Origin

The origin of Dogue de Bordeaux is totally unknown till date. The Greek and the Roman Molossus are the ancestors of Dogue de Bordeaux. The Alans brought this breed to Europe. Some people even say that this breed was derived from the Aquitaine or the Spanish Burgos.

General Description

This breed is stout, well build, broad but not bulky. It has a muscular body. The top portion of the breed is totally level. Its head and body is in a straight level. It has a wide head with a stamped muzzle like a bulldog with a light brown nose on the tip. It has small brown eyes and hanging lips. Its face is totally wrinkled. The Dogue de Bordeaux has a broad muscular neck and strong muscular limbs. This breed is short haired mainly found in colours like fawn or mahogany.

Character

The Dogue de Bordeaux is mainly used as guard dogs. They prove to be great companions and very gentle in nature. They love human interaction very much and they are very calm and affectionate. Generally these dogs are very shy and cannot mix with strangers so they should be trained properly from early ages. Their alertness makes them great guard dogs. They should be raised with other animals from young age otherwise things would go out of control when they grow up. Very powerful but agreeable at the same time. The Dogue de Bordeaux is a very devoted breed and they are also protective of their families. They are generally even tempered and good to others unless they are threatened. They do not attack others but they may be dangerous for trespassers. This is a good breed but they should be trained properly from early age. Not at all recommended for inexperienced owners.

Temperament

The Dogue de Bordeaux is dominant at times and that’s why they need a dominant owner. This is a very good dog, they are sweet and loveable but they are not recommended for novice owners. They are so big in size that they are not at all at all recommended for houses with kids. This breed is a giant and they are also protective in nature. It is very confident and gentle. They would not harm the kids but they are not recommended for them due to their size. They are very loyal to their families and they may even be dangerous for trespassers. They cannot mix with strangers sometimes due to their shyness. The Dogue de Bordeaux is a great companion and family dog. They are very alert and prove to be great watch dogs. If early training is provided they are also good to other pets.

Training

This is a very well tempered breed but firm training is required to train them properly. Early training classes are required.

Health

Like many other dogs they may be affected by hip dysplasia. They may also be affected by tumors, bloat, boils etc. Their average life span is 10 years and average litter rate is 8.