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Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a large breed that excels at guarding. This ancient dog of France requires an owner with comparable strength and determination.
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Breed Facts
Finding a Dogue de Bordeaux
Physical Characteristics
- Rectangular, muscular, large build
- Wrinkles on face and head
- Coat: Short, smooth hair
- Coloring from light fawn to dark red fawn with brown or black mask
- Loose skin on neck
- Rounded, hanging ears
- Height: 23-28 inches
- Weight: 99-135 pounds
- Average lifespan: 8-10 years
Temperament
- Loyal, devoted, playful, even-tempered, affectionate, powerful, stubborn
- Interaction with people: Needs early socialization with children; wary of strangers
- Interaction with animals: Needs early socialization with other animals
- Protection: Excellent watchdog and guard dog; very protective of family and territory
Medical Conditions
- Bloat
- Cancers (including lymphoma)
- Congenital cardiac disease (including subvalvular aortic stenosis)
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Patellar luxation
- Osteochondrosis (primarily in shoulders)
- von Willebrand's Disease (blood disorder)
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- OK for apartments
- Needs plenty of exercise including a long, daily walk
- Needs a dog-experienced owner
Grooming
- Average shedder
- Easily groomed
- Brush weekly
- Bathe every two to three weeks
Other Facts
- Also known as the French Mastiff and Bordeaux Bulldog
- Breed was featured in the Tom Hanks 1989 movie "Turner and Hooch"
Breed History
- Originated in the Bordeaux region of France
- Descended from Mastiffs and large Spanish Alanos
- Guarded estates of English Kings in Bordeaux
- Also used for boar and bear hunting
- Used in baiting animals and dog fighting
- Breed suffered heavily during the French Revolution and again during World War II
- The first Bordeauxs were brought to the U.S. in the early 1980s
- Gaining popularity round the world
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Dogue de Bourdeaux Society of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit DDBS Rescue
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