Dogue de Bordeaux: The Ultimate Guide to the Grand French Mastiff

 Why Does the Dogue de Bordeaux Win so Many Hearts?

Some of the breeds of dogs you will notice, and some of the breeds you will remember. The Dogue de Bordeaux, the traditional French Mastiff with its huge head, wrinkled expression, and poignant eyes, is squarely in the latter. This breed is called the one with a kind and kind soul, strong construction, and strong devotion to its owner and owners alike, and it has been capturing the hearts of families, farmers, and admirers of dogs throughout the ages. Dogue is a loving companion, even though it has a formidable appearance, and it bonds with its owners.

It is time to learn all about the Dogue de Bordeaux: its origin, character, requirements during training, grooming schedule, typical ailments, and what it is actually like to make such an impressive and loyal companion a part of your family.

History of the Dogue de Bordeaux

Where Did the Dogue de Bordeaux Come From?

The Dogue de Bordeaux goes deep in French ground. It can be traced back to the 14th century and is one of the oldest breeds of mastiffs in Europe. These dogs were originally kept mostly in the Bordeaux region in southwestern France as strong working dogs that could have multifaceted responsibilities of different natures.

They were used in medieval times to guard estates, secure the farms, and guard livestock against predators. They were very valuable not only in guarding but also in boar hunting because of their bravery. and hauling heavy loads. Later on, butchers and cattle drivers relied on the Dogue’s strength to manage difficult farm animals.

Despite changing times, one characteristic remained constant: their unwavering loyalty and protective instincts. When needed, a Dogue would put its life on the line to protect its family or territory. Those traits have endured to this day.

How Did They Become So Well-Known in Modern Times?

The Dogue de Bordeaux gained international popularity thanks in part to Hollywood. The lovable, drooling canine star of “Turner & Hooch” (1989) introduced millions of viewers to the breed’s charm. Hooch, played by a real Dogue, was stubborn, loyal, destructive, hilarious—and unforgettable. The film spotlighted the breed’s enormous personality and helped fuel the desire for large, affectionate dogs.

However, while the movie showcased the Dogue’s fun-loving side, it didn’t fully reveal the breed’s quiet dignity, natural protectiveness, or need for patient, dedicated training. The real Dogue de Bordeaux is far more complex than a comedic character, and understanding its true nature is essential for anyone considering this remarkable dog.

Physical traits of Dogue de Bordeaux

What Does the Dogue de Bordeaux Look Like?

Not many dogs have as eye-catching an appearance as the Dogue de Bordeaux. This breed is powerful with its muscular structure, huge head, and unique wrinkles, which give it a sense of power and confidence.

Size and Weight

• Males:
  
  • Height: 24–27 inches at the shoulder
    
  • Weight: 110–145 pounds
    
• Females:
  
  • Height: 23–26 inches
    
  • Weight: 99–120 pounds
    

Their size requires careful consideration, particularly in terms of diet, physical activity, and arthritis.

Head and Expression

The Dogue’s head is one of the largest (proportionally) in the canine world. Its broad skull, wrinkled forehead, and expressive eyes create a look of both wisdom and gentleness. Although it is a very serious-looking dog, its eyes are usually well-meaning and kind.

Coat and Color

The breed has a short, dense coat that comes in various shades of fawn, from light to dark mahogany. The coat is easy to maintain, but it sheds moderately year-round.

Chest markings or white patches may appear on the tips of toes or chest, though the coat is typically solid.

Drooling

One characteristic that dog lovers either embrace or shy away from is the Dogue’s famous drool. The breed’s loose lips and jowls give it a perpetual drooling habit, especially after eating, drinking, or exercising. Keeping towels handy becomes part of the daily routine for most owners.

Temperament and Personality

What Is the Dogue de Bordeaux Really Like?

When you first meet this breed, the combination of massive size and serious expression might lead you to believe the Dogue is stern or aloof. In reality, the Dogue de Bordeaux is one of the most loving and affectionate family companions.

Loyal to the Core

A Dogue becomes attached to the family. As soon as they are fixed, they are implacably faithful parents—peaceful, self-confident, and ever-vigilant. They are not violent in nature, and their nature of protection is natural. They would like to watch and then take action.

