Bordeaux Dog: A Guide to the Popular French Mastiff Breed

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Bordeaux Dog; The Bordeaux Dog, also known as the Dogue de Bordeaux, is a large and powerful breed originally from France. They are known for their muscular build and distinctive wrinkled face. This breed has a rich history, dating back to the 14th century where they were used for hunting and guarding.

Despite their intimidating appearance, Bordeaux Dogs are known for their affectionate and loyal nature towards their owners. They require a lot of socialization and training to ensure they are well-behaved and obedient. This breed is not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their size and strength.

The Bordeaux Dog has gained popularity in recent years, thanks in part to their appearance in movies such as “Turner and Hooch” and “Red Dog”. However, it is important to note that this breed requires a lot of care and attention, including regular exercise and grooming. In this article, we will explore the history, characteristics, and care requirements of the Bordeaux Dog to help you determine if this breed is right for you.

Bordeaux Dog: Origin and History

The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a large breed of dog that originated in France. This breed has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages, and it has played an important role in French culture for centuries.

Historical Significance

The Dogue de Bordeaux has a long history of serving as a guardian and protector. In the past, these dogs were used for hunting wild game, as well as for protecting homes and families. They were also used as war dogs, and were known for their strength and courage on the battlefield.

Over time, the Dogue de Bordeaux became a symbol of French culture and heritage. The breed was featured in paintings, literature, and other forms of art, and was celebrated for its loyalty, intelligence, and bravery.

Origination Region

The Dogue de Bordeaux originated in the Bordeaux region of France, which is located in the southwestern part of the country. The breed is believed to be a descendant of ancient Molossian dogs, which were used by the Romans for fighting and guarding.

In the 19th century, the Dogue de Bordeaux nearly went extinct due to the popularity of other breeds. However, a group of dedicated breeders worked to revive the breed, and today it is recognized as one of the most beloved and iconic breeds in France.

Overall, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a breed with a rich history and cultural significance. Its strength, loyalty, and intelligence have made it a beloved companion and protector for centuries, and its legacy continues to live on today.

Physical Characteristics of Bordeaux Dog

The Bordeaux dog, also known as the Dogue de Bordeaux, is a large and muscular breed that is instantly recognizable by its massive head and wrinkled face. This breed has a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other dogs.

Size and Weight

Bordeaux dogs are a large breed, with males typically standing between 23 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 99 and 150 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, standing between 23 and 26 inches tall and weighing over 100 pounds.

Coat and Colors

The Bordeaux dog has a short, soft coat that comes in various shades of fawn, ranging from light to dark red. Small patches of white may be present, but they are not desirable according to breed standards.

The coat of a Bordeaux dog is easy to maintain and requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing will help to keep the coat clean and shiny, while also removing loose hair and preventing matting.

In summary, the Bordeaux dog is a large and muscular breed with a distinctive appearance. They have a short, soft coat that comes in various shades of fawn and require minimal grooming.

Bordeaux Dog: Behavior and Temperament

The Bordeaux Dog, also known as the Dogue de Bordeaux, is a calm and relaxed breed that is loyal to its family and makes a great companion. However, it is important to understand their behavior and temperament to ensure a happy and healthy relationship between the dog and its owner.

Interaction with Humans

Bordeaux Dogs are known for their devotion to their families. They are affectionate and patient with children, making them great family pets. They are also very protective of their owners and will defend them if they feel threatened. However, they can be stubborn at times and require consistent training and socialization.

It is important to note that Bordeaux Dogs are not very active and do not require a lot of exercise. Daily walks and playtime are sufficient to keep them healthy and happy. They also do not do well in hot weather and need to have access to shade and water at all times.

Interaction with Other Animals

Bordeaux Dogs can be friendly towards other animals if they are socialized from a young age. However, they have a strong prey drive and may chase after smaller animals. It is important to monitor their interactions with other animals and keep them on a leash when in public.

Bordeaux Dogs can also be aggressive towards other dogs, especially of the same sex. It is important to socialize them with other dogs from a young age and to supervise their interactions with other dogs.

Overall, Bordeaux Dogs are loyal and affectionate pets that require consistent training and socialization. They are great family pets but may not do well in households with smaller animals. It is important to understand their behavior and temperament to ensure a happy and healthy relationship between the dog and its owner.

Health and Lifespan of Bordeaux Dog

Common Health Issues

Like all dog breeds, the Dogue de Bordeaux is prone to certain health conditions. Some of the common health issues that affect this breed include:

Cancer: According to a health survey conducted by the Dogue de Bordeaux Society, cancer is the most common cause of death among this breed. About 30% of the dogs surveyed died from cancer, with lymphosarcoma being the most common type of cancer.
Hip Dysplasia: This is a condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly into the socket, causing pain and discomfort. It’s a common condition in large dog breeds, and the Dogue de Bordeaux is no exception.
Heart Disease: Dilated cardiomyopathy is a type of heart disease that can affect the Dogue de Bordeaux. This condition causes the heart to enlarge and weaken, which can lead to heart failure.

Average Lifespan

The Dogue de Bordeaux has a relatively short lifespan compared to other dog breeds. According to several sources, the average lifespan of this breed is around 5 years. However, with proper care and attention, some Dogue de Bordeaux have been known to live up to 8 years.

