Living with a Dogue de Bordeaux: My Slobbery Love Affair

Let me tell you, sharing my home with a Dogue de Bordeaux is like having a gentle, wrinkled, drool-dispensing boulder that thinks it’s a lapdog. 🤣 This French Mastiff, with the biggest head in the doggy kingdom and a heart even larger, isn’t just a pet—it’s a lifestyle choice, complete with industrial-strength drool rags and a profound appreciation for sturdy furniture. I knew I was in for an adventure when I brought home my own 'Hooch' (yes, inspired by that movie!), but nothing prepares you for the sheer, magnificent, slobbery reality of loving this ancient, rare breed. They look like they could bench-press a car, but really, they’re just giant, vigilant lovebugs who’d rather cuddle than conquer. Well, mostly. Don’t mess with their family!

🐾 The Big, Gentle Goofball: Temperament & Personality

Contrary to their intimidating 'French Mastiff' moniker, these dogs are total sweethearts. Devoted? Check. Even-tempered? Absolutely. Vigilant? You betcha—they’ve got my back like a furry Secret Service agent. They’re incredibly loyal and companionable, forming deep bonds with their humans. They’re generally patient with kids, but let’s be real: a tail wag from this 150-pound powerhouse can clear a coffee table faster than you can say "oops." Supervision is key around tiny humans! Their protective instinct is strong, but they’re not yappers. Seriously, do Dogue de Bordeaux bark much? Nope! They save their energy for important things... like napping and drooling. They can be wary of other dogs (especially same-sex) and might see cats as intriguing chase targets. Early socialization is non-negotiable!

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Yep, that face. You'll be wiping it... a lot.

⏳ A Breed Steeped in History (and Probably Drool)

This isn't some newfangled designer dog. The Dogue is one of France's oldest and rarest breeds, dating back to the flipping Middle Ages! 🏰 They were the OG multi-taskers: guarding chateaus, herding cattle, hunting boar, and even doing the grim bull-baiting thing. Talk about a resume! They nearly faced extinction a few times – a tragedy considering their awesomeness. Modern breeding really took off in the 1960s, but their big Hollywood break came in 1989 with Turner & Hooch. Tom Hanks dealing with slobber? Relatable content! While only AKC-recognized since 2007, their lineage likely connects to Bulldogs and Bullmastiffs. Fancy!

🏋️‍♂️ Keeping This Gentle Giant Happy & Healthy: Exercise & Training

Don't let the couch potato vibes fool you! These guys need their daily zoomies managed. Moderate exercise is key – think one solid 45-minute walk or a couple of shorter strolls. Fun activities include:

• Short hikes (watch the heat!)

• Gentle games of fetch

• Swimming (natural cool-down!)

• Scent work (engage that noggin!)

• Low-impact agility (maybe!)

⚠️ Crucial Warning: They are brachycephalic (smooshed face = breathing challenges) AND prone to joint issues like hip/elbow dysplasia. No marathon runs or jumping off couches! Walk at their pace. If they konk out mid-walk, you ain't carrying this behemoth home! Apartment living? Forget about it. They need SPACE.

Training? Start yesterday! An untrained Dogue is a 150-pound liability. Positive reinforcement is your best friend because they can be stubborn as a mule. Leash manners are ESSENTIAL – you need to control that power! Socialization from puppyhood is critical to manage potential dog selectivity or small animal chase instincts.

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Training: Not optional. Patience required. Treats recommended.

✨ Grooming: It's All About the Wrinkles (and the Drool)

That short, soft coat? Low maintenance! A quick brush with a mitt is usually sufficient. The real work? The Wrinkles. Those adorable face folds and body rolls are moisture and gunk magnets. If neglected, they become yeast infection central. Eww! My routine:

1. Daily Wrinkle Wipe-Down: Gentle dog wipes are my BFF. Dry thoroughly!

2. Bathing: Only 2-3 times a year max! Over-bathing irritates their skin.

3. Dental Care: Brush those chompers daily if possible! Big dogs = big dental bills otherwise.

4. Nails: Check regularly. Might need trimming.

5. Sun Protection: Yep, dog sunscreen on pink skin/noses! They can burn.

And the drool... oh, the drool. It’s legendary. It’s constant. It will be on your walls, your ceiling, your best shirt. Is the Dogue de Bordeaux an aggressive breed? Generally, no! But their drool? That's a weapon of mass destruction. Always have a drool rag handy. Duck when they shake! It’s just part of the brachycephalic package deal.

