COLDWATER — Zeus, a gentle yet giant Great Dane, stands 7 ft 4 in on his hind legs and 44 inches on all fours. That is the same size as the average donkey. Named the world's tallest dog in history by the Guinness Book of World Records in September 2013, Zeus had his first claim to fame by traveling to New York City and appearing on Good Morning America with his owners Kevin and Denise Doorlag.
Zeus was one of 15 dogs in a litter. Both parents were Great Danes. The mother was a relatively smaller Great Dane and the father above average, but the Doorlag's never thought that Zeus would be this tall.
"We choose him based on his color," said Kevin.
The Doorlags, from Otsego MI, also own a full size German Shepard.
"Our German Shepard can walk underneath Zeus and not touch him," said Kevin. "He is a great dog. Very friendly and loves people."
Kevin and Zeus drove from Otsego to Coldwater on Thursday to visit residents at The Laurels of Coldwater at the request of Pat Wilson.
"I was so happy they could make it. It's a great thing to see," said Wilson.
Zeus was allowed to walk the halls lined with residents and staff. They were able to feed Zeus treats which he gladly accepted, along with plenty of hugs and petting.
Zeus will be celebrating his 5th birthday on Thanksgiving day and he is sure to have a feast fit for a king- the king of all dogs that is.
Weighing in at 174 pounds, Zeus eats about 10 to 12 cups of dry dog food, cans of wet dog food and boiled chicken daily.
He is a certified therapy dog and visits patients at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo a couple times a week, at least when he is not touring the state to share his easy going temperament and affection.
Source: Zeus draws large crowd at The Laurels - News - The Daily Reporter - Coldwater, MI - Coldwater, MI
