Introduction

The Dogue de Bordeaux, often called the Bordeaux Mastiff or French Mastiff, is a majestic and muscular breed with deep roots in France. Historically, this formidable canine served as a dedicated working dog, guarding estates, protecting livestock, and even lending a powerful hand in hunting large game. Tracing its lineage back to the 14th century, the breed earned widespread affection in the Bordeaux region, where it remains a beloved symbol of strength and loyalty.

Sporting an impressive stature, the Dogue de Bordeaux boasts a broad, commanding head marked by a signature wrinkled forehead. Males typically tower between 24 and 27 inches at the shoulder, with females slightly more modest at 23 to 26 inches. When it comes to weight, males range from a hefty 110 to 145 pounds, while females settle comfortably between 99 and 120 pounds.

You may remember the Dogue de Bordeaux from the 1989 Tom Hanks classic Turner & Hooch, a film that propelled this striking breed into the hearts of dog lovers and families craving a gentle giant.

Caring for a Dogue de Bordeaux

Known for their serene and affectionate personalities, Dogues de Bordeaux embody calmness and unwavering loyalty. They form strong bonds with their families and tend to be patient, loving companions, especially around children.

While they cherish their daily walks and moments of play, Dogues aren’t hyperactive dogs. However, engaging their minds with interactive games like fetch is key to keeping boredom at bay and stimulating their intelligent nature.

Their grooming needs are fairly simple thanks to their short, dense coat, which benefits from weekly brushing to manage shedding. Be prepared, though—this breed is notorious for drooling, particularly after meals or drinks, so keep a towel nearby to keep things tidy.

Dogue de Bordeaux Health Issues

Though generally healthy, Dogues de Bordeaux’s large size means their lifespan tends to be around 5 to 8 years. Like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain hereditary and health challenges, so thoughtful pet parents often consider pet insurance to help ease potential medical expenses.

Hereditary Footpad Hyperkeratosis

This condition causes the footpad skin to thicken abnormally. What starts as smooth pads can harden and develop painful cracks or splits, leading to discomfort, lameness, and an increased risk of infection. Severe cases can interfere with walking.

Signs usually emerge in puppies between 4 and 6 months old. Though there is no cure, management includes foot soaks, removal of excess keratin, topical creams to heal cracks, and antibiotics if infections set in.

Hip Dysplasia

Common in large breeds like the Dogue de Bordeaux, hip dysplasia is a joint disorder where the hip socket develops abnormally, causing pain and stiffness.

Pet parents can aid their dog’s comfort by maintaining a healthy weight, encouraging gentle exercise, and administering anti-inflammatory medications when needed. In severe situations, surgery might be the best option.

Elbow Dysplasia

This condition mirrors hip dysplasia but affects the elbow joint. It can cause lameness, joint pain, and arthritis. Treatment may involve pain management, weight control, or surgery to correct joint abnormalities.

Bloat and Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

Bloat is a critical condition where the dog’s stomach fills with gas and may twist, resulting in gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), a life-threatening emergency. Watch for symptoms such as:

• Excessive drooling
• Repeated retching or gagging
• Swollen or distended abdomen
• Loss of appetite

If your Dogue de Bordeaux exhibits any of these signs, seek veterinary care immediately.

Eye Conditions

With their large, expressive, droopy eyes, Dogues de Bordeaux can encounter issues such as:

• Ectropion: eyelids rolling outward
• Entropion: eyelids rolling inward

Regular veterinary eye exams, lubricating drops, and surgical correction if needed can keep these conditions in check.

Skin Issues

The breed’s loose, wrinkled skin is vulnerable to irritation, especially in warm, humid climates. Their skin folds can harbor bacteria or allergens, which may trigger infections. Keep these areas clean and dry by regularly wiping with pet-safe wipes and bathing as recommended.

Respiratory Challenges

Thanks to their short muzzle, Dogues de Bordeaux may struggle with breathing difficulties, particularly in hot weather. To protect your dog, avoid strenuous activities during peak heat and provide plenty of shade and water.

What to Feed a Dogue de Bordeaux

Supporting the muscular build of a Dogue de Bordeaux calls for a diet rich in moderate to high protein—ideally between 20 and 30%. Choosing food fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin helps maintain healthy joints and mobility. Always opt for formulas tailored to your dog’s life stage—whether puppy, adult, or senior.

Consult your veterinarian to select the best nutritional plan tailored specifically to your Dogue’s needs.

How to Feed a Dogue de Bordeaux

Feeding this breed is about balance and routine. Adult Dogues thrive on two meals per day, while puppies benefit from three to four smaller meals daily. Establish consistent mealtimes to help manage portions and support training efforts.

Using slow-feed bowls or puzzle feeders engages your dog mentally while slowing eating speed, reducing the risk of bloat or GDV. Avoid exercising immediately before or after meals to further safeguard their health.

How Much Should You Feed a Dogue de Bordeaux?

Individual requirements depend on factors like age, activity level, and metabolism. While vet guidance is crucial, feeding instructions on your dog food packaging are a useful starting point. Adjust portions as needed based on your dog’s weight and lifestyle.

Use a measuring cup to ensure accurate portions rather than free-feeding, which can encourage overeating and weight gain.

