The Dogue de Bordeaux
Explore the ancient history, distinctive H.E.A.R.T.S. traits, and versatile working roles of the Dogue de Bordeaux.
November 12, 2024
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is one of the oldest French breeds of dog. Known for its muscular build and protective nature, the breed has been used historically as an imposing guardian, a big game hunter, and a reliable working dog.
Working
23 – 27 inches
99 – 110 pounds & up
5 – 8 years
| Country of Origin | France |
|---|---|
| Bred For | Guarding |
| Known For | Massive Head, Stocky & Athletic Build, Self-Assurance |
| Popularity | Moderate |
| Temperament | Calm, Companionable, Courageous |
| Activities | Guarding, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports |
The Dogue de Bordeaux has a history that dates back to ancient Gaul, where it is believed to have descended from molossers and mastiff-type dogs brought to Europe by the Romans. The breed was primarily developed in the Bordeaux region of France, where it served as a versatile working dog.
Historically, Dogues were used for guarding estates, pulling carts, and even hunting large game such as wild boar. By the Middle Ages, they were prized as powerful protectors, often used by the French nobility to guard castles and estates. The breed’s strength and loyalty made it indispensable for both labor and protection.
The Dogue de Bordeaux was first officially recognized in France in 1863 when the breed was exhibited at the first French dog show in Paris. During the 19th century, the breed faced challenges due to changing societal roles and had nearly become extinct by the mid-20th century. Efforts by dedicated breeders helped to revive the breed, with official recognition by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) granted in 1954.
In the United States, the Dogue de Bordeaux gained popularity after the breed appeared prominently in the 1989 film Turner & Hooch. The American Kennel Club (AKC) granted full recognition to the breed in 2008, placing it in the Working Group.
Dogue de Bordeaux males typically stand between 23.5 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder, while females measure from 23 to 26 inches. Adult males generally weigh 110 pounds or more, while mature females weigh at least 99 pounds.
The athletic Dogue de Bordeaux is a massive breed with a powerful and muscular build that appears “rather close to the ground.” The breed’s proportions reflect its strength and endurance, with a near-level topline and a back and loin that appear broad when viewed from above.
Texture: The Dogue de Bordeaux has a short, fine, coat that is soft and lies close to the body. The skin is thick and sufficiently loose-fitting without excessive wrinkles. A well-defined dewlap, from the throat forming folds to the chest, hangs without exaggeration.
| Standard Color | |
|---|---|
| Fawn | y |
| Mahogany/td> | y |
| Isabella | y |
| Red | y |
| Standard Marking | |
|---|---|
| White Patches | y |
| Black Mask | y |
| Brown Mask | y |
| Black Mask, White Markings | y |
A Note About Color: The Dogue de Bordeaux is a self-colored dog in rich shades of fawn, from dark red fawn to a light fawn. Any other color is not allowed. Individual patches of white are allowable on the forechest (a secondary patch on the throat is acceptable but not preferred), toes (not above the pastern and hock joints), and on the backs of the pasterns. A black mask, if present, spreads out only slightly and does not appear on the skull.
The tail of the Dogue de Bordeaux is very thick at the base and tapers to a point. It is carried low when the dog is relaxed but is carried level with the back, or slightly above, when the dog is active or alert. The tail is natural and not docked, and should not be kinked, knotted, atrophied, or laterally deviated or twisted.
The Dogue de Bordeaux requires a commitment to meeting the needs of this large, loyal, and powerful breed. Prospective owners should be prepared to provide proper training and exercise, and a safe and secure environment to encourage the development of a well-rounded and well-behaved companion.
The Dogue de Bordeaux typically has a lifespan of 5 to 8 years, which is shorter than many dogs due to the breed’s large size and predisposition to certain health conditions. While generally resilient, the Dogue benefits from regular veterinary care, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle to maintain its quality of life.
The Dogue de Bordeaux can be prone to several health issues, including:
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a loyal, affectionate, and calm breed that forms a deep bond with its family members. While known for its gentle demeanor with children, the breed’s protective instincts make it naturally wary of strangers, requiring early and consistent socialization.
