Dogue de Bordeaux

About the breed

A massive head on a dog that demands respect for its strength

The Dogue de Bordeaux is one of the few breeds whose head, relative to body size, is considered the largest of any dog, which combined with its powerful, muscular build immediately signals just how large and strong this breed is. Despite its appearance, the breed's temperament is generally calm and devoted — a Dogue de Bordeaux isn't naturally looking for conflict, but its sheer weight and power mean it's a dog that demands an experienced, respectful owner. The characteristic forehead wrinkles and a somewhat worried expression are part of the breed's official description, adding to the impression of power beyond sheer body weight.

An old French mastiff breed from the Bordeaux region

The breed originates in southwestern France, around the city of Bordeaux, where for centuries it served as an estate guardian and a hunter of large game such as wild boar, which explains its combination of weight, endurance and confident bearing. It's considered one of France's older mastiff-type breeds, although its precise origins before the breed's modern standardization in the 19th century aren't fully documented.

Gentle with children, but its weight calls for supervision

A Dogue de Bordeaux is typically gentle and patient with children, but given its sheer weight and strength, even a completely well-meaning dog can accidentally knock over a small child during play, so any contact between the dog and young children should be supervised by an adult. The same applies on leash walks, where the breed's strength calls for experienced, confident handling.

Caution with multiple dogs in the household

A Dogue de Bordeaux can be selective around other dogs, and having two dogs of the same sex in the same household — especially two males — is a known risk factor for serious fights. Because of this, a multi-dog household needs careful matching of companions, gradual and supervised introductions, and an owner experienced enough to recognize early signs of tension.

Training suited to an experienced, confident owner

Given its size, strength and stubbornness, a Dogue de Bordeaux needs early, consistent socialization and training built on calm, respectful handling rather than physical force, since the breed can respond to force with resistance. Within the family, it likes staying close to people and usually picks up basic rules quickly, but consistent guidance needs to continue throughout the dog's life, not just during puppyhood. Early enrollment in guided puppy group classes helps channel the breed's strength from a young age into calm behavior on the leash and around other dogs.

Drooling is part of the breed, not an exception

Loose lips and facial wrinkles mean a Dogue de Bordeaux drools regularly, especially after drinking water or when excited, which is normal for the breed and not a sign of illness. The breed became widely recognized through the dog Hooch in the film Turner & Hooch, which boosted its popularity but also gave plenty of new owners a surprise at the real-world amount of drool that ends up on walls and clothing.

Moderate exercise, poor heat tolerance

The Dogue de Bordeaux's exercise needs are moderate — longer, unhurried walks suit it better than intense activity, which given its weight can strain joints and heart. Its somewhat shortened muzzle and heavy drooling mean it tolerates heat and high humidity poorly, so summer activity should be kept to cooler parts of the day with shade and water always available.

A short lifespan and known health risks

A Dogue de Bordeaux typically lives only about 5 to 8 years, relatively short for a dog breed, mainly due to an increased risk of serious cardiac disease and gastric torsion (bloat), a recognized emergency in large, deep-chested breeds. Regular cardiac checkups and feeding several smaller meals instead of one large one can reduce part of that risk, though not eliminate it entirely. Besides cardiac disease and bloat, hip and elbow dysplasia are also more common in such a large, heavy breed, so it makes sense to choose a breeder who has the parent dogs regularly screened by a veterinarian.

A house with a garden, not an apartment, and an experienced owner

Given its size, weight and genuine need for a securely fenced space, a Dogue de Bordeaux isn't suited to apartment life and needs a house with a fenced garden instead. Its strength, stubbornness and high care costs — food, veterinary care, possible surgery — mean the breed is recommended for experienced, confident owners rather than those new to dogs. The breed's size is also reflected in everyday food and equipment costs, worth factoring into planning for life with a dog this size.

Pros & cons