. They just want to be held, and I think it’s the most endearing thing. Our Dane always comes to our face if we’re crying to provide comfort. (Ikea)

Their easygoing disposition. Though I believe all dogs are individuals and their personalities are unique to them, not necessarily due to their breed. (Andrea)

I love how loyal they are, their goofy personalities, and their size. I love big dogs. (TF)

What Are the Biggest Challenges for Great Dane Owners?

Similarly, Dane owners shared some of the biggest challenges of living with their Great Dane:

Stomach bloat and they aren't very coordinated for their size. (Stephanie)

He is just a large dog, and his environment needs to accommodate his size. (Lisa)

Medical issues. That’s the exact reason I don’t recommend them for first-time owners. Unless you have both the financial and mental capacity to visit the vet frequently, Danes may not be the right choice for you. (Ikea)

Is a Great Dane Right for a First-Time Dog Owner?

Are great danes right for first-time dog owners?

Source: Sniffspot 2024 Community Dog Breed Survey

According to 60% of our Sniffspot community, Great Danes are not ideal for first-time dog owners. This is due to their friendly nature and moderate exercise needs. Great Dane owners say it best:

I love how loyal they are, their goofy personalities, and their size. I love big dogs. (TF)

Great Danes are so sweet and loving, truly a gentle giant! They are happy just being near their people. (Kendall)

They are big but will adjust to any kind of living situation, and they are very loyal. (IP)

Advice for Great Dane Owners

Luckily, our Sniffspot community is full of experienced and knowledgeable Dane owners. These Great Dane breed owners share the most essential tips and advice for prospective or new dog owners:

Be Patient with Your Training

Lots of patience is needed, as they are pretty much puppies until they are 4 years old. (Stephanie)

Make sure you're prepared for one of the largest dog breeds. (Taylor)

Prepare for Their Size

Start training early, as they will grow very big. Establish good habits while they are small. Socialize with similarly sized dogs until they are appropriately trained. Small dogs can be fearful, which can cause distress for your Dane. (Joe)

Anything you wouldn’t want a 130-160 lb dog to do, don’t let them do it as puppies. (Jennifer)

Take Preventative Steps for Potential Health Challenges

Be prepared to make your house adaptable as they age due to joint problems, such as using a raised feeder and providing steps for vehicles or beds. (Emily)

Research both the breed itself and personal experiences from Dane owners. Ensure you are financially prepared to support the breed's health needs. (JH)

Expect Others to Be Cautious Around Your Great Dane

Their size is often intimidating to other dogs and people. (Bri)

Be ready for people to stop and ask many questions about their food intake, lifespan, and poop size. Just remember that they are worth it. I believe in providing a quality life and focusing on their well-being. (Jordan)

Frequently Asked Questions about the Great Dane

What is the average lifespan of a Great Dane?

The average lifespan of a Great Dane is typically between 7 to 10 years.

What is the size of a Great Dane?

An adult Great Dane weighs between 110 to 175 lbs and stands between 28 to 34 inches tall.

How much grooming does a Great Dane need?

Great Danes require low-maintenance grooming. Regular grooming helps keep their coat healthy and manageable. Great Danes have a short coat that is well-suited for protection against the elements. They are considered moderate shedders.

To maintain your Great Dane's coat, it’s important to brush them weekly to manage shedding and keep the coat shiny. Among working breeds, Great Dane grooming is categorized as relatively easy.

How much exercise do Great Danes need?

Great Danes require moderate activity each day. Though one of the most popular dog breeds, Danes are classified as moderately athletic and somewhat high-energy.

Danes are excellent companions and thrive with between 1-2 hours of activity each day, including walks and active play sessions. Owners of Danes note that their dogs particularly enjoy tug-of-war, playing with squeaky toys, and hiking.

If large breeds like Danes don’t receive enough exercise, they may develop unwanted behaviors. These dogs need ongoing training, mental stimulation, and consistent exercise to channel their energy effectively.

How friendly are Great Danes with children?

According to our data, Great Danes are very friendly and social with children.

How well do Great Danes get along with other pets?

Our research indicates that Great Danes are very friendly with other pets.

What should you feed your Great Dane to keep him healthy?

As a moderate energy breed, the diet of your Dane is crucial. A significant 65% of our community feed their Dane commercial dry kibble.

For optimal health, Danes should consume 6 to 10 cups of vet-recommended food to maintain a healthy weight around 110 to 175 lbs. The exact amount and type of food will depend on your Great Dane's sex, activity level, and age.

What health concerns are common for Great Danes?

The Great Dane breed is particularly prone to digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and lack of appetite, as well as joint problems like arthritis, elbow dysplasia, degenerative issues, and osteosarcoma.

Our data shows that 55% of Great Dane owners reported digestive issues, while 52% reported joint problems. Additionally, 38% of Great Dane owners indicated their dog struggles with skin conditions like allergies, yeast infections, impetigo, ringworm, alopecia, and folliculitis. If you have concerns about any of these health issues, consult your Dane’s veterinarian.

