Dogue de Bordeaux

Dogue de Bordeaux dog

Massive French mastiff known for its strength, broad head, and devoted nature.

Size Weight Height Lifespan
Giant Over 100 lbs 23 - 27 inches 5 - 8 years
(These are estimates and may vary.)

Origin: France



Own a Dogue de Bordeaux? Share what activities they enjoy to help other dog owners.

Running Digging Swimming Exploring Playing with Toys Obedience Training Tracking Herding Fetch Hiking Socializing Tug Of War Frisbee Chewing Agility Training Cuddling Guarding Hunting

Know a Dogue de Bordeaux? Share their personality traits to help other dog owners.

Clever Protective Affectionate Stubborn Confident Fearless Friendly Docile Energetic Calm Patient Aggressive Gentle Sociable Adaptable Playful Independent Clever Agile Loyal

May be a good fit if you:

  • Are looking for a breed that generally does well with children.
  • Want a dog that generally gets along well with other dogs.
  • Are a first-time dog owner looking for a relatively approachable breed.

Things to consider:

  • This breed may be less suited to smaller living spaces.

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a French mastiff with a long history as a powerful working and guarding dog. Large mastiff-type dogs existed in France for centuries, although claims tracing the modern breed unchanged to a particular ancient population go beyond the surviving evidence. By the 19th century, dogs recognizable as Bordeaux mastiffs were used for guarding estates, protecting livestock, pulling heavy loads, and handling large animals. Some were also involved historically in blood sports, including contests with other animals. Regional varieties once existed, with dogs associated with Bordeaux eventually becoming the surviving standardized type. The breed appeared at early French dog exhibitions during the 1860s, and formal standards developed later. Both World Wars were devastating to the population, and numbers became dangerously low in France. Dedicated breeders rebuilt the Dogue during the second half of the 20th century. International awareness increased dramatically after a Dogue de Bordeaux named Beasley appeared alongside Tom Hanks in the 1989 film "Turner & Hooch." The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 2008. Its enormous head and muscular body reflect its historical need for physical power, while modern breeding has emphasized its role as a stable household guardian and companion.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dogue de Bordeaux

The Dogue de Bordeaux is not generally considered hypoallergenic. Individual allergy reactions can vary.

The Dogue de Bordeaux tends to have a moderate level of shedding.

The Dogue de Bordeaux generally has relatively manageable grooming needs.

The Dogue de Bordeaux generally has a lower energy level and may prefer a calmer routine.

The Dogue de Bordeaux generally has lower exercise needs, though daily activity remains important.

The Dogue de Bordeaux has moderate trainability and generally benefits from patient, consistent training.

The Dogue de Bordeaux generally tends to do well with children when properly socialized and supervised.

The Dogue de Bordeaux generally tends to get along well with other dogs when properly socialized.

The Dogue de Bordeaux is generally considered relatively approachable for first-time dog owners.

The Dogue de Bordeaux may be less suited to apartment living and may benefit from more space.