Dogue de Bordeaux
The Good
- Very devoted and loyal
- Calm and affectionate temperament
- Considered a quiet breed
- Good with children
- Relatively low-maintenance grooming with minimal shedding
The Real
- Poor tolerance for being alone
- Can be stubborn
- Requires an experienced owner
- Not suited for intense exercise
- Prone to certain health conditions
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a magnificent gentle giant that commands attention wherever it goes. These powerful dogs are instantly recognisable by their massive heads—proportionately the largest in the canine kingdom—complete with expressive eyes and a deeply furrowed brow that gives them an almost wise appearance.
Despite their imposing size and muscular build, these French mastiffs are surprisingly calm and laid-back companions. They're the kind of dog that's content to spend most of the day lounging around the house, making them surprisingly adaptable to various living situations across Australia. As long as their moderate exercise needs are met with a daily walk, they’re happy in a suburban Perth home or even a spacious Brisbane apartment with a committed owner.
Here's the thing about the Dogue de Bordeaux: their incredible devotion to family is what truly sets them apart. They form deep bonds with everyone in their household and are particularly gentle and patient with children. Their protective instincts are strong but well-balanced, making them excellent watchdogs who won't bark unnecessarily. However, they do require an experienced owner who can provide consistent, gentle leadership, as these intelligent dogs can have a stubborn streak when they set their minds to something.
History
The Dogue de Bordeaux boasts one of the most ancient lineages among French dog breeds, with roots stretching back well before France was even called France. While their exact origins remain somewhat mysterious, these magnificent mastiffs were already well-established by the 14th century, though they likely existed much earlier during Roman times.
The breed takes its name from the Bordeaux region of France, famous for its wines, where these dogs gained particular popularity and were refined into the breed we know today. Throughout history, these versatile dogs have worn many hats. They've served as estate guardians for French aristocrats, livestock protectors, and hunting companions for large game.
During more turbulent times, they even worked as cattle drivers, earning the nickname "butcher's dog." The breed survived the French Revolution by adapting to working-class life, showing its remarkable resilience. The most challenging period came during World War II when the breed nearly vanished entirely. Only a handful of dogs survived, preserved by dedicated owners who risked everything to keep the bloodline alive. From 1960, passionate breeders led by Raymond Triqué began the careful work of rebuilding the breed. Their efforts paid off when the breed was officially recognised by the FCI in 1971, ensuring these gentle giants would continue to grace homes around the world.
Traits & Characteristics
Dogue de Bordeaux characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
The Dogue de Bordeaux faces several health challenges that potential Australian owners should understand before bringing one home. Unfortunately, their impressive size comes with a significant trade-off—these gentle giants typically live only 5-8 years, which is shorter than most breeds.
Their distinctive flat face (brachycephalic structure) creates breathing difficulties, a problem amplified in Australia's warmer climates. In Brisbane's humidity or Perth's summer heat, these dogs can quickly develop breathing distress and overheating. They'll need air conditioning during hot weather and should avoid strenuous exercise when temperatures climb above 28°C.
Bloat—when the stomach twists and traps air—is a serious, life-threatening condition common in large, deep-chested breeds like the Dogue de Bordeaux. Australian owners should learn to recognise the signs (excessive drooling, retching, a distended stomach, and restlessness) and know their nearest emergency vet clinic, as this requires immediate treatment.
Joint problems, including hip and elbow dysplasia, are common due to their substantial weight. Growing puppies need careful exercise management—no running up and down stairs or jumping from heights until at least 18 months old. Swimming is an excellent, low-impact exercise for Australian Dogues, taking advantage of our beach culture while being gentle on developing joints.
Their wrinkled skin requires regular attention to prevent infections, particularly in humid coastal areas. Eye problems like ectropion and entropion are also breed concerns. A unique condition called footpad hyperkeratosis affects some dogs, causing painful cracking of paw pads that requires ongoing management. Reputable breeders will screen for many of these genetic issues, so always ask for health clearances.
Feeding a Dogue de Bordeaux properly is crucial for managing their weight and preventing serious health complications. These food-loving giants can easily become overweight, which puts dangerous strain on their already vulnerable joints and heart.
The key is establishing a strict feeding routine with measured portions. Adult Dogues should eat twice daily, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Never free-feed these dogs - their love of food combined with their tendency toward bloat makes scheduled meals essential. Use measuring cups rather than guessing portions, and follow feeding guidelines on quality dog food packaging.
Choose a high-quality dog food with 20-30% protein to support their impressive muscle mass. Look for formulas with added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support - particularly important given their size and predisposition to hip and elbow problems. Life-stage appropriate foods (puppy, adult, senior) ensure they're getting proper nutrition as they grow and age.
To prevent bloat, avoid exercise immediately before and after meals. Consider slow-feeder bowls or puzzle feeders to make them eat more slowly while providing mental stimulation. These also help reduce the risk of that dangerous stomach twisting that can be fatal in large breeds.
Australian owners should monitor their Dogue carefully in our warmer climate, as overweight dogs struggle even more with heat regulation. Fresh water should always be available, especially during summer months. Some dogs may benefit from supplements like omega-3 fatty acids for coat health or probiotics for digestion, but always consult your vet before adding anything to their diet. Remember, these gentle giants are excellent at convincing you they need extra treats, but maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for their quality of life.
The Dogue de Bordeaux is refreshingly low-maintenance in the grooming department, which is great news for busy Australian families. Their short, dense coat requires only weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush or shedding blade to remove loose hair and keep them looking their best.
However, there's one aspect of Dogue ownership that requires daily attention: drool management. These dogs are legendary slobberers, especially after eating, drinking, or getting excited. Keep towels handy around the house and in your car - you'll be wiping faces and cleaning drool spots regularly. It's just part of life with a French Mastiff, and most owners develop a routine around it.
