The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a powerful and muscular dog breed with a unique charm. With its rich history, loyal personality, and stunning appearance, the Dogue de Bordeaux has captured the hearts of many dog enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the breed’s history, size, exercise requirements, personality, health concerns, care, feeding, coat colour, grooming, lifespan, and their interactions with children and other pets.
History:
The Dogue de Bordeaux boasts a long and storied history dating back to ancient times. It is believed that these dogs descended from the Molossus, a breed from ancient Greece and Rome. Throughout the centuries, the Dogue de Bordeaux has played various roles, including guard dog, war dog, and even competitor in the brutal sport of dog fighting. Thankfully, this breed has since shifted to a more peaceful existence, becoming a devoted companion and family protector.
Size:
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a large and muscular breed, with males standing between 23 to 27 inches tall and weighing around 110 to 140 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, standing between 22 to 25 inches tall and weighing between 90 to 120 pounds.
Exercise:
Though not as energetic as some breeds, the Dogue de Bordeaux still requires regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and overall well-being. A daily walk or short play session in a securely fenced area will suffice. It’s important not to over-exercise this breed, as their heavy build and predisposition to joint issues make them more prone to injury.
Personality:
The Dogue de Bordeaux is known for its loyal and affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their families and can be protective when needed. Despite their imposing appearance, these gentle giants are often described as “sweet-tempered” and “good-natured.” Early socialization and proper training are crucial to help your Dogue de Bordeaux develop into a well-adjusted and confident adult.
Health:
The Dogue de Bordeaux is prone to several health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, heart problems, and bloat. Regular veterinary check-ups and screening tests can help identify and address these issues early. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and providing appropriate exercise can help prevent some health problems.
Care:
Dogue de Bordeaux dogs require a moderate amount of care. Early socialization, obedience training, and mental stimulation are all essential to ensure a well-behaved and happy dog. They can be stubborn at times, so consistent and positive training methods are key to their success.
Feeding:
Feeding a Dogue de Bordeaux requires attention to their nutritional needs. A high-quality dog food formulated for large breeds will help support their growth and overall health. Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overfeeding, as obesity can exacerbate health issues in this breed.
Coat Colour:
The Dogue de Bordeaux’s coat is short, soft, and fine, with colours ranging from fawn to mahogany. They may also have a black or brown mask and limited white markings on the chest and toes.
Grooming:
Grooming a Dogue de Bordeaux is relatively simple, thanks to their short coat. Weekly brushing will help remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy. As with any breed, regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care are important aspects of grooming.
Lifespan:
The Dogue de Bordeaux has a relatively short lifespan compared to other breeds, averaging between 5 to 8 years. Providing proper care, nutrition, and exercise, along with regular veterinary check-ups, can help ensure your dog lives a long, healthy life.
Interacting with Children:
The Dogue de Bordeaux can be a wonderful family dog, with their gentle nature and loyalty to their loved ones. However, due to their large size and strength, it’s important to supervise interactions between young children and the dog. Early socialization and training can help your Dogue de Bordeaux learn appropriate behaviour around children.
Interacting with Other Pets:
The Dogue de Bordeaux has a natural instinct to protect their family and can be wary of unfamiliar dogs or animals. Early socialization and proper training can help mitigate any potential issues, but it’s important to supervise interactions with other pets, especially smaller animals.
Conclusion:
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a fascinating and loyal breed with a rich history and a unique charm. While they may require some extra care and attention, they can make wonderful family pets for those willing to put in the time and effort. With proper care and attention, your Dogue de Bordeaux can be a faithful companion for years to come.