To ensure that your Dogue de Bordeaux lives a long and healthy life, it’s important to provide them with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care. Regular check-ups can help detect and treat any health issues early on, which can improve your pet’s chances of living a longer and healthier life.

Overall, while the Dogue de Bordeaux is a relatively healthy breed, it’s important to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect them. By being proactive about your pet’s health, you can help ensure that they live a long and happy life.

Care and Maintenance of Bordeaux Dog

Dietary Needs

Bordeaux dogs require a high-quality, protein-rich diet to maintain their muscular physique. A diet that is high in protein, low in fat, and contains essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals is ideal for this breed. It is important to feed them a balanced diet to prevent obesity, which can lead to health issues like joint problems and heart disease.

Some Bordeaux dogs may develop food allergies, so it is important to monitor their diet and switch to a hypoallergenic food if necessary. It is important to provide them with fresh water at all times to prevent dehydration.

Exercise Requirements

Although Bordeaux dogs are known for their calm and gentle nature, they still require regular exercise to maintain their health. A daily walk or run is recommended to keep them physically active and mentally stimulated. They also enjoy playing games like fetch or tug-of-war, which can be a fun way to bond with your pet.

Bordeaux dogs are not particularly energetic, but they are powerful and can be stubborn. It is important to train them from a young age to follow commands and walk on a leash. They should also be socialized with other dogs and people to prevent aggression.

In addition to regular exercise, Bordeaux dogs require routine grooming. Their short, dense coat should be brushed regularly to remove loose hair and prevent matting. They may also require occasional bathing to keep their skin and coat clean and healthy.

Overall, Bordeaux dogs are low-maintenance pets that require moderate exercise and regular grooming. With proper care and attention, they can live long, healthy lives as loving companions.

Training a Bordeaux Dog

Training a Bordeaux dog is an essential part of owning one of these large and powerful breeds. Proper training is necessary to ensure that your dog is well-behaved, obedient, and happy. This section will cover some training techniques and behavioral training that can help you train your Bordeaux dog effectively.

Training Techniques

There are several training techniques that you can use to train your Bordeaux dog. These techniques include:

Positive Reinforcement: This technique involves rewarding your dog for good behavior. Rewards can include treats, praise, or playtime. Positive reinforcement helps to reinforce good behavior and encourages your dog to repeat it.
Clicker Training: Clicker training involves using a clicker to mark the behavior that you want your dog to repeat. Once your dog performs the behavior, you can reward them with a treat or praise.
Obedience Training: Obedience training involves teaching your dog basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. This type of training is essential for keeping your dog safe and well-behaved.

It is important to note that Bordeaux dogs can be stubborn at times. Therefore, it is essential to be patient and consistent with your training techniques. Consistency is key to ensuring that your dog learns and retains the training.

Behavioral Training

Behavioral training is essential for addressing any unwanted behaviors that your Bordeaux dog may exhibit. Some common behavioral issues that Bordeaux dogs may face include:

Aggression: Bordeaux dogs can be aggressive towards other dogs and strangers. It is important to address this behavior early on to prevent any potential harm to others.
Separation Anxiety: Bordeaux dogs can develop separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behavior such as chewing or digging.
Excessive Barking: Bordeaux dogs can be prone to excessive barking, which can be a nuisance to neighbors.

Behavioral training involves identifying the root cause of the behavior and addressing it through training and behavior modification techniques. This may involve working with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to develop a personalized training plan for your dog.

In conclusion, training a Bordeaux dog requires patience, consistency, and dedication. By using positive reinforcement, obedience training, and behavioral training techniques, you can train your dog to be well-behaved, obedient, and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of dog is a Bordeaux?

The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a large and powerful breed of dog. Originating from France, the breed was initially used as a guardian dog for livestock and property. They are known for their massive heads, muscular build, and short, eye-catching coat that is usually a richly colored fawn.

Are Dogue de Bordeaux dangerous?

Like all dogs, the Dogue de Bordeaux can be dangerous if not trained and socialized properly. However, with proper training and socialization, they can be excellent family pets. It is important to note that they are a powerful breed and require an experienced owner who can handle their size and strength.

What is the famous dog de Bordeaux?

The most famous Dogue de Bordeaux is probably Hooch, the lovable dog from the 1989 movie Turner & Hooch. Hooch was played by a Dogue de Bordeaux named Beasley, who became a fan favorite for his endearing personality and slobbering antics.

How much does a Dogue de Bordeaux cost?

The cost of a Dogue de Bordeaux varies depending on the breeder and location. On average, a puppy can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000. It is important to do research and find a reputable breeder who health tests their dogs and provides proper socialization and training.

Are Bordeaux dogs good family dogs?

Yes, Dogue de Bordeaux can be excellent family dogs. They are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners and can be great with children if socialized properly. However, due to their size and strength, it is important to supervise interactions between children and dogs.

What is the temperament of a Dogue de Bordeaux?

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a calm, gentle, and affectionate breed. They are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. However, they can also be stubborn and require consistent training and socialization. It is important to note that they are a powerful breed and require an experienced owner who can handle their size and strength.

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