Description: The Dogues de Bordeaux is a sturdily built, strong dog. This dog has a rather massive head that is wrinkled over the face. The muzzle is somewhat shortened and the jaw is undershot. The Dogues de Bordeaux is said to have the largest head of any breed of dog, proportional to its body. It is a very strong dog. This dog will be from 23 to 30 inches at the withers and weigh between 90 and 145 pounds, with the females being smaller. The coat of the Dogues de Bordeaux is always in a shade of red, from fawn through mahogany. A black mask is sometimes, but not always, present. This dog will generally live for 10 to 12 years. It is also called the French Mastiff.

History: It seems most likely that the Dogues de Bordeaux was developed into the form with which we are familiar in the French region of Aquitaine. While it was occupied by the English in the 14th century, the local mastiff type was bred with the English Mastiff. It is thought that some blood from the Spanish Mastiff was added at a later time. This dog was used for many purposes, from war to pulling carts. The Dogues de Bordeaux nearly became extinct at the time of the French Revolution because many of the dogs were killed while defending their owners. The dog was rescued from this fate by Raymond Triquet and his club which was dedicated to the Dogues de Bordeaux.

Temperament: The Dogues de Bordeaux is a dog that bonds extremely strongly with its human family. It is a trait of Mastiffs in general that they do not from pack associations like most dogs. Because of this propensity, this dog will favor relationships with humans over those with other dogs. Anyone who owns a French Mastiff will be aware of how close the dog will be to them. This dog does very well with children and will patient and calm with them. The Bordeaux develops into a very strong and powerful dog, however, and must be taught its place in the human family. It should be socialized with other animals while young.

Health Issues: The Dogues de Bordeaux, as a large breed, can suffer from hip dysplasia. Cancer can occur in this breed as well. A more immediate problem can be difficulty with whelping. The large head of the puppies will often necessitate a caesarian section. Epilepsy has also shown up in some lines.

Grooming: It is recommended that instead of brushing or combing the short coat of the Bordeaux, that a grooming glove be used. This will remove dead hair and leave the coat looking good. More attention must be given to the facial wrinkles, however. These should be washed out and dried regularly to prevent irritation or infection. As this dog drools, it is a good idea to keep a towel handy to remove excess slobber.

Living Conditions: The Dogues de Bordeaux is not an outside dog either psychologically or physically, it should be in the house with its human family. It is dependent emotionally on its humans. This dog can live in an apartment as long as it is given a walk every day. This dog's exercise needs are not great, but it does need to stretch its legs on a regular basis.