A little look at life together.
Getting to know the Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a massive French mastiff breed with a fawn-to-red coat, substantial facial folds, and a loyal reputation. Facial-fold care and drool cleanup belong in the routine alongside the practical needs of a very large dog.
An everyday routine
Plan a daily mix of walks, play, and rest. The amount that works for a particular dog depends on age, fitness, experience, and temperament.
Coat care to plan for
A relatively straightforward coat still needs routine checks, appropriate brushing, and attention to nails and teeth. Ask a groomer to demonstrate tools that suit this coat.
Before deciding, meet the individual dog and ask about their history, handling preferences, and current routine. Breed tendencies are a starting point, not a promise about personality.
Dogue de Bordeaux questions
How big does a full-grown Dogue de Bordeaux get?
Very big. Males stand 23.5 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh at least 110 pounds, and females stand 23 to 26 inches and weigh at least 99 pounds. The head is, in proportion, the largest of any dog breed.
How long does a Dogue de Bordeaux live?
Typically 5 to 8 years, and dogs that reach 7 and older are celebrated. These are breed-wide figures, so talk to your vet about your own dog.
Does a Dogue de Bordeaux drool a lot?
Yes. The breed is well known for drool, and it sits at the very top of the drooling scale. The facial wrinkles need to be cleaned and dried at least weekly, and sometimes daily. Keep towels handy.
Do Dogues de Bordeaux shed?
Yes. The short coat sheds heavily all year. A rubber curry or shedding blade catches loose hair, a full bath roughly every four weeks keeps the coat fresh, and a wipe with a damp towel helps in between.
Is the Dogue de Bordeaux the dog from Turner & Hooch?
Yes. Hooch was a Dogue de Bordeaux. The breed was barely known outside France before the 1989 comedy, in which Tom Hanks plays a detective paired with one, brought it a worldwide audience. The name means Mastiff of Bordeaux, and the breed has competed in the Working Group in the United States since 2008.
Is a Dogue de Bordeaux a good family dog?
With the right home, yes. The breed is very affectionate with family and very protective, and more moderate with young children. It is a calm, balanced guardian that is watchful without being aggressive. Early socialization and firm, gentle training are a must with a dog this size.
How much exercise does a Dogue de Bordeaux need?
Less than you might expect, and gently at first. The breed has moderate energy, and young Dogues should stick to low-impact exercise until at least 18 months to protect growing bones and joints. Swimming is a good activity at any age. Your vet can help you set a plan for your dog.
What health questions should I ask about a Dogue de Bordeaux?
Bloat, heart disease, cancer, orthopedic problems in the hips and elbows, and epilepsy are concerns in the breed, and hip, elbow, cardiac and shoulder evaluations are recommended tests. Ask breeders for those results, and bring the same list to your vet.
