Dogue de Bordeaux
Powerful but affectionate, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a calm French mastiff known for loyalty, a steady presence at home, and a soft spot for its people.
With early training and sensible routines, this gentle guardian can fit into many households that want a big, devoted companion.
How the Dogue de Bordeaux ranks among other dog breeds.
About the Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a large, heavy-boned mastiff with a distinctive, expressive face and a quietly confident attitude. Many are devoted homebodies who prefer staying close to their people, offering watchful companionship rather than nonstop action.
This breed often does best with an owner who enjoys structure: short, consistent training, calm social exposure, and daily time together. Expect some drool and a protective streak, plus a dog that reads the room well.
When raised thoughtfully, they tend to be affectionate with family and politely reserved with strangers.
History of the Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux developed in France as a formidable, multipurpose mastiff shaped by the needs of working households and merchants.
Large guardian dogs had been present in the region for centuries, and local types were blended and refined around the port city of Bordeaux and the surrounding countryside.
In a busy trading region, a reliable protector that could handle strangers at the gate and livestock in the yard was prized. These early dogs were valued less for a uniform look and more for steady nerves, strength, and the ability to stay close to home.
Historically, these dogs were expected to do hard jobs. They guarded farms, wineries, and storefronts, deterred thieves, and sometimes helped move goods.
In rural areas, they could accompany hunters after wild boar and other tough quarry, relying on courage and a powerful grip.
The nickname French mastiff reflects that practical background: a dog built to protect, hold ground, and work alongside people rather than range far away.
As France changed, so did the breed’s place in society. During periods of upheaval, including the Revolution and later economic shifts, large guardian dogs could be lost when estates were broken up or households could not afford them.
Some Dogues were also used in the regrettable fighting pits common to many powerful breeds of the era, a chapter that influenced selection for toughness but not necessarily for sociability.
Over time, interest grew in preserving a more predictable temperament for living and working around communities.
By the late nineteenth century, enthusiasts began describing the Dogue de Bordeaux more consistently, noting hallmarks like the massive head, short coat, and compact power. As dog shows became popular, breeders tried to stabilize both appearance and behavior.
The twentieth century brought new challenges: war and food shortages reduced breeding stock dramatically, and the breed became rare in its homeland.
Dedicated owners and careful breeding choices helped rebuild numbers and keep the Dogue’s calmer, family-oriented side in focus.
Today, the Dogue de Bordeaux is best known as a loyal companion and property guardian, still carrying the dignity of a working mastiff. Modern lines are typically bred to be stable, people-attached dogs that can relax indoors and step up when something feels off.
While they remain less common than many other large breeds, they have gained admirers worldwide for their affectionate nature and distinctive look. Responsible breeding and early socialization are especially important to preserve the best of this breed’s heritage.
Physical Characteristics and General Care
The Dogue de Bordeaux is unmistakably sturdy, with a broad chest, thick neck, and a head that looks almost oversized for its body. The coat is short and close-lying, usually in warm shades of fawn, and the loose skin around the face can form soft wrinkles.
Many individuals drool, especially after drinking or when excited, so keeping a towel handy can make daily life easier. Because they mature slowly, their bodies benefit from sensible routines rather than sudden bursts of intense activity.
General care is straightforward but consistent. A quick brushing helps remove loose hair and keeps the coat shiny, and occasional baths are usually enough unless your dog is a dedicated puddle-finder.
Pay attention to skin folds by gently wiping and drying them, and keep ears and nails on a regular maintenance schedule. Like many heavy, short-muzzled dogs, Dogues can be sensitive to heat, so cooler walk times and access to water and shade are smart habits.
Exercise needs are often moderate: relaxed walks, short play sessions, and puzzle-style enrichment typically suit them better than endless running. Because of their strength, leash manners and polite greetings should start early and stay rewarding, not harsh.
Many thrive on a predictable home routine and a comfortable place to nap near the family.
For overall well-being, partner with a veterinarian on an appropriate diet and watch for signs of discomfort, fatigue, or overheating, since early attention can make a big difference.
Coat & Grooming: Brush weekly with a rubber curry or soft bristle brush, wipe and dry facial folds, and keep nails neatly trimmed.
Shedding: Moderate shedding means short hairs can collect on furniture and clothing, with heavier shedding during some seasons.