Gentle Giants

Though Dogues may seem intimidating to look at, they are known to be very gentle with a patient nature. They may be the best friends of children with proper socialization since they are usually tolerant, loving, and eager to be close to their family.

Reserved With Strangers

Dogues can be reserved when it comes to strangers. They are not generally violent, although they will definitely want to take a moment to evaluate new people or places before they can relax. Fearfulness or excessive suspicion can be avoided by early exposure to new people and situations.

Moderate Energy Level

It is not a hyperactive breed. Although they are going out on walks, having playtime, and challenging their minds daily, they do not move all the time. After exercise, they are more than happy to lounge by your side.

Caring for a Dogue de Bordeaux

Do Dogues de Bordeaux Need a Lot of Exercise?

The Dogue is a large but surprisingly low-energy breed. They have regular, moderate exercise, and nothing too hard, particularly in hot seasons.

Appropriate Exercise Includes:

• Daily walks
  
• Short hikes
  
• Gentle play sessions
  
• Fetch
  
• Nose work or scent games
  
• Puzzle toys
  
• Mental enrichment activities
  

Avoid:

• Long-distance running
  
• High-intensity agility
  
• Bruising is experienced in the joints
  
• Working in the heat or the humidity
  

Due to a short muzzle (brachycephalic structure), Dogues may have trouble with the ability to breathe during hot or humid weather. Their temperature should always be checked to avoid getting overheated.

Raising the Dogue de Bordeaux

Is the Dogue de Bordeaux Easy to Train?

This breed is intelligent and willing to learn, but it also has an independent streak. Dogues respond best to firm, consistent, patient training based on positive reinforcement.

Traits That Affect Training

• Ready to satisfy: They are willing to satisfy their owners.
  
• Strong-willed: They can oppose authority in case of unclear rules.
  
• Sensitive: They can be closed down due to harsh corrections.
  
• Protective: They should be socialized at an early age to know the difference between real threats and normal situations.
  

Critical Skills to Teach:

• Sit, stay, come
  
• Leash manners
  
• Calm greetings
  
• Meeting other dogs politely
  
• Respect for boundaries
  
• Being comfortable around others
  

The training must begin in puppyhood in order to avoid the problems with behavior in adult life. Socialization at an early age is necessary. A properly trained Dogue is self-confident, stable, and fun to be around.

Dogue de Bordeaux Behavior Traits

What Common Behaviors Should Owners Be Prepared For?

Protectiveness

Dogues are natural guardians. When a person goes near the home, they will bark or alert people. With proper training, this behavior remains appropriate and controlled.

Drooling

Drool on your clothes, furniture, walls, and floors will be part of everyday life.

Attachment

Dogues can be clingy. They prefer being near their humans at all times and dislike long periods of isolation.

Gentle Play

They usually play softly, especially with children, but their size requires supervision.

Health Issues in the Dogue de Bordeaux

Why Is the Dogue de Bordeaux’s Lifespan Shorter Than Other Breeds?

Like many giant breeds, the Dogue’s lifespan is relatively short—typically 5–8 years. Their massive size places extra stress on bones, joints, the heart, and other systems. Still, many Dogues live healthy, happy lives with proper care.

Below are the most common health issues associated with the breed.

Hereditary Hyperkeratosis of the footpad

What Is It?

A hereditary disorder, it is characterized by abnormally thick and hard footpads.

Symptoms:

• Cracked pads
  
• Bleeding
  
• Pain
  
• Difficulty walking
  
• Lameness
  

Management Includes:

• Moisturizing foot soaks
  
• Regular keratin removal
  
• Medicated creams
  
• Antibiotics for infection
  

It has no cure, but supportive care helps to alleviate discomfort.

Hip Dysplasia

One complication that is very prevalent in large breeds is improper formation of the hip joint, which leads to pain and arthritis.

Symptoms:

• Difficulty rising
  
• Stiff walking
  
• Bunny-hopping run
  
• Aversion to playing or climbing up the stairs
  

Management Options:

• Weight control
  
• Supplements
  
• Anti-inflammatory medications
  
• Low-impact exercise
  
• Surgery for severe cases
  

Elbow Dysplasia

Just like hip dysplasia, but in the elbows, and it leads to lameness and degeneration of the joints.

Bloat and Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)

Why Is GDV So Dangerous?

