Dogue de Bordeaux

The Dogue de Bordeaux

2008- New Breed Accepted by the AKC

A powerful and muscular French breed, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a molossoid (mastiff-type dog), "dogue" meaning Mastiff in French. A massive head and stocky body are trademarks of the breed. Americans became aware of the Dogue de Bordeaux when he appeared as drooling, messy "Hooch" in the 1989 Tom Hanks’ film, Turner and Hooch. The breed’s short, fine coat is fawn-colored, ranging from a dark red to a light fawn.

Listed In: Working Group - Guardian; hunter.

Ranging in size from 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and at least 99 pounds.

History

The Dogue de Bordeaux’s history is a mystery – different theories link him to the Bullmastiff, Bulldog, Tibetan Mastiff, and the ancient Dogues de Bordeuax of Aquitaine. In any case, the Dogue de Bordeaux has been used as a guardian, hunter and fighter. They were trained to bait bulls, bears, and jaguars, hunt boars, herd cattle, and protect the homes and businesses of their masters.

Temperament

The Dogue de Bordeaux possesses an instinct for guarding, which he does with vigilance and courage, but without aggressiveness. He is an excellent companion – affectionate and attached to his family – with a patient, calm temperament.

Upkeep

Their short coat is easy to care for and they require moderate daily exercise. New owners should be prepared to deal with drool!

Health:

• Major concerns: Bloat, Epilepsy, Cancer (Lymphoma)

• Minor concerns: drooling

• Occasionally seen: none

• Suggested tests: PH test (Penn Hip)

• Life span: 8 - 12 years

Form and Function

The Dogue de Bordeaux is one of the most ancient French breeds. He is a typical brachycephalic molossoid type. He is a very powerful dog, with a very muscular body yet retaining a harmonious general outline. Built rather close to the ground, the distance from the deepest point of the chest to the ground is slightly less than the depth of the chest. A massive head with proper proportions and features is an important characteristic of the breed. His serious expression, stocky and athletic build, and self assurance make him very imposing. Bitches have identical characteristics, but less prominent.

Disqualifications

- Mouth not undershot; wry jaw.

- An atrophied tail or a tail that is knotted and laterally deviated or twisted.

- White on the head or body, or any coat color other than shades of fawn.