The Dogue de Bordeaux also called the French Mastiff is a short, stocky mastiff with a huge, heavy, broad, wrinkled head. It is a very powerful dog, with a very muscular body yet retaining a harmonious general outline. Stocky, athletic, imposing, it has a very dissuasive aspect.
It makes an excellent family pet. It will bond to its family and feel separation is a form of punishment. The head is a very important feature when evaluating this breed. Top quality show males have a head circumference of 27-30 inches (68-75cm).
The Dogue de Bordeaux is calm, balanced and affectionate. Breeders have softened the temperament of this dog quite a bit from his original ferocity; today the Bordeaux has a good and calm temperament. This breed is extremely loyal, patient and devoted to its family.
It makes a first class watch and guard dog. Despite its fearsome appearance, the Dogue de Bordeaux is gentle with children and family members.
This dog can be very aggressive with other dogs. Socialization at an early age is a must.
It is highly recommended that this dog become fully obedience trained, requires an experienced owner. It is highly intelligent and learns quickly although it can be quite stubborn. Once the Dogue de Bordeaux learns a command it rarely forgets it.
Self-colored, in all shades of fawn, from Mahogany to Isabella (lightest fawn). A good pigmentation is required. Limited white patches are permissible on the chest and extremities of the limbs. It is available in three mask colors. 1. No mask or red mask 2. Brown mask 3. Black mask.
Skin, thick and sufficiently loose fitting. The hair is fine, short and soft to the touch.
It is not an easy dog to breed. Litters are generally small. Cesarean sections are often needed at birth because the puppies have extremely large heads. The dams are so broad chested that they often lie on their stomachs to nurse their pups, sometimes squashing them.
Breeders must watch out vigilantly for the pups or some will probably be lost. Females tend to be very protective of their puppies. Hip dysplasia can be an issue. To help prevent the chance of hip or elbow dysplasia developing make sure your dog is on a healthy, well proportioned diet, and avoid excessive running and jumping while still a puppy as this can be hard on the developing joints. Be aware that due to their size they have an increased chance of bloat, leading to a twisted stomach, feed two or three small meals a day, instead of one large one. To minimize the risk of your French Mastiff developing any hereditary health issues, you should buy a Dogue de Bordeaux puppy from a reputable Dogue de Bordeaux breeder.
This is a low energy breed and will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised.
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