Exercise Needs: Daily, low-impact activity like leisurely walks, gentle play, and short training games, with extra rest in warm weather, is typical.
General Health: Large-breed joints, heart concerns, skin fold irritation, and heat sensitivity are common topics to discuss with your veterinarian.
Expected Lifespan: Often shorter-lived than smaller breeds, but thoughtful breeding, lean condition, and routine care can support comfortable senior years.
First-Time Owner Tips
First-time owners can do well with a Dogue de Bordeaux if they enjoy calm leadership and are ready for a strong, heavy dog. Start socialization early with friendly people, steady dogs, and everyday sights, keeping experiences positive and unforced.
Because this breed can be naturally protective, teaching loose-leash walking and a reliable settle cue helps them make good choices when visitors arrive.
Daily life is easier when you plan for the basics: sturdy gear, non-slip footing in busy areas, and a simple cleaning routine for drool. Keep training sessions short and consistent, using food, praise, and play to build cooperation.
These dogs often bond closely, so practice calm alone-time from the beginning to reduce stress. If you are unsure about nutrition, exercise pace, or any health changes, check in with your veterinarian and adjust your plan early.
- Teach leash manners early so their strength stays manageable on everyday walks.
- Set up a drool routine with towels by the water bowl and wipes near entryways.
- Reward calm greetings and use a bed or mat cue when the doorbell rings.
- Choose durable, well-fitted gear and safe chews designed for powerful jaws.
- Keep routines joint-friendly with good traction at home, trimmed nails, and a lean body condition.
Monthly Costs to Expect
Required costs usually center on food and routine basics. A large, muscular Dogue de Bordeaux typically eats more than many family dogs, so food and treats add up, and most owners also budget for parasite prevention year-round.
It helps to set aside a little each month for routine veterinary checkups and replacing big essentials like beds or sturdy leashes.
Optional or variable costs depend on your choices and local prices. Most grooming can be done at home, but professional baths or nail trims may be convenient. Training classes, enrichment toys, and occasional pet sitting can raise the monthly spend.
Some households pay for insurance, while others build a dedicated savings cushion for unexpected care.
Food & Treats: Required: about $90 to $200 per month, depending on food quality, treat use, and your dog’s appetite.
Grooming: Optional/Variable: about $15 to $90 per month if you groom at home, or more with frequent professional services.
Preventatives & Routine Care: Required: about $30 to $90 per month for routine preventatives and basic wellness budgeting, guided by your veterinarian and region.
Insurance / Savings: Optional/Variable: about $0 to $120 per month for insurance premiums or a personal savings cushion, based on coverage choices.
Training / Enrichment: Optional/Variable: about $20 to $150 per month for classes, occasional private help, and enrichment toys, depending on goals.
Dogue de Bordeaux FAQs
Are Dogue de Bordeaux good with families?
Many are affectionate and steady at home, especially when raised with respectful handling. Because they are powerful, supervision around small children and teaching calm greetings helps everyone stay safe.
Do Dogue de Bordeaux drool a lot?
Yes, drooling is common, particularly after drinking, eating, or during excitement. A towel by the water bowl and quick wipe-downs usually keep it manageable.
How much exercise does a Dogue de Bordeaux need?
Most do best with moderate, low-impact daily activity such as walks, gentle play, and short training sessions. They often work in bursts and then relax, and many need extra care in warm weather.
Are Dogue de Bordeaux easy to train?
They can be cooperative and people-focused, but they are not usually a rapid-fire obedience breed. Consistent rules, early socialization, and reward-based training work well, and professional coaching can help.
Do they get along with other dogs and pets?
Many can, but it depends on the individual and early experiences. Controlled introductions, ongoing social practice, and thoughtful management help set everyone up for success.
Can a Dogue de Bordeaux live in an apartment?
Often, yes, if you can handle their size and provide daily walks, training, and a quiet place to rest. Elevator access, heat management, and neighbor-friendly manners matter more than having a big yard.
What health concerns are common in the breed?
As with many large, short-muzzled dogs, owners commonly discuss joint strain, heart concerns, skin fold care, and heat sensitivity. Choose responsible breeding, maintain a healthy body condition, and talk with your veterinarian about routine monitoring.