Dogue de Bordeaux.



Tess, a stunning Dogue de Bordeaux



The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff is a relatively short but stocky dog. They are easily noticed by their massive, heavy wrinkled head. There are a number of different theories about how the breed originated, possibly a descended from Mastiffs brought to Europe by the Alans or bred down from the Bulldog. They were used at the end of the middle ages as personal bodyguards and cattle drivers. Their numbers dropped quite significantly during the French Revolution but Raymond Triquet and his French Dogue de Bordeaux club saved the breed. Throughout the years they have served as war dogs, flock guardians, cattle hearts and baited bulls, bears and jaguars.

The Dogue is a good temperament, calm breed that is extremely loyal and devoted to their family. Their fearless and confrontational courage makes them first class watch and guard dogs, while their appearance alone tends to do the trick. They need to be socialized well from a young age, especially with other dogs to avoid aggression later on. They are very gentle and patient with children and settle great into a family environment. They are a very powerful dog and do require a strong, calm pack leader, as with all breed don’t allow the Dogue to ever believe they are in charge.

They do require long daily walks, to keep them both physically and mentally stimulated. They are quite inactive indoors but would only suite apartment living if taken daily for walks. Grooming is very simple, their short coat maintains itself and they are average shedders. They are prone to hip dysplasia and being such a solid dog a high quality diet is required. They generally grow to 58 – 75 cm tall and can weight anywhere between 54kg – 65.2 kg.

and her mate Roy.