Dogues thrive in homes where they are included in family activities and given plenty of attention, as they can become lonely or anxious if left alone for extended periods. Although generally good with other dogs when properly introduced, their strong personalities may lead to assertive behaviors, especially with unfamiliar animals.
The Dogue de Bordeaux requires a high-quality, well-balanced diet tailored to its large size and slower metabolism. Puppies should be fed a large-breed puppy formula to support rapid growth while minimizing stress on the developing joints.
Adult Dogues typically require 4 to 7 cups of food per day, divided into two meals, depending on size, age, and activity level. Access to fresh water is essential, and feeding schedules should be consistent to avoid issues like bloat. Caretakers should avoid overfeeding, as the breed can be prone to obesity, which will exacerbate other health concerns.
The Dogue de Bordeaux is an intelligent breed but can be stubborn, requiring firm yet patient training. Early obedience training and socialization are crucial to manage its protective instincts and ensure it is comfortable around people and other animals.
Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best, as harsh techniques can damage trust and hinder progress. While not overly energetic, the breed benefits from participation in activities that are mentally stimulating. With consistent leadership, the Dogue can become a well-mannered and devoted companion.
The Dogue de Bordeaux has moderate exercise needs, requiring at least 30 to 60 minutes of daily activity to maintain its health and prevent boredom. This can include leisurely walks, playtime in a secure yard, or interactive games like tug-of-war.
| Energy Level | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Exercise Requirements | 1 Hour/Day (Minimum), Daily Walks, Vigorous Running, Regular Exercise, Mental Stimulation |
While this is not a high-energy breed, regular exercise is crucial to prevent obesity and strengthen muscles. However, care should be taken to avoid overexertion, especially during hot weather, as the breed is prone to overheating due to its size and short muzzle.
The Dogue de Bordeaux has minimal grooming needs due to its short, smooth coat. Weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush or grooming glove helps to remove loose hair and maintain a healthy coat.
| Coat Type | Fine, Short, Soft |
|---|---|
| Grooming Requirements | Weekly Brushing, Occasional Bathing, Routine Ear Cleaning, Periodic Nail Trimming, Regular Tooth Brushing |
Special attention should be given to the breed’s facial wrinkles, which need to be cleaned and dried regularly to prevent infections. Routine grooming also includes trimming nails, cleaning ears, and brushing teeth to ensure overall health and good hygiene.
The Dogue de Bordeaux is best suited for homes with a securely fenced yard and enough space to accommodate its large size. While these dogs can adapt to apartment living, their size and strength make a more spacious environment the ideal.
Dogues are sensitive to extreme temperatures and should be kept indoors during hot or cold weather. They are deeply devoted to their families and thrive when included in daily activities, making them excellent companions for households that can meet their breed-specific needs for attention and care.
Dogue de Bordeaux puppies are affectionate, curious, and quick learners, but their large size and strong personalities require thoughtful support and guidance. Rapid growth during the first year necessitates proper nutrition and care to promote healthy development and minimize joint issues later in life.
Caring for a Dogue de Bordeaux puppy starts with creating a safe, structured environment and setting clear boundaries. Puppy-proofing the home is essential, as the pup’s curiosity and size can lead to accidents or the destruction of cherished household items.
Early socialization is critical to prevent fearfulness or excessive guarding instincts. Introducing the puppy to various people, animals, and environments helps to develop confidence and nurture a calm temperament.
Feeding a high-quality large-breed puppy formula promotes proper growth and supports healthy joints. Meals should be divided into three to four smaller portions daily, transitioning to two meals as the pup matures.
Training should begin early and focus on basic commands and housebreaking, and introducing a crate as a place to comfortably rest and sleep. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best for this powerful yet companionable breed. Routine veterinary care and support from the puppy’s breeder are vital to monitor growth during this critical period.
With proper care and guidance, the Dogue de Bordeaux puppy will grow into a devoted, protective, and loving family member.
