Dogue De Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is one of France's most ancient and distinctive breeds, with roots in the Bordeaux region dating back centuries.
Originally developed as a guard dog and hunting companion, this impressive breed gained international recognition following its appearance in the 1989 film Turner and Hooch.
25-34kg
Weight
Large
Size
12-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Dogue De Bordeaux
Today, it remains a devoted family companion for those with the space and experience to care for such a substantial dog. With a weight of 25–34 kilograms and standing 51–61 centimetres tall, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a powerfully built working dog featuring one of the breed's most striking characteristics: a remarkably large, imposing head relative to its body size. Its short, fawn or mahogany coat typically displays a distinctive dark mask. Temperamentally, this breed is loyal, affectionate and naturally protective, forming strong bonds with its family. When properly socialised from puppyhood and trained with patience and positive reinforcement, the Dogue de Bordeaux becomes a calm, gentle companion indoors. However, their size necessitates careful supervision around small children and the elderly. Whilst not suited to highly active lifestyles, they require regular daily exercise of up to one hour. This big-hearted breed thrives with an experienced, committed owner.
Dogue De Bordeaux at a Glance
- Group
- Working
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 25–34 kg
- Height
- 51–61 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Short
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- Up to 1 hour per day
- Typical price
- £500–£1000
Dogue De Bordeaux Temperament
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a loyal, affectionate and devoted breed that forms strong bonds with its family. When well socialised and correctly trained from puppyhood, this giant dog is calm and gentle indoors. Given their substantial size, they should always be supervised around small children and the elderly, and jumping up must be discouraged from the outset. They are naturally protective and make effective guard dogs simply through their imposing presence. The Dogue de Bordeaux is not suited to a highly active lifestyle, but it does need regular daily exercise. Patient, consistent training and plenty of positive reinforcement will bring out the best in this trustworthy, big-hearted breed.
Dogue De Bordeaux Lifestyle
The Dogue De Bordeaux is happiest in a spacious home and is happiest with plenty of outdoor space at home. They suit a country lifestyle better than city living.
Dog Food for Dogue De Bordeaux
Top-rated foods for Large breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Dogue De Bordeaux
Dogue De Bordeaux Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Dogue De Bordeaux weighing around 30 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£5.22 - £5.57
Per month
£157 - £167
Per year
£1906 - £2032
Dogue De Bordeaux Characteristics
The Dogue De Bordeaux demands serious exercise and won't be happy with a quick stroll around the block and trains well and tends to enjoy learning new skills. They are very patient and gentle with kids, but can be left for short to moderate periods without issue. The coat benefits from a brush once or twice a week and sheds moderately. They are sharp and quick-witted, which is a joy, but means they need keeping mentally occupied.
Dogue De Bordeaux Pros & Cons
Pros
- A devoted family dog that forms strong bonds with their owners
- Naturally protective, with excellent instincts as a watchdog
- Gentle and calm in temperament when properly socialised from the start
- Grooming is manageable, needing only a light weekly routine
Cons
- Heavy drooling and slobber comes with the territory
- Prone to various health conditions that can lead to significant vet costs
- Can be stubborn if training is not kept consistent and clear
- Needs secure fencing, as they are stronger and more agile than they may appear