The wrinkles on their faces and any skin folds need special attention to prevent infections, particularly important in Australia's humid coastal areas. Clean these folds weekly (or daily in very humid conditions) with pet-safe wipes, making sure to dry thoroughly afterward. Trapped moisture can quickly lead to bacterial or fungal infections.
Their ears need weekly checking and cleaning, especially since their floppy ears can trap moisture and debris. Use a vet-recommended ear cleaning solution and cotton balls - never insert anything deep into the ear canal. After swimming at Australian beaches or pools, always dry their ears thoroughly.
Some Dogues develop footpad hyperkeratosis, where the paw pads become thick and cracked. This requires regular moisturising with vet-recommended creams and sometimes professional trimming of excess keratin. Regular nail trims are essential given their weight.
Bathing should be done monthly or as needed, using a mild dog shampoo. In Australia's intense sun, consider dog-safe sunscreen for exposed skin areas, particularly if your Dogue spends time outdoors. Their short coat offers minimal UV protection, making sun safety important for preventing skin damage.
Training a Dogue de Bordeaux requires patience, consistency, and a gentle but firm approach. These intelligent dogs are natural thinkers who like to consider their options before acting, which can be mistaken for stubbornness. They respond best to positive reinforcement and absolutely don't tolerate harsh training methods.
Early socialisation is absolutely critical, especially given their protective nature and impressive size. Australian puppy schools and dog parks are perfect for helping your Dogue learn appropriate behaviour around other dogs and people. They need exposure to different environments, sounds, and situations while young to prevent fearfulness or overprotectiveness as adults.
Basic obedience training should start immediately, focusing on essential commands like sit, stay, come, and especially loose-leash walking. Given their strength when fully grown, leash training is non-negotiable - you don't want a 60-kilogram dog deciding to chase something interesting at the local market.
Exercise needs are surprisingly moderate for such a large breed. A couple of daily walks and some playtime will keep most Dogues content. However, avoid intense exercise, especially in Australia's warmer months. Early morning or evening walks work best, and always carry water. Swimming is ideal exercise - many Australian Dogues love beach outings or pool time, which is gentle on their joints while providing excellent conditioning.
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, scent games, and training sessions keep their intelligent minds engaged. Many Australian dog sports clubs offer activities like nose work or gentle agility that suit their temperament perfectly.
Remember, young Dogues shouldn't do strenuous exercise until 18 months old to protect developing joints. No running beside bikes, jumping, or extensive stair climbing during puppyhood.
Who is an ideal owner?
The Dogue de Bordeaux isn't for everyone, and that's perfectly fine. These magnificent dogs thrive with owners who understand and appreciate their unique needs and characteristics.
The ideal owner is experienced with large breeds and comfortable establishing gentle but firm leadership. First-time dog owners might find the combination of size, strength, and independent thinking challenging. You need to be confident and consistent without being harsh—these sensitive souls shut down with heavy-handed training but can become pushy with owners who lack clear boundaries.
Australian families with older children often make excellent matches, as Dogues are wonderfully patient with kids, but their sheer size can accidentally overwhelm toddlers. They're perfect for families who enjoy a calm, steady companion rather than a high-energy adventure buddy. If you're looking for a jogging partner or hiking companion, this probably isn't your breed.
Your living situation needs to accommodate a large dog who craves family time. In cities like Sydney or Melbourne, body corporate rules can restrict dogs over a certain weight (often around 20-25 kg), so it's vital to check your building's by-laws. A securely fenced yard is ideal, but not essential if you're committed to daily walks.
Time availability is crucial—these dogs don't handle being alone well. They're happiest with owners who work from home, are retired, or have family members around most of the day. Financially, be prepared for higher costs for food, potential vet bills, and finding pet-friendly accommodation in Australia's competitive rental market. Most importantly, the ideal owner genuinely enjoys the unique quirks of mastiff ownership: the drooling, the snoring, and their thoughtful, sometimes stubborn, approach to life.
Interesting facts about the Dogue de Bordeaux
Hollywood's 'Hooch'
The Dogue de Bordeaux gained worldwide fame starring alongside Tom Hanks in the 1989 movie "Turner & Hooch," significantly boosting the breed's popularity.
Largest Head in Dogdom
These dogs have proportionately the largest heads in the entire canine kingdom—their head circumference roughly equals their height at the shoulders.
Survived Near Extinction
The breed nearly went extinct during World War II, with only a handful of dogs surviving to rebuild the entire breed population thanks to dedicated enthusiasts.
The Original 'Butcher's Dog'
They were historically known as "butcher's dogs" after the French Revolution when they transitioned from aristocratic estates to working with cattle drivers and meat traders.
FAQ
Yes, they can make excellent family dogs when properly socialised from puppyhood. They're naturally gentle, patient, and affectionate with children, forming strong bonds with all family members rather than just one person.
These are surprisingly low-energy dogs requiring only moderate daily exercise - typically two walks and some playtime. Avoid intense exercise, especially in Australia's heat, and focus on swimming or gentle activities that won't strain their joints.
Weekly brushing handles their short coat easily, but daily drool management is essential. Clean facial wrinkles weekly (more in humid conditions), check ears weekly, and bathe monthly or as needed.
While they can adapt to apartment living due to their calm nature, they need adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation. Their size and potential for drooling make them better suited to homes with some outdoor space.
Bloat is the most serious immediate concern requiring emergency treatment. Also monitor for breathing difficulties (especially in hot weather), joint problems, skin infections in wrinkles, and eye issues. Regular vet checkups are essential given their shorter lifespan.
Generally yes, especially when raised together from puppyhood. They can be less tolerant of same-sex dogs they don't know, but proper socialisation helps them coexist peacefully with other household pets.