This is a life-threatening disorder that is a result of the stomach being filled with gases, and at times it twists and cuts off blood. Large, deep-chested breeds like the Dogue are especially at risk.

Symptoms Include:

• Restlessness
  
• Distended abdomen
  
• Drooling
  
• Gagging without vomiting
  
• Collapsing
  

Immediate veterinary care is essential.

Prevention:

• Slow-feeder bowls
  
• Multiple small meals
  
• No exercise near mealtime
  
• Ask your vet about gastropexy
  

Eye Conditions

• Ectropion (outward-rolling eyelids)
  
• Entropion (inward-rolling eyelids)
  

Dogs’ expressive, droopy eyes can be prone to:

Both can lead to irritation and require treatment or surgery.

Skin Issues

The wrinkled skin entraps moisture and debris.

Solutions Include:

• Regular wrinkle cleaning
  
• Thorough drying after baths
  
• Using pet-safe wipes in the fold areas
  

Respiratory Problems

Dogues might not adapt well to heat and hard work due to the existence of a short muzzle. Do not overdo the exercise during hot weather.

Feeding the Dogue de Bordeaux

What Should You Feed a Dogue de Bordeaux?

Large and muscular, the Dogue requires balanced nutrition with moderate to high protein levels (20–30%) and joint-supporting ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin.

Life-Stage Appropriate Food

Always feed:

• Puppy food for large breeds
  
• Adult food after 12–24 months
  
• Senior formulas in later years
  

How Much Should You Feed Them?

This depends on age, weight, and activity level. Start with the use of packaging guidelines, and then go to your veterinarian.

Nutritional Tips

Beneficial supplements include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (for coat and joints)
  
• Joint supplements
  
• Probiotics (for digestive health)
  

Ask your vet before adding supplements.

Grooming the Dogue de Bordeaux

Do Dogues Require a Lot of Grooming?

Their coats are short and not that demanding; however, their wrinkles and drool need regular attention.

Skin Care Routine

• Clean wrinkles regularly
  
• Dry thoroughly after bathing
  
• Wash with gentle dog shampoos
  
• Avoid excessive baths
  
• Use dog-safe sunscreen for exposed skin
  

Coat Care

It is normally sufficient to brush every week to keep the shedding at bay.

Eye Care

Watch for:

• Redness
  
• Discharge
  
• Cloudiness
  
• Tear staining
  

Wipe them with a solution, which should have been tested by a veterinarian.

Ear Care

Check weekly for:

• Odor
  
• Wax
  
• Redness
  
• Moisture
  

Use gentle cleaning solutions recommended by your vet.

Nail Care

Trim nails regularly to prevent overgrowth.

Dogues de Bordeaux Fun Zones

Due to their medium energy level, Dogues like mentally stimulating games with low impact, like

• Nose work
  
• Easy agility exercises
  
• Scent games
  
• Fetch
  
• Swimming
  
• Tug-of-war
  
• Short hikes
  
• Puzzle toys
  
• Dock diving (for athletic individuals)
  

Living with a Dogue de Bordeaux

Dogue de Bordeaux: Good Family Dog?

Yes—when so trained and socialized. They are:

• Loving
  
• Protective
  
• Patient with children
  
• Loyal
  
• Gentle indoors
  

Nonetheless, their power and size demand proper ownership

What Kind of Home Is Best?

Ideal homes include:

• Large living spaces
  
• A fenced yard
  
• Average exercise habit
  
• Families ready for training
  
• Owners not bothered by drool
  

The apartments can be used, though they should be committed to exercise and mental stimulation every day.

Before acquiring one, it is important to consider the following factors:

• They do not last long compared to other breeds
  
• They need careful training
  
• They drool heavily
  
• They have high health and food expenses
  
• They associate well and do not like solitude
  

Dogue de Bordeaux FAQs

Final Thoughts: Is the Dogue de Bordeaux the Right Dog for You?

The Dogue de Bordeaux is not like any other breed—heavy, proud, loving, and extremely faithful. They are great companions to the owners who know what a giant working breed needs, through their level-headed eyes and constant presence. They would suit no place, but the right home could not do without them.

The Dogue de Bordeaux has been winning hearts throughout the world since its early French beginnings due to its fact that they are affectionate. If you’re ready for the slobber, the weight, the wrinkles, and the devotion of a lifetime, this majestic breed may just be the perfect match.