Read About Dogue de Bordeaux

This very strong dog has a noble and menacing appearance. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

1. Size:

   Giant dogs

2. Weight:

   120-145 lbs.

3. Coat:

   The Dogue de Bordeaux has a short, soft coat.

4. Shedding:

   Average shedding dogs.

5. Temperament:

   Extremely loyal and protective, the Doge de Bordeaux is also calm and affectionate.

6. Obedience:

   Although the Dogue can be quite obedient, training needs to begin young, and to be consistent and kind.

7. Ease of Training:

   Although the breed can be stubborn, and even arrogant, once you get them to learn something, they don't forget. Breeders have selected for far less ferocity than these dogs displayed originally.

8. Way with Children:

   Gentle, kind, and very protective, the Dogue de Bordeaux is excellent with children.

- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Not AKC registered. Listed by several sources as being part of the AKC's Foundation Stock Service®.

2. Size & Weight:

   22-28"; 120-145 lbs.

3. Coat:

   The Dogue de Bordeaux has a short, soft coat.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   The head may well be the most prominent defining characteristic of these dogs. Large and wrinkled, the massive head can be as large as 27-30" in circumference in show-quality males. The dogs have dewlaps and flews.

5. Body:

   Strong, stocky body, with straight front legs and terrific muscles.

6. Colors:

   Fawn to mahogany, with a definite mask in red or black.

7. Life Expectancy:

   10-12 years

8. Popularity:

   This is a relatively rare breed.

9. Habitat:

   The Dogue de Bordeaux can do well in most environments, as they are not very active indoors. They do need a decent amount of outdoor exercise, however.

- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   France

2. Historical Information:

   One of the oldest French breeds, the origins of the Dogue de Bordeaux (also known at the French Mastiff or Bordeaux Bulldog) are murky, but probably include the mastiff strains that traveled with Macedonian and Roman armies through Britain, Europe, and Asia. Originally used as guard dogs and pack hunting dogs, this dog is now almost exclusively a companion animal and home guardian. The breed nearly became extinct between the two world wars, but experiences a revival in the 1960's, and came to the US in the early 1980's.

- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Extremely loyal and protective, the Doge de Bordeaux is also calm and affectionate.

2. Behavior:

   Gentle and sedate, but with strong protective instincts, the Dogue de Bordeaux is generally well-behaved. Be sure to train this very large and strong breed from early puppyhood.

3. Habits:

   Dogues de Bordeaux snore and drool; males are intolerant of other male dogs.

- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Health issues with this dog are primarily issues of size and breeding difficulties.

2. Exercise Needs:

   These dogs need a moderate amount of exercise.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Very little grooming is needed for this breed.

4. Travel Needs:

   These are very large dogs, and great care should be exercised in transporting them.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Gentle, kind, and very protective, the Dogue de Bordeaux is excellent with other pets and children -- unless they are other male dogs of the same breed. The males can be extremely possessive and will not get along well.

- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Clear eyes, sleek coats, and tons of energy.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is anything that your dog can get into, pull out, or chew is safe for him.