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First Impressions
Typical appearance of dogs belonging to the mastiff family. The muzzle is foreshortened and light amber eyes matching the coloring of the coat . The jaw is undershot together with the brow wrinkles lend the dog its characteristic scowl.
The History Of The Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as French Mastiff and the Bordeaux Bulldog, originated in France in the 4th century.
It ancestry dates back to the great mastiffs traveled across the Alps with the Roman legions. From the same bloodlines that became the Rottweiler, and with something of the Bulldog in its genes too.
They were bred to be fearless and aggressive and this goes against the breed's popularity to this day. Latterly some of this aggression has been bred out and they are enjoying a new found popularity.
Description Of The Dogue de Bordeaux
Ears are set well back on the head and are small for the dog's size. They are not altered. Tail is medium length and tapers. It is carried low and is not altered.
A short, stocky mastiff with a heavy, broad, wrinkled head. Top show males have a head circumference of 27 - 30 inches. The powerful jaw is undershot. The Dogue should sport a mask of black or red. Nostrils are open and the muzzle should be a maximum of 1/3 the total length of head.
The breed averages 23 - 30 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs around 80 - 100 pounds for bitches and 120 - 145 pounds for dogs.
Coat & Grooming
Very little grooming is required and is an average shedder.
Temperament
As stated earlier breeders have now tempered the aggressive nature of this dog.
Modern Bordeaux’s have an even, calm temperament. They are loyal loyal, patient and devoted to the family. They can be confrontational with strangers and make excellent watch and guard dogs. They tend towards aggressiveness with other dogs. They need to be socialized well with other animals from early puppy hood.
This is a breed that drools and snores. Males are not tolerate towards other males. They are gentle with children and family member, they do need an experienced handler and are not advised for the inexperienced.
Life Expectancy and Health
The average life span is around 10 - 12 years.
Reported health problems are hip dysplasia, bloat, bone cancer, thyroid problems and fungal or bacterial infections in their deep wrinkles.
It is not an easy dog to breed. Litters are small and birth by cesarean sections is often needed because of the puppies very large heads.
Please read our page on health problems by clicking here.
Preferred Environment and Exercise Requirements
This breed can survive life in an apartment if it is given plenty of exercise. They are very indoors and will be fine without a yard.
Summary
Practically unheard of in the US until 1988 when the movie Turner and Hooch introduced the breed. Can be fierce with other dogs and often too rough for small children. Snores & drools. Puppies should be available now in most parts of the United States.
:: Dogue de Bordeaux Training ::
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