Resources for Great Dane Owners

Whether you're a current Great Dane owner or considering adopting a Dane, Sniffspot is here to lend a helping hand. Here are some of the most relevant resources for Great Dane owners:

Most Popular Great Dane Names

Great Dane Animal Rescues

Great Dane Club of America

Sources:

Great Dane History. (American Kennel Club)

Great Dane Dog Breed - Facts and Personality Traits. (Hills Pet Nutrition)

Sam Tetrault

February 05, 2025

Dog Breeds

Sam Tetrault

About the author

Sam is a marketer and dog lover from Seattle, WA. Though she loves dogs of all shapes and sizes, she has a soft spot for dogs struggling with reactivity and anxiety. As a reactive dog owner herself, she empowers dog owners to advocate for their pet's needs when traveling or at home. When not writing for Sniffspot, Sam loves to explore her city and nearby hiking trails. She can be found in nature, reading a new book, or creating content for PNW travel blog. She's a full-stack marketer, and she loves bringing big ideas to life on the small screen.

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot is a community marketplace that enables anyone to rent land by-the-hour as a safe and private dog park.

Find Sniffspot on your favorite social media

The Best Dog Parks Near Atlanta, Georgia

The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States

The Best Dog Parks Near San Diego, California

All categories

Dog Parent's Guide to Separation Anxiety

Boxer: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

Most recent articles

The Best Dog Parks Near Atlanta, Georgia

The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States

The Best Dog Parks Near San Diego, California

Furry Co-Pilots Welcome: The Best Way to Travel in an RV with Your Dog

Australian Shepherd: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

Golden Retriever: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

The Best Dog Parks Near Atlanta, Georgia

The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States

The Best Dog Parks Near San Diego, California

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

My Dog Is Food Aggressive With Other Dogs: What To Do
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
Scent Training for Dogs: A Beginner's Guide
As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.
Service Dog Training Costs: DIY vs. Pro
More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.
What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression
You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?
Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop?
Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!

Dog enrichment guides

The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States
Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.
Best Toys for Herding Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Ultimate Guide: Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers
Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?
Daily Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?
Everyone knows dogs need exercise, but how much is enough? Walks are great, but creating a truly balanced fitness plan means understanding your dog's specific needs. This post helps you develop a daily exercise calculator for your dog, considering breed, age, and lifestyle. We'll cover fun activities, understanding exercise intensity, and recognizing when your pup has had enough. Let's create a plan that keeps your dog happy and healthy!
Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Dog reactivity guides

Rottweiler Aggression: Truth vs. Myth
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
What Is a Reactive Dog? A Guide to Understanding Reactivity
So: Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (cars, bikes, skateboards, and other fast-moving objects are also common triggers) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling not only feels embarrassing for you — it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
How to Socialize a Reactive Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
Definitive Guide: What is Dog Reactivity?
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
The 9 Best Online Communities for Reactive Dog Parents
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

The Best Dog Trainers in the United States of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in the United States, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Seattle, WA of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Seattle, WA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Portland, OR of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Portland, OR, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Los Angeles, CA of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Los Angeles, CA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in New York, NY of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in New York, NY, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.

City dog parks guides

Top 10 Indoor Dog Parks: A US Guide
Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.
The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States
Searching for the best off-leash dog parks near you in the United States? Whether you're looking for public dog parks with open spaces or private, fully-fenced areas, this comprehensive guide has you covered. Discover top-rated parks across the country, plus essential tips on what to bring and what to expect for your next adventure.
Best Dog Parks Near Me in Las Vegas
Looking for the perfect dog park near me in Las Vegas? You're in luck! This guide explores all the best options for your pup, from public dog parks to private dog parks near me on Sniffspot. We'll help you find the ideal spot for playtime, socializing, and fresh air. Plus, we'll cover essential etiquette and safety tips to ensure a happy visit for everyone. Get ready for some tail-wagging fun!
The Best United States Dog Parks
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!
The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.

Dogs breeds

Top dog names in the US

Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
Most Popular Male Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
Most Popular Female Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
Most Popular Golden Retriever Names
Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names
Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

Top dog rescues in the US

The Best Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Washington. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Oregon Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Oregon. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best California Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in California. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Florida Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Florida. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best New York Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in New York. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

Great Dane: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

Great Dane Quick Characteristics

About the Great Dane

History and Origin of the Great Dane

Great Dane Traits and Characteristics

What to Expect as a Great Dane Dog Owner

Grooming Needs

Exercise Needs

Diet and Nutrition

Great Dane Health Concerns

How Friendly Are Great Danes?

How to Train Your Great Dane

What Do Owners Love About Great Danes?

What Are the Biggest Challenges for Great Dane Owners?

Is a Great Dane Right for a First-Time Dog Owner?

Advice for Great Dane Owners

Be Patient with Your Training

Prepare for Their Size

Take Preventative Steps for Potential Health Challenges

Expect Others to Be Cautious Around Your Great Dane

Frequently Asked Questions about the Great Dane

What is the average lifespan of a Great Dane?

What is the size of a Great Dane?

How much grooming does a Great Dane need?

How much exercise do Great Danes need?

How friendly are Great Danes with children?

How well do Great Danes get along with other pets?

What should you feed your Great Dane to keep him healthy?

What health concerns are common for Great Danes?

Resources for Great Dane Owners

Sam Tetrault

About Sniffspot

Follow us

Related articles

All categories

Most recent articles

Related articles

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

Dog enrichment guides

Dog reactivity guides

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

Dogs breeds

Top dog names in the US

Top dog rescues in the US

About Sniffspot

Browse by top cities

Atlanta

Austin

Boston

Calgary

Chicago

Columbus

Dallas

Denver

Edmonton

Houston

Las Vegas

Logan

Los Angeles

Milwaukee

Minneapolis

Nashville

New York

Old Toronto

Omaha

Ottawa

Philadelphia

Phoenix

Portland

San Antonio

San Diego

San Francisco

Seattle

Tampa

Washington

Westminster

Browse by top states