Dogue de Bordeaux Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Dogue de Bordeaux, or French Mastiff, is a massive, red-coated guardian with a huge head, deep wrinkles and a loyal nature. It was used for guarding, hunting and herding in France, and gained fame in a well-known buddy comedy.

Origins and appearance

The breed is one of the oldest French breeds, used as a butcher's dog and estate guardian. Dogues are large and heavily muscled, with a massive head, a short muzzle, loose skin, a short, fine coat in shades of fawn to mahogany and a dark or red mask.

Temperament

They are calm, loyal and protective. They bond closely with family and are wary of strangers. They are usually gentle with their own children but can be dominant with other dogs. They are strong-willed. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need moderate exercise, such as short daily walks. They prefer cool weather. Avoid heavy exercise in heat or while growing. Keep them lean.

Training

They are intelligent but can be stubborn. Use calm, consistent, positive methods and early, thorough socialization. Teach leash manners before the dog is large. Work with an experienced trainer.

Coat and grooming

The short coat needs weekly brushing. See short coat dog grooming guide. Clean the face wrinkles daily, wipe the drool, clean ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Heart disease, including dilated cardiomyopathy and aortic stenosis
• Hip and elbow dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Skin fold dermatitis. See skin fold dermatitis in dogs
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Heat sensitivity and breathing issues. See dog heatstroke
• Cancer. See signs of cancer in dogs

Living with a Dogue de Bordeaux

They suit experienced owners with space and cool conditions. They are poorly suited to small homes and hot climates.

A typical day

A Dogue walks slowly, naps for much of the day and watches. They like to be near family.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are large and clumsy. Begin socialization, handling and training. Avoid stairs and heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food for a giant dog and significant vet costs. See dog vet cost guide and dog pet insurance guide.

Seasons and travel

They suffer in heat and need shelter in cold. Travel requires a large vehicle.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include exercising in heat, skipping fold care, poor socialization and underestimating size and health costs.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about heart, hip and elbow tests, and lifespans in the lines. Meet the parents.

A short, intense life

The breed's lifespan is among the shortest of dog breeds. Many owners say that is the hardest part. Talk to your vet about care plans, consider insurance and choose breeders who track longevity.

Heat and breathing

The short muzzle and heavy build make cooling harder. Keep the dog in cool areas, avoid midday exercise and never leave it in a car.

Daily care checklist

Plan on a slow walk, weekly brushing, daily face cleaning, nail trims and measured meals. Provide cool resting areas and learn the signs of bloat and heat stress.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Dogue suits experienced owners with space who want a calm, loyal giant and accept drool and health costs. It may not suit small homes, hot climates or tight budgets. For a related mastiff, see the English Mastiff.

The takeaway

Dogues de Bordeaux are massive, red and loyal, and they need space, cool weather and careful health care.