Dogue de Bordeaux
Wrinkles, drool, and an almost ancient sense of calm — this is a dog that leans against your leg and stays there. One of the shortest lifespans in dogdom (5-8 years) means every year counts, so budget accordingly for vet bills and time. They're sweet-natured and loyal, but the jowls and the size aren't for the faint of heart.
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The Dogue de Bordeaux isn’t just a dog, it’s a force of nature wrapped in wrinkled skin and a heart the size of France. Originally bred to guard estates and pull carts in southern France, this breed carries centuries of purpose in its broad chest and low center of gravity. You’re not getting a lap dog, but you are getting a devoted companion who’ll follow you from room to room like a furry shadow with commitment issues toward personal space.
Day to day, they’re calm indoors, surprisingly quiet for their size, and happiest when near their people. Don’t mistake the laid-back vibe for laziness though. They need a solid 30 to 45 minutes of daily exercise, leash walks, not off-leash sprints, because their prey drive can surprise you.
Fetch in the yard works, but don’t expect a hyper Border Collie energy. Their energy level is a solid 3 out of 5. They’re smart, highly affectionate, and eager to please, which makes training a win if you’re consistent.
That said, they’re not for beginners. Their strength and stubborn streak mean you need to lead with confidence. Grooming?
Moderate, but don’t sleep on the drool. Short coat, yes, but it sheds year-round and those jowls, oh, the jowls. You’ll need towels near the water bowl and in the car.
Brushing twice a week helps, but wipe those facial folds weekly or you’ll invite infections. Health-wise, they’re not a long-term bet. A lifespan of 5 to 8 years stings, but it’s reality.
Bloat is a real threat, so feed multiple small meals and avoid exercise right after eating. Hip and elbow dysplasia, heart issues, reputable breeders screen for these, so don’t skimp on vet checks or pay less than $1500. That price tag?
It’s not just the pedigree. It’s the vet fund you’re prepaying. They’re best for experienced owners with space and steady routines.
Families with older kids do well, but toddlers underfoot can be a risk with a 110-pound dog who doesn’t know his own strength. Apartment living? No.
Hot climates? Double no. They overheat fast.
Here’s the thing most gloss over: their loyalty borders on obsession. They don’t just love you. They need you.
And if you’re not ready for that kind of emotional investment, look elsewhere.
14 traits, at a glance.
Every breed on PuppyBase is rated across the 14 trait dimensions the American Kennel Club publishes — from trainability to drooling level. The higher the score, the better the fit for that trait.
What to expect day-to-day
Things to screen for
- Bloat (GDV)
- Hip dysplasia
- Dilated cardiomyopathy
- Elbow dysplasia
- Brachycephalic airway syndrome
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Common questions
How long do Dogue de Bordeauxs live?
Dogue de Bordeauxs typically live between 5 and 8 years, one of the shortest lifespans among dog breeds, so expect to face serious health decisions earlier than with most breeds.
How much does a Dogue de Bordeaux puppy cost?
A Dogue de Bordeaux puppy usually costs between $1,800 and $4,500, with an average price around $3,000 due to their specialized breeding and health screening needs.
How much do Dogue de Bordeauxs shed?
Dogue de Bordeauxs shed heavily year-round, requiring frequent vacuuming and regular wiping down of furniture and floors.
What colors do Dogue de Bordeauxs come in?
Dogue de Bordeauxs come in fawn, mahogany, and Isabella, which is a pale fawn shade often mistaken for light tan.
How big do Dogue de Bordeauxs get?
Dogue de Bordeauxs are massive dogs, standing 23 to 26 inches tall and weighing between 99 and 110 pounds, with males typically on the heavier end.
Are Dogue de Bordeauxs smart?
Yes, Dogue de Bordeauxs are intelligent and respond well to consistent, patient training, especially when mental stimulation is built into their routine.
Are Dogue de Bordeauxs hypoallergenic?
No, Dogue de Bordeauxs are not hypoallergenic; they shed heavily and produce dander, making them a poor choice for allergy sufferers.
Are Dogue de Bordeauxs aggressive?
They're not inherently aggressive, but their strong guarding instincts mean they can be wary of strangers and other dogs without proper socialization from an early age.
What health problems are common in Dogue de Bordeauxs?
Common issues include bloat, hip and elbow dysplasia, dilated cardiomyopathy, and brachycephalic airway syndrome due to their short muzzles.
Do Dogue de Bordeauxs bark a lot?
They don't bark excessively, but they're alert and will vocalize to signal something unusual, making them effective watchdogs without being noisy.
Are Dogue de Bordeauxs easy to train?
They're moderately easy to train thanks to their intelligence and desire to please, but their stubborn streak demands consistency and positive reinforcement.
Are Dogue de Bordeauxs good family dogs?
Yes, they're deeply affectionate with their families and loyal to older children, but their size and strength make supervision around young kids essential.
Are Dogue de Bordeauxs good with cats?
They can coexist with cats, especially if raised together, but their strong prey drive means early introduction and careful monitoring are crucial.
Do Dogue de Bordeauxs have breathing problems?
Yes, their brachycephalic (short-nosed) structure often causes breathing difficulties, especially in heat or during exertion, requiring careful management.
Are Dogue de Bordeauxs good guard dogs?
Absolutely, they were bred to guard estates and remain highly protective, making them one of the most reliable natural guard dogs.
Can Dogue de Bordeauxs live in apartments?
They're not well-suited to apartment living due to their large size, need for space, and sensitivity to heat, which can worsen in confined environments.
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