Dogue de Bordeaux are large-sized dogs that are close to the Mastiff-type dog breed. These dogs feature a massive head, a muscular body, and a wrinkled face wearing a serious expression. Their bodies are covered with a smooth, short coat that comes in fawn color.
Dogue de Bordeaux are known to be devoted family dogs for all ages. Despite their size, these dogs are sweet and sensitive, and several families in the US love them as part of the family.
Dogue de Bordeaux Statistics
| Dog Breed Group | Working |
| Breed Size | Large |
| Height | 23-27 inches (male); 23-26 inches (female) |
| Weight | 110 pounds and up (male); 99 pounds and up (female) |
| Lifespan | 5-8 years |
Dogue de Bordeaux Ratings
| Energy level | |
| Exercise needs | |
| Requires attention | |
| Playfulness | |
| Trainability | |
| Shedding | |
| Grooming | |
| Friendly with family | |
| Friendly with kids | |
| Friendly with strangers | |
| Friendly with other dogs | |
| Prey Drive |
History
It’s hard to pinpoint the exact origin of Dogue de Bordeaux dogs. Their history goes way back to ancient times with very limited records.
One theory suggests that the descendants of this breed came from France. This happened when Julius Caesar was conquering lands during the first century BC. The dogs are believed to be Mastiff-type dogs and were utilized as war dogs and gladiators.
They were referred to as the “Bordeaux Mastiff” or the “Bordeaux Bulldog” for centuries. They came in two varieties, but when the smaller version, the Doguin, became instinct, the dogs were renamed to Dogue de Bordeaux.
The Dogue de Bordeaux spent most of their history as fighting dogs. But when industrialization slowly came, they were also slowly used as hunters, drafters, and guardians.
They were most especially known as guardians of noble estates during the 1700s. However, when the French Revolution came, these dogs were left with no home and owners.
The dogs disappeared for years until their first-recorded appearance in a Paris dog show in 1963. It wasn’t until 1959 that the dog breed was brought to the US.
However, it took 30 years before their popularity soared higher because of a comedy film. By 2008, the American Kennel Club registered the dog breed.
Temperament
Despite their large size, there isn’t anything to be afraid of these dogs. Dogue de Bordeaux are known to be affectionate, loyal, and courageous dogs. These dogs are usually calm, quiet, and relaxed unless provoked.
They are known to be wonderful family dogs. They can be great indoor dogs who would be happy to sit and lie down. They are loving and gentle towards children, so there is very little to worry about. However, supervision is still highly recommended, especially if you have toddlers.
They thrive for human companionship and attention. They also love outdoors if given a chance, so make sure to give him some space too.
The only problem you might face is their aggression towards other animals, especially dogs of the same sex. They don’t start fights, but they don’t back down either. So make sure to keep him on your side of the fence to prevent these things from happening.
With their stubbornness, training might come as a challenge. If there’s one thing you should remember, don’t be harsh. Instead, be firm and consistent with letting him know you’re in charge.
As puppies, the Dogue de Bordeaux dogs need to be socialized to get accustomed to new people, animals, sounds, and sights. This will also make them more well-rounded dogs.
Dogue de Bordeaux Care Requirements
- Nutrition: It’s essential to give your pooch a high-quality diet packed with all the vital nutrients – protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It’s also important not to overfeed, so he doesn’t get overweight, which increases the risk of getting diseases. If you prefer to give your dog commercial dog food, make sure to choose premium ones. These usually don’t contain fillers and other harmful additives that may cause your dog’s digestion problems. Include high-quality fresh meat if you want a home-cooked meal. You can serve this with cooked brown rice for added carbohydrates. Add in some fruits and vegetables too for sources of fiber.
- Grooming: Their coat sheds regularly and would require daily brushing if you don’t want to have dead hair all over your floor and furniture. Baths can be given once a month. However, you should pay much attention to the wrinkles on their face. Always check the folds and wipe it down with a towel regularly to remove any dirt. Ears should be cleaned regularly as well to prevent ear infection. Nails should be kept short as long nails will cause discomfort.
- Exercise: Like any other large-sized dog, Dogue de Bordeaux needs regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy. This also helps avoid strain on his bones and joints. An hour of the daily walk should suffice for them and probably a few minutes of running up and down the stairs. Swimming is an excellent exercise too if you want.
- Health: One of the most common health problems Dogue de Bordeaux face are bone diseases. This is mainly because of their size that puts a lot of stress on their short joints. So, watch out for diseases such as hip dysplasia as this may appear if you don’t give your dog the right care. It would be best if you also watched out for gastric dilation volvulus or bloating. Your dog’s meals should also be monitored to avoid this. Other issues you need to watch out are cancer, heart diseases, epilepsy, skin infections, and ear infections. Screening tests can be taken for some of these diseases, while others would require your keen observation of any changes in your dog’s behavior.
- Lifespan: The life expectancy of Dogue de Bordeaux is 5-8 years.
Famous Dogue de Bordeaux
- Hooch: The Dogue de Bordeaux from the movie Turner and Hooch
Fun Facts about Dogue de Bordeaux
- Dogue de Bordeaux was believed to have originated from the Bordeaux region of France.
- They used to come in two varieties: Doguin (smaller version) and Dogue (larger version).
- They were also called “Bordeaux Bulldog” and “Bordeaux Mastiff.”
- They were almost eliminated twice in history; the first was during World War II and the second during the French Revolution.
- They were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2008 only.