Welcome!! I rescue dogs and tranport them as well to the new adopters. I have one dog who weighs 97 pounds and has no problem with the car. most of the time dogs will lay down unless you have the window open and they like putting their head out. I was at a Dog Expo in Jacksonville two weekends ago where 110 dogs were adopted out. about 8000 people showed up for the Expo. When I first got the HHR I opened the back and put a blanket down for footing and quickly found out that five dogs can get in very fast. Most of my dogs are around 55 to 70 pounds. I don't think you would have a problem.

 

I show Poodles and at a show last fall another poodle exhibitor came from Shreveport to Hickory NC in an HHR with two people, 3 Standard Poodles in crates, 2 smaller dogs, all the equipment needed to groom and care for the dogs and the humans along with luggage etc. I had two people, luggage, 5 mini poodles in crates and all the above equipment in my HHR. I can't imagine having trouble getting one little Great Dane in easily...:). If you covered the back seat your Dane could easily step in the back passenger door and lay comfortably on the back seat if you are worried about the height of the jump in to the back.

 

You do realize the HHR WILL be the crate!

 

Thanks for all your suggestions (and humor). He's 34" to the shoulder (not head, shoulder) and the rear opening is only 31", but I agree it should be fine- probably best to simply take him to dealer and give it a try. Yes, we get a lot of comments about saddling up our 'horse'.

Smoke Wagon - good tip on the rear bumper protection. We did think about that and use a blanket now.

 

Yes I do realize that. I am quite familiar with the breed as I bred and showed Great Danes for many years. I also shared a bed with 4 of them so I know how much room they take up. I do have to say that they try very hard to be small and are usually very well behaved in a car.

 

Any chances of a picture of the dog, with or without HHR? Thanks.

 

 

I am sure you will have no problem. He may be a bit hunched when he stands.