Quick Facts:

Group Classification: Mastiff

Country of Origin: France

Date of origin: Between 1203 and 1453

Weight (M): 54-65 kg (120-145 pounds) Height (M) 60-75 cm (23.5 -30 inches)

Weight (F): 54-65 kg (120-145 pounds) Height (F): 57-71 cm (22.5-28 inches)

Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years

History

There are many theories explaining the origin of these breeds. Some myths suggest that Dogue de Bordeaux came from Romania and Greek Molossus- from the English Mastiffs Aquitaine dogs to the Burgos. Dogue de Bordeaux has had several uses over their long history. These breeds have been the best flock guardians, war dogs and fighters during dog gladiator sports where they rallied against other dogs, bulls and bears. During the later stages of the middle ages, the Dogues grew to be personal bodyguards and cattle drivers. In the course of the French revolution, several breeds that strived to protect their masters’ farmhouses were attacked. Fortunately, there was a lot of interest in these breeds that led to their multiplication in France and as a result, gained popularity in other countries as well. Presently, In the US the population of Dogue de Bordeaux is roughly three thousand.

General Description

The Dogues are dogs that are perfectly balanced, massive and muscular with powerful strength. The sizes of these breeds are commonly in musculature and width, as compared to their heights. The Dogues are set relatively lower to the ground, which is somehow different from the English Mastiff breeds. Additionally, the body sizes of these breeds are in thick-sets and have straight, short top lines and gentle rounded croups. While the front legs of Dogue de Bordeaux are heavy boned and straight, their straight tails start from their bases and then narrow at some point around the tips. These straight tails are normally thick at the base regions but start tapering to some point towards the end, although they are rarely lower than their hocks. The breeds are presented using totally natural conditions with intact ears, natural dewclaws and tails. However, dog masters have to thoroughly evaluate Dogue de Bordeauxs for correctness in conformation, movement, general structural dependability and temperament.

Temperament

Several masters have tried to soften the temperaments of Dogue de Bordeaux quite a lot from their inborn fierceness. Presently, these dogs have composed and good personalities since they are exceptionally faithful, reliable and tolerant to their families and masters. Confrontational and fearless when encountering unfamiliar people, the breeds make perfect watch dogs. They socialize extremely well when in the company of other animals from their tender ages, meaning the Dogue de Bordeaux is less violent when with different dog breeds. When sleeping, these breeds always snore heavily and drool. In spite of their fearsome appearances, Dogue de Bordeauxs are gentle when around children and their owners.

Health and Care

Many Dogue de Bordeaux breeds are relatively healthy although some of them have high probabilities of getting hip dysplacia. In the same way, there are some instances of heart problems, hyperkeratosis and epilepsy. Considering Dogue de Bordeauxs are average shedders, very little care is needed although adhering to the normal immunization strategies is vital for all dog owners.

Coat Description

The coats of Dogue de Bordeauxs are always fine, soft and short and come in different colors too; light coppery red, dark brownish red with brown, red or black masks. Normally, white marks are visible on the toe tips and chest regions. However, any white color on a different body part is very rare and in instances where pigmentation exceeds the neck regions, the condition is undesirable.

Pets4You offers listings of Dogue de Bordeaux breeders with puppies for sale.