Dogue de Bordeaux Breed Description

Introduction

A very old breed, these dogs were used for boar and bear hunting and then for driving cattle. Not until this breed appeared in an American film in 1989 did it attain any recognition outside of France. Dogues possess formidable traits such as relentless strength, wariness of strangers and an inclination to intimidate unknown people. They have a calm temperament and are loyal, devoted family dogs. Firm handling and strong socialization is required at puppyhood. Grooming needs are minimal. Desirable height at maturity, measured at the withers, ranges from 23 1/2 to 26 1/2 inches for males and 22 1/2 to 25 1/2 inches for females. Dogs in good condition should weight at least 110 lbs. and bitches at least 99 lbs. All other things being equal, the larger dog should be given preference over the smaller.

History

There are many theories explaining the origin of these breeds. Some myths suggest that the Dogue de Bordeaux came from Romania and Greek Molossus. Other tales identify the breed as stemming from a line of dogs in Tibet. Others believe they arose from the English Mastiffs and still others identify the dogs as the descendants of the Dogues de Bordeaux of Aquitaine. Whatever the truth, they are an ancient breed. The Dogue de Bordeaux has had several uses over their long history. They have been the best flock guardians, war dogs and fighters in dog gladiator sports where they rallied against other dogs, bulls and bears. During the later years of the Middle Ages, the Dogues grew to be personal bodyguards and cattle drivers. During the French Revolution, many lost their lives protecting their masters’ farmhouses as the mobs attacked. Fortunately, there was a lot of interest in these breeds that led to their multiplication in France; as a result, they have gained popularity in other countries as well.

General Description

The Dogues are dogs that are perfectly balanced, massive and muscular with powerful strength. The Dogues are set relatively lower to the ground, which is somehow different from the English Mastiff breeds. Additionally, the body size of this breed is thick-set with 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 tail tip. 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 handlers have to thoroughly evaluate Dogue de Bordeaux for correctness in conformation, movement, general structural dependability and temperament.

Temperament

Several Dogue owners have tried to soften the temperaments of Dogue de Bordeaux 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 breed makes a perfect watch dog. They socialize extremely well when in the company of other animals from a tender age, meaning the Dogue de Bordeaux is less violent in the company of different dog breeds. When sleeping, these dogs snore heavily and drool. In spite of their fearsome appearance, Dogue de Bordeaux are gentle around children and their owners.

Health and Care

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

Coat Description

The coat of the Dogue de Bordeaux are always fine, soft and short and come in different colors: 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.

 

Colors

Red-Brown, Fawn, Mahogany.

Living Area

The Dogue de Bordeaux will be at its best in rural or lightly populated suburban areas. Although the breed doesn't spend an extremely large amount of time exercising in any given day (a few walks and some light play is usually sufficient), the massive size of the Dogue de Bordeaux makes it an impractical pet for the house or for anywhere without a fairly large yard and outdoor living area. Despite the Dogue de Bordeaux's generally outdoor lifestyle, you and your family should still endeavor to spend as much time with the Dogue as possible, as its highly companionable and affectionate nature causes it to perceive the absence of its humans as a kind of punishment--which is usually not what you want your happy family pet to feel.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

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