The Dogue De Bordeaux!
This imposing canine, reported to have originated in France a good six centuries
ago, is also called the French Mastiff, Bordeaux Dog, Bulldogue Francais, or
simply DDB.
This powerful dog is known for his head, probably the largest among all canines.
Aside from this, the Dogue De Bordeaux has a strong, stocky and muscular physique
that can easily frighten away any man. The Dogue’s head, covered with
deep wrinkles and punctuated by a large jaw, makes the canine look even fiercer
than it really is.
Some Quick Facts:
Life Expectancy:
11-14 years
Energy Level:
Inactive indoors.
Living Conditions:
Apartment is fine, though should be given exercise.
Barking:
Less than average..
Exercise Needs:
2 short walks daily. 1 off leash run per week.
Breed Group:
Working/Mastiff
Size:
Large
Height:
22-28 inches
Weight:
100-130 pounds
Standard Hair Colors:
Fawn to mahogany red or brown.
National breed club:
Dogue de Bordeaux Society
Dogue De Bordeaux Skills
The massive Dogue de Bordeaux was originally bred to protect French estates from stray animals and prowlers. Later on, they were used to herd cattle and as combat dogs in wars. Today, the Dogue de Bordeaux is bred mainly to serve as a watchdog or family pet. Some DDBs are trained especially for performance events such as carting, weight pulling, tracking and search and rescue. Since these thrive on extra attention, these are being used to aid patients who are in therapy.
Dogue De Bordeaux Personality
The Dogue de Bordeaux has mellowed significantly through the years. From being a ferocious territorial fighter, it is now even tempered. The modern day Dogue de Bordeaux is calm, loyal, affectionate, good with children and extremely devoted to its master. The dog, however, can still be quite aggressive towards fellow canines (particularly males) and is usually reluctant to approach strangers. Incidentally, the Dogue de Bordeaux is one who snores while he sleeps and is generally slobbery.
Exercise Needs
The Dogue de Bordeaux, despite his size, has very minimal exercise requirements. Regular walks twice daily should be sufficient. The massive Dogue de Bordeaux would, however, appreciate being let off his leash and being allowed to run and play at least once a week.
Living Conditions
Although the Dogue de Bordeaux requires a lot of exercise, he can live comfortably in a house with limited space. He is not prone to running around and jumping on sofas, in fact, the Dogue de Bordeaux is quite inactive indoors, opting to spend most of his time lying around, resting.
Grooming Requirements
The coat of the Dogue de Bordeaux is fine and short and the colors range from fawn to mahogany red or brown. Though some white patches on the chest and legs are permissible, white markings are not. The coat, though short, should be brushed regularly especially when the dog is shedding.
Health Issues
As with most large-breed dogs, the Dogue de Bordeaux is highly susceptible to hip displasia. Check the legs of DDB puppies before purchasing one.
If you liked this dog…
...and want to take care of dogs similar to the Dogue de Bordeaux, you can consider other Mastiffs (Old English, English, Neopolitan, Bullmastiffs, etc) or other large breed dogs such as the Great Dane or the St. Bernard.