The Dogue de Bordeaux is recognized by the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
| Organization | Group Designation |
|---|---|
| AKC (American Kennel Club) | Working |
| UKC (United Kennel Club) | Guardian |
| CKC (Canadian Kennel Club) | Working |
| ANKC (Australian National Kennel Council) | Utility |
| RKC (The Royal Kennel Club) | Working |
| FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) | Group 2: Pinscher and Schnauzer Molossoid Breeds – Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs; Section 2.1: Molossoid Breeds |
The ideal Dogue de Bordeaux is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
| Organization | Breed Standard |
|---|---|
| American Kennel Club | AKC Dogue de Bordeaux Breed Standard |
| United Kennel Club | UKC Dogue de Bordeaux Breed Standard |
| Canadian Kennel Club | CKC Dogue de Bordeaux Breed Standard |
| Australian National Kennel Council | ANKC Dogue de Bordeaux Breed Standard |
| The Royal Kennel Club | RKC Dogue de Bordeaux Breed Standard |
| Fédération Cynologique Internationale | FCI Dogue de Bordeaux Breed Standard |
Yes, Dogue de Bordeaux shed. Regular weekly brushing helps to manage any loose hair and maintain the coat’s healthy appearance.
No, Dogue de Bordeaux are not hypoallergenic. They shed hair and produce dander, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.
Dogue de Bordeaux typically live between 5 to 8 years. Their lifespan is shorter than many breeds due to their large size and a predisposition for certain health issues.
Yes, Dogue de Bordeaux are excellent family dogs, known for their loyalty and calm demeanor. They are affectionate with their families and gentle with children when properly socialized and trained.
No, Dogue de Bordeaux are not excessive barkers. They tend to bark only when necessary, such as to alert their owners to potential visitors, staying true to their guarding instincts.
General Appearance: The Dogue de Bordeaux is one of the most ancient French breeds. He is a typical brachycephalic molossoid type. The Dogue de Bordeaux is a concave lined breed. He is a very powerful dog, with a very muscular body yet retaining a harmonious general outline. Built rather close to the ground, the distance from the deepest point of the chest to the ground is slightly less than the depth of the chest. A massive head with proper proportions and features is an important characteristic of the breed. His serious expression, stocky and athletic build and self-assurance make him very imposing. Bitches have identical characteristics, but less prominent.
Size, Proportion, Substance: The length of the body, measured from the point of the shoulder to the point of the buttock, is greater than the height at the withers, in the proportion of 11/10. The depth of the chest is more than half the height at the withers. Size – Dogs: 23½ to 27 inches at the withers. Bitches: 23 to 26 inches at the withers. Weight – Dogs at least 110 pounds. Bitches at least 99 pounds.
Head: The head is large, angular, broad, and rather short. It is trapezium shaped when viewed from above and in front. Eyes – Oval and set wide apart. The space between the eyes is equal to about twice the length of the eye (eye opening). Frank expression. The haw should not be visible. Color – hazel to dark brown for a dog with a black mask, lighter color tolerated but not sought after in dogs with either a brown mask or without a mask. Fault – Protruding eyes. Ears – The ear is small in proportion to the skull and of a slightly darker color than the coat. The front of the ears’ base is slightly raised. They should fall back, but not hang limply. The front edge of the ear is close to the cheek when the dog is attentive. The tip is slightly rounded and should not reach beyond the eye. Set rather high, at the level of the upper line of the skull, thus emphasizing the skull width even more. Skull – Back Skull in the male: The perimeter of the skull measured at the point of its greatest width corresponds roughly to the height at the withers. In bitches it may be slightly less. Its volume and shape are the result of the spacing of the lower jaw bones, and the very well-developed temporal area, upper-orbital area, and zygomatic arches. The cheeks are prominent due to the very strong development of the muscles. The skull is slightly rounded from one side to the other. The frontal groove is deep. The forehead, characterized by well-developed eyebrows, dominates the face but does not overhang it. However, the skull is still wider than high. The head is furrowed with