Origin
France
Lifespan
5–8 years
Weight
54–65 kg
Height
58–69 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Fawn · Mahogany · Red
Dogue de Bordeaux
About This Breed
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a powerful French mastiff recognized by its massive head—the largest in proportion to body in the canine world. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are affectionate, loyal, and surprisingly gentle with families.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Dogue de Bordeaux
Origin
| Origin | France |
| Group | Working |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 54–65 kg |
| Lifespan | 5–8 years |
| Height | 58–69 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Fawn · Mahogany · Red |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Loyal · Devoted · Courageous · Gentle |
Usually fairly calm, but still needs daily play and activity.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Usually needs relatively little coat care. Brush as needed for its coat and shedding.
Some shedding is expected, and it may change with the season.
Living together
May need extra time to settle into a new home. Keep changes gradual.
Teach children to handle it gently and leave it alone when it rests.
Introductions to other pets may take time. Provide separate spaces.
Training and activities
Practice in short sessions and reward the behavior you want.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the Bordeaux Mastiff or French Mastiff, is a large and powerful breed that originated in France. Historically, the Dogue de Bordeaux was mainly used as a working dog, fulfilling roles such as guarding estates, protecting livestock, and even assisting in hunting large game. The breed’s lineage can be traced back to the 14th century, and they gained popularity in the Bordeaux region of France. A tall and muscular dog, the Dogue de Bordeaux has a broad head with a distinctive and wrinkled forehead.
Care Guide
Dogues de Bordeaux are known for their calm and gentle temperament. They are extremely loyal to their families and are typically patient and affectionate with children. While Dogues enjoy daily walks and playtime, they are not overly active. But providing mental stimulation through interactive games like fetch is important to prevent boredom. Grooming needs are relatively low for this breed; they have a short, dense coat that requires weekly brushing to keep shedding under control. But Dogues de Bordeaux can drool quite a bit, especially after eating or drinking, so keep a towel handy to wipe their face.