Is there a breed of dog that looks like a Great Dane but is less than 80lbs?
I love the look of a Great Dane, but I am wanting a smaller dog than the giant. I have looked at boxers, weimaraners, rhodesian ridge backs, but I still love the face of the Dane. Any suggestions?

The Italian mastiff loooks like a GD but stands about 6" shorter if that helps.

A Rottie, lol!!

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Wouldn't it be more sensible to look at the breed traits that suit your lifestyle, rather than basing a dog on how it looks?

All the breeds you have mentioned have different needs and requirements, and some are not really suited to a novice owner.

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What about an ex racing greyhound?

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I would say a Pointer would be the best physical match but I think they are way more energetic then a Great Dane though?

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I would say a Ridgeback, but I'm biased They do have Great Dane in them, they come from breeding of Great Danes, Mastiffs, native African dogs and some other breeds. Zimba does get mistaken for a Great Dane quite often.

Do research any breed you get to make sure they fit with your lifestyle.

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While I understand liking the `look` of a dog (because GSDs are the most beautiful creatures on earth), don`t you think it would also be an idea to consider the purpose the dog was bred for, and its temperament and aptitude? If you are a sedentary person, a working or gundog breed would not be ideal, even though they might have the looks you like? And likewise, if you want to do agility or flyball, a pekinese might not be the thing?

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I'd say a Rhodesian is probably your best bet as quite often I see them in the distance and can't make up my mind which they are until I get closer! They are a big, strong breed as well though and much more active than a Great Dane and so will require more exercise and effort to train.

True, but Italian Mastiffs are much stockier and quite often heavier! Also if you can't cope with a Great Dane for whatever reason then I can't see an Italian Mastiff working out as they have just as much size and presence and are a harder breed to work with!

Edit: Or how about a decenty bred Bullmastiff that actually has a bit of a muzzle?