The Great Dane is a German breed of domestic dog known for its large size. The name simply meant 'English dog'. Since then, the English word 'dog' has come to be associated with a molossoid dog in Germany and France. These dogs were bred in the courts of German nobility, independent of the English methods, since the start of the 17th century. This results in more energy and food consumption per pound of dog than in small breeds. They have some health problems that are common to large breeds, including bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus).