Megaesophagus has become a top health concern in Great Danes. Mega is a potentially fatal condition and researchers believe that there area bout a dozen breeds that are genetically predisposed to megaesophagus. The primary symptoms of the disorder is the esophagus not moving food along into the stomach efficiently. Puppies can be diagnosed between 6-8 weeks old, they end up coughing and regurgitating food. 

The Great Dane Club of America has funded research to locate genetic markers for Megaesophagus and hopefully there will be genetic test for this heartwrenching disease soon.