Dogue de Bordeaux
The great head and greater heart of France's ancient guardian.
Vital stats
| Size | Giant · 58–68 cm |
| Weight | 45–65 kg |
| Life expectancy | 5–8 years |
| Energy | Moderate — 30–60 min/day |
| Shedding | Moderate |
| Coat | Short and fine · fawn to mahogany |
| Group | Working · FCI №116 / AKC |
Breed traits
Friendliness
Care
Mind
Temperament
An ancient French guardian of châteaux, butchers' stalls and cattle, the Dogue de Bordeaux long ago traded ferocity for gravitas. Today it is calm, watchful and deeply attached — a dog that guards by presence, moves only when it matters, and quietly follows its favourite person from room to room.
Habits & quirks
The head tilt
That vast furrowed face does world-class puzzled expressions.
Economy of motion
Why cross the room when a deep sigh will do?
The snore section
Sleep is loud, operatic and completely unashamed.
Leaning tower
Fifty-odd kilograms of affection will rest gently against your knees.
Care
| Heat | A short muzzle and huge mass make hot days dangerous — shade, water, and walks at dawn. |
| Health | Heart disease is the breed's chief enemy; choose screened parents and keep the weight down. |
| Exercise | Moderate, steady walks — and spare the joints during a giant breed's long puppyhood. |
| Drool | Prodigious. Keep towels by the door, the sofa, and probably the ceiling. |
Common questions
How long do Dogues de Bordeaux live?
Sadly it is one of the shortest-lived breeds, typically around 5–8 years. Heart screening, lean weight and careful breeding give the best odds.
Do Dogues de Bordeaux drool a lot?
Yes — among the drooliest of all breeds, especially around food, heat and excitement. If drool bothers you, this is not your dog.
Are Dogues de Bordeaux good with children?
Typically yes — they're calm, patient and devoted family guardians. Supervise around toddlers purely for size: an affectionate lean can flatten a small child.