symmetrical wrinkles on each side of the median groove. These deep ropes of wrinkle are mobile depending on whether the dog is attentive or not. The wrinkle which runs from the inner corner of the eye to the corner of the mouth is typical. If present, the wrinkle running from the outer corner of the eye to either corner of the mouth or dewlap should be discreet. Stop – The stop is very pronounced, almost forming a right angle with the muzzle (95 to 100 degrees). Fault – Extreme characteristics such as a very short muzzle, flat skull, a swollen fold behind the nose that protrudes over it and a prominent fold that extends across the head without a break or definition between the eyes. Muzzle – Powerful, broad, thick, and rather short. Should not be fleshy below the eyes. When viewed in profile, the foreface is very slightly concave with moderately obvious folds. Its width decreases only slightly from the root of the muzzle to the tip. When viewed from above it has the general shape of a square. When viewed from the side, the top lines of the skull and muzzle form an angle that converges at, or near the end of the muzzle. When the head is held horizontally, the end of the muzzle, which is truncated, thick and broad at the base, is in front of a vertical tangent to the front of the nose (The nose is slightly set back from the front of the muzzle.). Its perimeter is almost two thirds of that of the head. Its length varies between one third and one quarter of the total length of the head, measured from the nose to the occipital crest. The ideal length of the muzzle is between these two extremes. Nose – Broad, with well opened nostrils. Self-colored according to the color of the mask. Slightly upturned permissible. Upper lip – Thick, moderately pendulous yet retractile. When viewed in profile it shows a rounded lower line and covers the lower jaw on the sides. When viewed from the front, the edge of the upper lip is in contact with the lower lip, and drops on either side thus forming an inverse, wide V. Jaws – Very powerful, and broad. Undershot so that there is no contact between the upper and lower incisors. The lower jaw curves upwards. The chin is very pronounced and should neither overlap the upper lip exaggeratedly nor be covered by it. Disqualification – Mouth not undershot; wry jaw. Bite – Undershot. Fault – Incisors constantly visible when the mouth is closed or very small incisors unevenly set. Severe Fault – Canines or tongue constantly visible when the mouth is closed. Teeth – Strong, particularly the canines. Lower, canines set wide apart and slightly curved. Incisors well aligned especially in the lower jaw where they form a straight line. Fault – Disproportioned head (too small or exaggeratedly voluminous). Severe Fault – Long narrow head with insufficiently pronounced stop, with a muzzle measuring more than a third of the total length of the head (lack of type in head).
Neck, Topline and Body: Neck – Very strong and muscular, almost cylindrical. The skin is supple, ample and loose. The average circumference almost equals that of the head. There is a noticeable, slightly convex, furrow at the junction of the head and neck. The well-defined dewlap starts at the level of the throat forming folds down to the chest, without hanging exaggeratedly. The neck is very broad at its base, merging smoothly with the shoulders. Topline – The topline should be as level as possible with a slight dip behind the well-marked withers. The back is solid and broad when viewed from above. The loin is broad, rather short and solid. Fault – Arched back (convex). Chest – Powerful, long, deep, broad, and let down lower than the elbows. The forechest is broad and powerful with a lower line that is convex towards the bottom. The ribcage is deep and well sprung, but not barrel shaped. The circumference of the chest should be between 10 and 14 inches greater than the height at the withers. Underline – Curved, from the deep brisket to the firm abdomen. Slight to moderate tuck-up. Should be neither pendulous nor extreme. Croup – Moderately sloping down to the root of the tail. Tail – Very thick at the base. The tip preferably reaches the hock but not below. Carried low, it is neither broken nor kinked but supple. Hanging when the dog is at rest; generally carried level with the back or slightly above the level of the back when the dog is in action, without curving over the back or being curled. Fault – Fused vertebrae but not kinked. Disqualification – An atrophied tail or a tail that is knotted and laterally deviated or twisted.
