
| AKC Group: | Working |
| A.K.A.: | Bordeaux Bulldog, French Mastiff |
| Functions: | Companion |
| Year of Origin: | Ancient |
| Country of Origin: | France |
| Life Span (yr): | 10 - 12 |
| Colors: | Fawn |
| Height (Inch): | 23 - 27 |
| Weight (lb): | 99 - 150 |
| Size: | Very Large |
| Hair Length: | Short |
| Energy: | |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: | |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: | |
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| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
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Appearance:
Massive and muscular, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a brachycephalic molossoid variety of dog. This means that he has a short face and looks like a Mastiff. Although he is large, he is also stocky. His head is bulky and his expression is serious. He has oval eyes that are spaced far apart. They range from hazel to brown in color. His ears are rather small, especially given the size of his head. They are usually at least a shade or two darker in color than the rest of his body. The ears have a rounded tip and are set high on his head. The coat of the Dogue de Bordeaux is very soft and silky to the touch.
Temperament:
Watchful and brave, the Dogue de Bordeaux is always on guard. He can keep an eye on his home and his family without becoming overly aggressive. He is a great friend to the members of his family as well and is very loving towards them. He is amazing in stressful situations – he can keep calm and even keeled, despite what is going on around him. He has a high level of self confidence and some people may be nervous around him because of his size – but it is not necessary to fret. The male Dogue de Bordeaux may try to assert his dominance – so it may not be beneficial to have two males in the same household.
Health:
Hip dysplasia is frequently seen in the Dogue de Bordeaux – as it is with almost all large breeds. It is a painful condition that may eventually limit his mobility; however, by watching his weight (as much as possible for a breed that can reach 140 – 140 pounds), and by preventing excessive exercise and jumping from heights its symptoms can be reduced. Heart disease and epilepsy are other common health issues. The Dogue de Bordeaux should visit his veterinarian for routine check-ups and to receive his annual vaccinations. His veterinarian will be able to prevent many heath conditions from worsening – especially if they are caught early enough.
Maintenance:
Caring for the noble looking Dogue de Bordeaux is easy. He simply needs to be brushed to keep his soft coat looking healthy. Without keeping him clean and well-kept he may develop mange in the worst cases. However, most responsible owners would never let him his grooming get so out of hand. He should get plenty of exercise. Doing so will keep him fit and healthy and reduce the chances that he will have heart disease. He loves to go on walks and to swim. In fact, he will even go for a dip in a swimming pool if given the opportunity.
