Dogue de Bordeaux

Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson Dogue de Bordeaux

This strong, muscular breed hails from France and is a mastiff-like dog with a giant head and stocky body. In fact, “Dogue” means Mastiff in French.

Average size and lifespan

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Height: 1ft 11in - 2ft 3in
Weight: 100-127lbs
Lifespan: 5 - 9 Years

Behavior

  • Affection3/5
  • Kid-Friendly1/5
  • Stranger-Friendly1/5
  • Dog-Friendly1/5
  • Barking Amount3/5

Care

  • Grooming Difficulty1/5
  • Shedding Amount4/5
  • Easy to Train3/5
  • Can Be Alone3/5
  • Exercise Need2/5

Environment

  • Cold Tolerance3/5
  • Heat Tolerance2/5
  • Apartment-Friendly2/5

Dogue de Bordeaux Information

Remember the 1989 film Turner and Hooch starring Tom Hanks? Hooch, the large and drooling protagonist pup, is a Dogue de Bordeaux!

The breed is loyal and affectionate. He is also protective and brave without being overly affectionate. His beautiful coat ranges from dark red to light fawn and requires very little maintenance. As far as exercise needs go, they are not very active. A short walk or a quick play session in the yard is more than enough. Just make sure you have a towel on hand to wipe up oodles of drool.

History

The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a rare and captivating breed with a rich history dating back to the 14th century. These stout, muscular canines were originally bred for hunting, guarding, and working on farms but have since become beloved companions and show dogs.

Dogue de Bordeaux sitting down looking at camera

Training and Temperament

One of the most striking features of the Dogue de Bordeaux is their imposing size and physique. These dogs can weigh up to 150 pounds and have a short, dense coat that comes in shades of fawn, mahogany, or red. Their head is large and square, with a distinctive undershot jaw and wrinkles that give them a unique and endearing appearance.

Despite their formidable appearance, Dogues de Bordeaux are known for their affable and even-tempered nature. They are loyal and devoted to their families and make excellent guard dogs due to their natural protectiveness. However, it is important to socialize and train them properly from a young age to prevent unwanted aggressive behavior.

Training a Dogue de Bordeaux requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. These intelligent dogs are willing to learn and please their owners but can also be stubborn sometimes. It is important to establish yourself as the leader of the pack and set clear boundaries and rules. Training should focus on obedience, manners, and socialization to help the dog learn how to behave appropriately in various situations.

Grooming

Grooming a Dogue de Bordeaux is relatively low maintenance, as their short coat only requires weekly brushing to remove dead hair. They may drool and slobber due to their undershot jaw, so it is important to regularly clean their face and keep a towel nearby to wipe away any excess saliva. These dogs are also prone to ear infections, so it is important to regularly check and clean their ears to prevent any issues.

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a rare and fascinating breed with a rich history and a loyal, even-tempered personality. With proper training and grooming, these majestic dogs can make devoted and loving companions for the right owner.

All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. Please let us know if we made an error in the stats.

Breed FAQs

Can Dogue de Bordeauxs be apartment dogs?

The Dogue de Bordeaux needs room to run and play. That makes them difficult to keep in a small apartment.

Can Dogue de Bordeauxs be left alone?

While Dogue de Bordeauxs prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.

Are Dogue de Bordeauxs good with kids?

Dogue de Bordeauxs aren't a good breed for homes with kids. Training can help, but they don't do well with rowdy behavior.

Are Dogue de Bordeauxs friendly with strangers?

Dogue de Bordeauxs are very slow to warm up to strangers. They need a long period of exposure before they trust someone.

Do Dogue de Bordeauxs get along with other dogs?

Expect Dogue de Bordeauxs to have a hard time with other dogs. Socializing this breed can be a difficult process.

Do Dogue de Bordeauxs bark a lot?

As far as dogs go, Dogue de Bordeauxs bark an average amount. Expect barking to alert you, get attention, or react to strangers and other dogs.

Do Dogue de Bordeauxs shed a lot?

Dogue de Bordeauxs shed quite a bit. Brush them often to limit the hair on floors and clothing.

Do Dogue de Bordeauxs need a lot of grooming?

With a Dogue de Bordeaux you won't need to dedicate extra time to special grooming. Their coats are easy to care for.

Do Dogue de Bordeauxs need a lot of exercise?

Dogue de Bordeauxs don't need a ton of exercise. Some basic activity is enough to keep them healthy.

Are Dogue de Bordeauxs easy to train?

Although Dogue de Bordeauxs can be a challenge to train, they can learn with dedicated work or some professional help.

Can Dogue de Bordeauxs handle cold weather?

Although Dogue de Bordeauxs can handle cold weather when out with you, they may not want to stay out for long.

Can Dogue de Bordeauxs handle hot weather?

Be careful with Dogue de Bordeauxs in the heat. They don't do well in hot climates for long periods.

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