Pet Wiki

Dogue de Bordeaux

Also called French Mastiff, Bordeaux Mastiff, Bordeauxdog

A calm, even-tempered companion that is deeply devoted to its family and naturally watchful over home and people.

SizeGiant
Weight45 to 68 kg (99 to 150 lb)males 50 to 68 kg, females 45 to 54 kg12
Height58 to 68 cm (23 to 27 in)males 60 to 68 cm, females 58 to 66 cm13
CoatShort
OriginFrance, especially the Bordeaux area of Aquitaine.123
GroupPinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs (FCI group 2)
Recognised breedShort profile
loyal and affectionate
calm and balanced
natural guardian
134

Personality what they are like

A calm, even-tempered companion that is deeply devoted to its family and naturally watchful over home and people. Early training and socialisation help channel its strong will.132

Coat and looks how to spot one

short

A massive, powerful mastiff with a broad, wrinkled head and a fine, short coat that feels soft to the touch.13

Coloursfawn (mahogany to isabella)fawn with black maskfawn with brown maskfawn without mask13

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Dogue de Bordeaux. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
  • Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 6every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate; the Royal Kennel Club suggests up to about an hour of exercise a day.5

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short coat sheds regularly and needs brushing about once a week.5

Home where they are happiest

Suits a roomy home with a large garden; the Royal Kennel Club notes it is happiest with space, such as in the country.5

Company who they like around

Very people-oriented and devoted to its owner; sources describe it as good with children in its own family.34

The story where it all began

Mastiff-type dogs have lived in south-west France for centuries, and the word dogue was already in use in the 14th century. They guarded estates and vineyards, hunted large game and pulled loads. After the world wars left very few dogs, breeders led by Raymond Triquet rebuilt the breed from the 1960s.1325

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    The breed is often said to have the largest head relative to body size of any dog.2

  2. 2

    A female named Magenta won her class when the breed was first shown in Paris in 1863.2

  3. 3

    The 1989 film Turner & Hooch, starring a Dogue de Bordeaux, gave the breed a big boost in the United States.2

  4. 4

    Some Dogues have no mask at all and show reddish skin instead, which the standard allows.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Dogue de Bordeaux' comes from the French city of Bordeaux in the Aquitaine region, where these dogs were historically used for hunting large game and guarding. The word 'dogue' appeared at the end of the 14th century, and the breed was first exhibited under its present name at the 1863 Paris dog show.6

Name ideas for your new friend

GastonBellaMarcelColetteRemyOdettePierreFifiLouisCamilleBeauChantal

A day in the life told by a Dogue de Bordeaux

My day starts with a slow, happy groan as I roll off my big bed. My human scratches my jowls, and I give a soft, rumbly sigh. We take a gentle stroll around the block, I sniff every tree like it holds ancient secrets. Back home, I flop on my cool spot on the floor and watch the family bustle. When the kids come home, I wag my whole back end and let them lean on me. I keep a close eye on the front window, but I'm mostly just content. Dinner is simple, my bowl, my favorite time. Then it's back to my spot, dreaming of tomorrow's walks.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 116, Group 2, Section 2.1 Molossoid breeds, Mastiff type, without working trial; standard dated 23.01.2009.1
The Royal Kennel Club
Working group; not a vulnerable native breed.5
AKC
Recognised in 2008.2
UKC
Guardian Dog Group; recognised 1 January 1995.3

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Dogue de Bordeaux, and at what times?

Feed your Dogue de Bordeaux at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Consistent meal times help their digestion. For exact portions, check the food label and ask your vet.7

What should a Dogue de Bordeaux eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A high-quality dog food suitable for large breeds is ideal. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as listed by the ASPCA. Always consult your vet for a balanced diet.8

How often should I bathe a Dogue de Bordeaux?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests bathing every 56 days, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or has skin issues. Use a dog-specific shampoo.9 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Dogue de Bordeaux need brushing?

Brush your Dogue de Bordeaux about once a week to manage shedding and keep the coat healthy. Pet Wiki's plan recommends weekly brushing.59 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Dogue de Bordeaux's nails, and how often?

Trim nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, about every 28 days as a starting point. Cut a small amount at a time, avoiding the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer.9 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Dogue de Bordeaux need?

Your Dogue de Bordeaux needs moderate exercise, about an hour a day according to the Royal Kennel Club. Daily walks and play sessions keep them happy and healthy.5 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Dogue de Bordeaux's teeth and ears?

Brush your Dogue de Bordeaux's teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, ideally daily. Check ears weekly for moisture or dirt, gently wiping the outer ear; never insert anything into the ear canal.9 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Dogue de Bordeaux live?

Lifespan varies by individual; please ask your vet for breed-specific life expectancy.

Is a Dogue de Bordeaux good with children and other pets?

Yes, the Dogue de Bordeaux is known to be good with children in its own family, being calm and devoted. Early socialisation helps with other pets. Always supervise interactions.34

Can a Dogue de Bordeaux be left alone?

This breed is very people-oriented, so being left alone for long hours can be challenging. Ask a good breeder or your vet for specific recommendations.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. FCI Standard no. 116: Dogue de Bordeaux fci.beused for recognition, size, coat, colours, temperament, history
  2. Wikipedia: Dogue de Bordeaux en.wikipedia.orgused for AKC year, weight upper range, fun facts (secondary)
  3. UKC: Dogue de Bordeaux breed standard ukcdogs.comused for recognition, size, temperament, history
  4. AKC: Dogue de Bordeaux akc.orgused for temperament, history
  5. The Royal Kennel Club: Dogue de Bordeaux royalkennelclub.comused for group, exercise, grooming, space, history
  6. fci.be fci.be
  7. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  8. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  9. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.