Forequarters – Strong bone structure, legs very muscular. Shoulders – Powerful, prominent muscles. Slant of shoulder – blade is medium (about 45 degrees to the horizontal), with the angle of the scapular-humeral articulation being a little more than 90 degrees. Upper Arms – Very muscular. Elbows – In line with the body. Should be neither too close to the chest nor turned out. Forearms – When viewed from the front, straight or inclining slightly inwards, especially in dogs with a very broad chest. When viewed in profile, vertical. Pasterns – Powerful. Slightly sloping when viewed in profile. When viewed from the front, may bend slightly outwards, thus compensating for the slight inclination of the forearm inwards. Feet – Strong. Toes should be tight, nails curved and strong, and pads are well developed and supple; the Dogue is well up on his toes despite his weight. Hindquarters – Powerful legs with strong bone structure; well angulated. When viewed from behind, the hindquarters are parallel and vertical thus giving an impression of power. The hindquarters are not quite as broad as the forequarters. Upper Thigh – Well developed and thick with visible muscles. Stifle – In a parallel plane to the median plane or very slightly out. Second Thigh – Relatively short, well-muscled. Hock Joint – Short and sinewy, with the angle of the hock joint moderately open. Hock – Strong, no dewclaws. Hind feet – Slightly longer than the front feet, toes should be tight. Coat: Fine, short and soft to the touch. Skin – Thick and sufficiently loose fitting without excessive wrinkles.
Color: Coat – Self-colored, in all shades of fawn, from a dark red fawn to a light fawn. A rich coat color is considered desirable. Individual patches of white on the forechest, a secondary patch of white on the throat is allowed but not preferred, white on the toes (not above the carpus or tarsus) and backs of pasterns is acceptable. Disqualification – White in any location other than what is listed above or any coat color other than shades of fawn on the head or body or any coat color other than shades of fawn. Black Mask – The mask is often only slightly spread out and should not invade the cranial region. There may be slight black shading on the skull, ears, neck and back. Pigmentation of the nose will be black. Brown Mask – Pigmentation of the nose, edge of lips and eye rims will also be brown. There may be non-invasive brown shading. No Mask – The coat is fawn: the skin appears red (also formerly called “red mask”). The nose is then reddish.
Gait: The gait is free and supple, for a molossoid. In open walking the movement is free, supple, close to the ground. Good drive from the hindquarters, good extension of the forelegs, especially at the trot, which is the preferred gait. As the trot quickens, the head tends to drop, the topline inclines towards the front, and the front feet get closer to the median plane while striding out with a long reaching movement. Vertical movement while in a short gallop is rather important. He is capable of great speed over short distances by bolting along close to the ground.
Temperament: Dogue de Bordeaux is gifted for guarding, which he assumes with vigilance and great courage but without aggressiveness. He is a very good companion, being attached to and affectionate toward his master. He is calm and balanced with a high stimulus threshold. The male normally has a dominant character. The foregoing is a description of the ideal Dogue de Bordeaux. Any deviation should be penalized in direct proportion to the extent of that deviation. Extreme deviation in any part should be penalized to the extent that the dog is effectively eliminated from competition.
Disqualifications:
Mouth not undershot; wry jaw.
An atrophied tail or a tail that is knotted and laterally deviated or twisted.
White in any other location other than what is listed above or any coat color other than shades of fawn on the head or body, or any coat color other than shades of fawn.
Approved April 12, 2021
Effective June 9, 2021
Explore the ancient history, distinctive H.E.A.R.T.S. traits, and versatile working roles of the Dogue de Bordeaux.
Discover key aspects of judging the Dogue de Bordeaux: assess its powerful build, distinctive head, and movement for true breed essence.
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a breed with a “concave outline” and has the most “bulldog features” among the mastiff breeds. Read more.
Being athletic is an attribute crucial to the breed’s conformation to the American Kennel Club Dogue de Bordeaux Breed Standard.
The most ancient of French dog breeds, the Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the Bordeaux Mastiff, is a very powerful mastiff-type guard dog.
In this installment of the series, the remaining six Molossoid breeds of Mastiff type (Boerboel, Bullmastiff, Cane Corso, Dogue de Bordeaux
Stephanie Friedley of Amore Kennel shares her journey in Dogues de Bordeaux, focusing on soundness, type, and breed education.
The best way to ensure a long and happy relationship with a purebred dog is to purchase one from a responsible breeder. Not sure where to begin?
Contact the National Parent Club’s Breeder Referral Program, which is listed on the AKC Breeder Referral Contacts page.