Nutritional Tips for Dogues de Bordeaux

Beyond high-quality food, certain supplements can offer targeted support:

• Glucosamine and chondroitin: Enhance joint flexibility and reduce discomfort, essential for large breeds susceptible to joint issues.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Sourced from fish oils, these boost coat shine and reinforce immune function.
• Probiotics: Promote digestive health by maintaining balanced gut bacteria and supporting immunity.

Always discuss supplements with your veterinarian before introducing them to your Dogue’s diet.

Dogue de Bordeaux Personality and Temperament

The Dogue de Bordeaux’s gentle giant reputation is well-earned. Calm, affectionate, and incredibly loyal, they make devoted family members. Proper early socialization helps them flourish around children and other pets.

They enjoy daily strolls and play but aren’t demanding in terms of exercise. A moderate activity level keeps them happy and balanced.

Renowned for their gentle disposition, Dogues de Bordeaux are patient and loving with family, especially with kids, making them exceptional companions.

Dogue de Bordeaux Behavior

Thanks to their protective lineage, Dogues often alert their families to strangers by barking. Well-structured training can help manage this tendency.

Comprehensive early socialization is essential to curb shyness or timidity. Introducing puppies to diverse people, animals, and environments encourages confident and friendly behavior.

Despite their size, Dogues adapt well to a variety of living situations, including apartment life, as long as they receive ample exercise and mental stimulation.

Dogue de Bordeaux Training

Their steadfast loyalty motivates many Dogues to please, but their protective instincts can make them cautious. Training requires patience, consistency, and a positive touch.

• Begin with basic commands like sit, stay, and come, using consistent positive reinforcement.
• Socialize your Dogue early to boost confidence around people and other dogs.
• Leash training is crucial to manage their strength and ensure safe, enjoyable walks.
• Teach them to distinguish between familiar visitors and strangers, rewarding calm responses.
• Remain patient and composed during training; avoid frustration and use gentle encouragement.
• Keep training sessions brief and engaging to suit their moderate energy levels.

Fun Activities for Dogues de Bordeaux

• Navigating agility courses
• Scent detection and nose work classes
• Swimming sessions
• Engaging games of fetch or tug-of-war
• Puzzle toys to challenge their minds
• Leisurely hikes
• Dock diving adventures

Dogue de Bordeaux Grooming Guide

Dogues sport a short, dense coat that is straightforward to maintain. While they do shed, it’s generally moderate compared to longer-haired breeds.

Be prepared for frequent drooling, particularly after meals or drinks. Keeping a towel handy will be essential, along with regular cleaning of their facial wrinkles to maintain comfort and hygiene.

Skin Care

With pronounced wrinkles and a short coat, proper skin care is critical:

• Wrinkle Care: Moisture and debris can accumulate in folds, risking irritation or infection. Clean and dry these areas regularly with pet-safe wipes, especially on the face, neck, and body folds.
• Bathing: Use a gentle dog-specific shampoo when bathing, but avoid over-bathing to preserve natural oils. Consult your vet about appropriate bathing frequency. Always dry your Dogue thoroughly after baths or moisture exposure, focusing on skin folds.
• Sun Protection: Their short coat offers little defense from UV rays. Use dog-safe sunscreen on exposed skin during prolonged outdoor time in sunny weather.

Coat Care

Maintain their smooth coat with weekly brushing to remove loose hairs. Professional grooming isn’t usually necessary since their coat doesn’t grow long or require trimming, but nail trims and ear care may benefit from a groomer’s touch.

Eye Care

Keep an eye out for redness, tear staining, cloudiness, or unusual discharge. Gently clean tear-stained areas with a damp cloth or vet-approved solutions, avoiding contact with the eyes themselves.

Handle eye cleaning with care as their eyes are sensitive; rough treatment can cause discomfort or injury.

Ear Care

Regularly inspect ears for redness, swelling, excess wax, foul odor, or discharge—all signs of infection.

Some Dogues, especially those with floppy ears, may need occasional cleaning with vet-recommended solutions and cotton balls to prevent wax buildup and moisture retention.

After baths or swimming, gently towel-dry the ears to prevent bacterial or yeast growth. If your dog shows frequent scratching or head shaking, consult a vet promptly to avoid worsening infections.

Considerations for Pet Parents

Dogue de Bordeaux thrives best in homes with ample indoor space and a secure, fenced yard for safe exploration. These sizable dogs crave companionship and interactive playtime, often forming deep bonds with their families. Prolonged periods of solitude may lead to destructive behaviors.

Their moderate energy suits relaxed lifestyles, complemented by leisurely walks and play. While grooming is manageable, expect to dedicate time to wiping drool and maintaining skin health.

Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are crucial for harmonious behavior. With devoted care, a Dogue de Bordeaux becomes a steadfast and loving member of the family.

Are Dogues de Bordeaux a good family dog?

Absolutely! Dogues de Bordeaux are affectionate, loyal, and gentle giants. When socialized properly from a young age, they thrive in homes with children and other pets.

Are Dogues de Bordeaux high-maintenance?

They have moderate maintenance needs. Their coat requires straightforward grooming, and their energy is manageable. However, owners should be prepared for regular drool cleanup and attentive skin fold care.

How big do Dogues de Bordeaux get?

These impressive dogs stand between 23 and 27 inches tall and can weigh over 100 pounds, embodying true canine grandeur.