About Rare Earth Danes
Rare Earth Great Danes is a small, reputable Great Dane preservation breeding program in South Hill, Western Washington. As an American Kennel Club (AKC) Breeder of Merit, Courtney Miller is dedicated to protecting and advancing the Great Dane in alignment with the breed standard—while producing dogs that are as capable in their work as they are cherished in their home.
With a background in biology and a deep passion for the Great Dane breed, Courtney brings a thoughtful, science-informed approach to every breeding decision. Hers is a hands-on, actively showing program, with dogs competing in conformation, performance, and companion sports.
Mission
Produce Great Danes that are unique, special, and truly exceptional—Rare Earth Danes.
Vision
Preserve and improve the Great Dane through ethical, intentional breeding.
Courtney carefully plans every litter to prioritize temperament, structure, health, longevity, intelligence, and a sound working mind, knowing that it will impact the breed’s future. She carefully studies pedigrees, and her health testing exceeds the recommendations of the OFA CHIC program and the Great Dane Club of America.
History of Rare Earth Danes
Courtney’s journey began in 2002 with her first Great Dane, Wynne. What started as a personal connection quickly grew into a passion for training, competition, and the breed itself. By 2003, she was competing in obedience, and soon began learning the conformation ring under the guidance of an experienced mentor.
In 2004, Courtney began teaching rally, and when AKC Rally launched in 2005, many of her students were among the first in their breeds to earn titles. Wynne finished that same year ranked Top 10 in Rally Novice and Advanced among Great Danes.
Courtney established her breeding program with her foundation bitch, Freddie—an accomplished, multi-titled champion and Great Dane Club of America (GDCA) Hall of Fame producer. From that foundation, Rare Earth Great Danes has produced multiple champions and titled dogs, with achievements spanning the United States and internationally.
Credentials
We are passionate about Great Danes, and we continually expand our knowledge to better support our puppies and the breed.
- Biologist with a strong foundation in genetics and canine health
- American Kennel Club (AKC) Breeder of Merit
- Member of the Great Dane Club of America (GDCA)
- AKC-approved evaluator for Trick Dog, Canine Good Citizen (CGC), and Virtual Home Manners
- Licensed AKC judge for Temperament Test (ATT) and AKC Fetch
- Breeder & Rescue Certified
- Good Dog Breeder
- Certified by the Better Breeder Institute
A Collaborative Approach
We built Rare Earth Great Danes on long-term relationships—not one-time transactions.
Courtney remains committed to every puppy throughout its lifetime and carefully selects homes that share that mindset. Ideal owners value guidance, stay in touch, and invest in their dog’s long-term health and well-being.
It is a collaborative partnership—grounded in trust, communication, and a shared goal of giving each dog the best possible life.
To better understand the expectations, health protocols, and standards behind each breeding, learn more about our quality standards.