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Understanding and Training a Dogue de Bordeaux

Although many Dogue de Bordeaux owners will attests to the fact that today's breed should be courageous without aggressiveness, this is still a descendant of the mastiff. Mastiff breeds have fighting bloodlines and are strong, protective & fearless, regardless of their gentle temperaments in the home and with the family. Therefore, owning a Bordeaux does require experience and a handler with excellent leadership skills who will exercise great care in provoking-type situations, including those involving dominant male dogs.

As a guard and companion, the Dogue de Bordeaux is very friendly & affectionate with family, but can be wary of strangers. To avoid both dangerous & uncomfortable situations, socialise this breed early and pro-actively with as many people, animals & environments as possible. Create positive experiences and reinforce all desired responses.

Less stubborn than most mastiff breeds, the Bordeaux is a cooperative learner. Introduce obedience early and never cease training and behaviour shaping. The Dogue de Bordeaux will respond well to reinforcements & consistency - not to mention attach themselves very tightly to their master and show-off their more soft & affectionate sides.

Breed Profile

Breed Name: Dogue de Brodeaux

Domestic Dog Group:

Brief Description:

General Size: 80 - 100 lbs (36 -45 kg); 58 - 69 cm
General Temperament: Fearless, Determined, yet Affectionate
General Description: As vigilant & courageous as a guardian, the Dogue de Bordeaux is equally known to be a big sweet, affectionate "softy" with those of whom are close.

Breed’s Key Traits

High Med-High Medium Med-Low Low

Requires Experience x

Good Family Dog x

Exercise Required x

Activity Indoors x

Ease of Training x

Sociability with Strangers x

Grooming Requirements x

Brief History

A descendant from ancient mastiff stock, the Dogue de Bordeaux is one of France's oldest dogs (also known as the French Mastiff), originally divided into three distinct breeds: Paris, Toulouse and the Bordeaux. It was used to hunt and fight large animals, such as bear and wild boar, and act as property guardian. The Bordeaux version survived several near extinctions before being re-invigorated in the 1960's & 70's. Today, the breed is still used as a guardian as much as an affectionate companion with aggression no longer a desired and bred character trait.