Dogue De Bordeaux
Appearance
| Dogue De Bordeaux Quick Summary | |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | French Mastiff |
| Origin | France |
| Lineage | Pedigree |
| Size | Large |
| Height (at withers) | 22.5-27in (57-67.5cm) |
| Weight | 120-145lbs (54-65kg) |
| Hair Colour(s) | |
| Lifespan | 9-15 years |
| Energy Level | Medium |
| Litter size | 5-8 |
| Shedding | Low |
| Grooming | Medium |
| Barking Tendency | Low |
| Exercise requirements | Low |
| Ease of training | Medium |
| Suitability for kids | Medium |
| Animal compatability | Medium |
| Aggression levels | Medium |
| Distress if left | Medium |
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a strong, powerful and imposing dog. The body is muscular and wide, set somewhat low to the ground, with a deep broad chest and straight and heavy-boned front legs. The large head is broad and round with lots of wrinkles, small pendant ears and a thick upper lip that hangs down over the lower jaw. The tail is straight and tapers. The coat is short and sleek. A famous example of a Dogue de Bordeaux is Hooch from Turner and Hooch, starring Tom Hanks (1989).
Temperament
Dogues De Bordeaux are calm and patient dogs that form strong bonds with their families and owners. Highly loyal, they will protect their family and territory if threatened. They do not like to be left alone for long periods of time and will associate this separation as punishment, and they have a tendency to snore and drool. Due to their power, they are suited to those with some experience of dog ownership and training, rather than novices. Dogues De Bordeaux get along well with children and other pets but must be socialised early to reduce aggression towards other dogs. These fearless dogs make good watch and guard dogs and will confront any uninvited guests.
History & Skills
Dogues De Bordeaux originate from the region around Bordeaux in France, from where their name is derived, and have a history dating back 600 years. Their origins are somewhat hazy, with some believing they predate Bullmastiffs and Bulldogs, others that they developed around the same time, and others that they come from Tibetan Mastiffs. Once classified in three varieties depending upon the region of France they came from and the task they were bred for, they were given the name Bordeaux in 1863 for winning a canine exhibition. Dogues De Bordeaux have been used as hunting dogs, herding dogs, guard dogs and even bull baiters. Many of these dogs perished with their wealthy owners during the French Revolution, and much was done during the 1960s to rebuild the breed. Thankfully they have begun to flourish in recent years.
Breed Specific Ailments
Dogues De Bordeaux tend to live between 9-15 years and have a number of health problems, which include dysplasia, weak cruciate ligaments and spinal problem. Bitches often need Caesarean sections when giving birth due to the puppies' large heads.
Grooming
Dogues De Bordeaux are easy dogs to groom. A weekly rub over the short coat with a rubber grooming mitt to remove any loose or dead hair is all that is required. The skin folds on the face should be cleaned regularly to prevent the risk of skin infections.
Exercise & Environment
Dogues De Bordeaux are sensitive to heat because of the shape of their muzzle, and need shady areas to retreat to on hot days. They are not lively dogs, thanks to their size, but will need a daily half-hour walk. As with most large dog breeds, exercise must be limited as puppies to prevent damage to joints and bones.
Recognition
 | FCI - Federation Cynologique Internationale | |
 | The Kennel Club (UK) |
Breed Clubs
Coming soon!
Owners Gallery
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