⚠️ Health Matters: What to Watch Out For

Let’s be upfront: Giant breeds often have shorter lifespans. For the Dogue, it's typically 5-8 years. Why? They grow fast, and their big bodies are prone to specific issues. Responsible breeding is VITAL. Common health problems include:

Preventative care, knowing your breeder's health testing, and a good vet relationship are non-negotiable. Feed multiple small meals (never one big one!) to help reduce bloat risk, and avoid exercise right after eating.

🍽️ Feeding the Beast: Diet & Nutrition

My grocery bill? Let's just say it rivals my mortgage. An adult male can polish off a 50-pound bag of dry food a month! That's 4-7 cups daily, split into two meals (free-feeding = bloat risk!). Key points:

• Large Breed Puppy/Kibble: Essential for controlled growth.

• Slow Feeder Bowls: Stop them inhaling food (also reduces bloat risk!).

• Food Allergies: Many are sensitive to wheat. Quality, wheat-free large breed food is a must.

• Weight Watch: Obesity strains joints and hearts. Monitor closely!

• Water: Always fresh and available... expect drool dilution!

Are Dogue de Bordeaux good family dogs? Yes, with training! But be prepared for the cost – they’re expensive to feed and insure!

🤔 Finding Your French Mastiff: Adoption or Breeder?

This breed is rare. Finding one in rescue is like winning the lottery, but check Dogue de Bordeaux Rescue. Reputable breeders are your most likely path. Expect to pay $1,400 - $2,500+, with show prospects hitting $5,000. ALWAYS use the Dogue de Bordeaux Society of America Breeder Listing Service to find ethical breeders who health test. Avoid puppy mills!

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The majestic (and slightly slobbery) profile.

👍👎 The Bottom Line: Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Unbelievably loyal & devoted companion ❤️

• Naturally protective & courageous (great guard dog!)

• Generally even-tempered & affectionate goofballs

• Surprisingly quiet (not big barkers)

• Short coat = easier brushing

Cons:

• DROOL. SO. MUCH. DROOL. 💦

• Significant food & potential vet costs (Ka-ching! 💸)

• Shorter lifespan (5-8 years)

• Can be dog-selective or small animal unfriendly

• Prone to serious health issues

• Needs space & dedicated training

• Wrinkle maintenance is a daily chore

People Also Ask

• Is the Dogue de Bordeaux aggressive? Generally, NO! They are protective guardians but typically gentle, docile, and even goofy with their family. Proper training and socialization are key.

• Why is the Dogue de Bordeaux lifespan so short? Giant breeds age faster. Their massive size and deep chest make them particularly susceptible to heart disease and other issues, contributing to a shorter average lifespan (5-8 years) compared to smaller dogs.

• Do Dogue de Bordeaux bark a lot? Nope! They are known for being relatively quiet. They save their energy for vigilance and, well, drooling.

• Are they good with kids? Yes, generally very patient and tolerant with proper training and supervision. Always teach kids how to interact safely with such a large dog.

🎬 The Final Reel

Living with a Dogue de Bordeaux is a commitment, a whirlwind, and a love story written in drool. They’re magnificent, heart-stealing giants who leave paw prints (and slobber trails) on your soul. They’re not for the faint of heart, the neat freak, or the budget-conscious. But if you have the space, the time, the dedication for training and grooming, and an endless supply of drool rags, they will reward you with unwavering loyalty and a unique kind of giant-sized love that’s absolutely priceless. Just... maybe don't wear your best suit around them. Just trust me on that.

Thinking a Dogue might be your soul mutt? Do your homework! 🐾 Talk to reputable breeders (check the DDB Society of America!), connect with current owners (ask about the real drool situation!), chat with vets familiar with giant breeds, and reach out to rescues. This isn't just a dog; it's a decade-long (hopefully!) adventure. Make sure you're ready for the ride of your life!