Dogue de Bordeaux
The Canine Body Guard
Information and History
Sometimes referred to as the French mastiff, the Dogue de Bordeaux falls into a group of dogs classified as the molosser, descendants of the molossus. A dog that lived approximately 700 BC., the molossus were kept as guard and hunting dogs by the Assyrians.
Originally used for cattle droving and guarding the Vineyards in Bordeaux, this French warrior has survived near extinction. Characterized by the largest, most magnificent head in dog Dom with a wrinkled face and large paws. The impressive presence of the Dogue is a great deterrent to thieves. Despite his intimidating appearance, the Dogue is a charmer who loves to be with people, especially children!!
Temperament
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a powerful muscular dog that makes an excellent guard to both person and property. Like all molossus-type dogs, the Dogue has strong nerves and not easily excited. Its personality is balanced, quiet and calm. Not very rowdy. Not given to unnecessary barking unless sufficient reason....such as an intruder. The Dogue de Bordeaux is a charming breed that is very warm and friendly to humans. It is a very good with children, a companion that has plenty of patience and will tolerate typical teasing such as tail pulling and other things which undisciplined children tend to engage. Dogues are happy to be with their children and be part of their games, such as dress up time, and lets play dog show.
Health Concerns
The dogue de Bordeaux is a fast growing dog. As a result puppies can sometimes suffer from what is called Eosinphilic panosteitis or Pano, or better known to us as 'growing pains' Pano is an acute lameness unrelated to trauma. It might shift from one location to another as the pup grows.
Like most large boned dogs, hip dysphasia is a common problem of the breed. The Dogue de Bordeaux is supposed to be a athletically fit dog, with powerful, muscular legs. Any Dogue that does not fit this description should not be considered for breeding.
Dogues can suffer from skin diseases. Demodex mange is the result of a mite that lives on the dog and compromises the dog when the immune system is low. This problem is often found with Dogues coming in as rescues in poor living conditions.
Dogues, as with many of other large, deep chested, breeds are prone to bloat.... a twisting of the stomach that can lead to death. Although experts are not sure as to the exact causes, it is believed that excessive exercise and excitement after eating and drinking can cause bloat. Bloat is commonly traced to the dogs gulping air that gets caught in the stomach. To prevent this, avoid feeding your Dogues immediately before or after exercise. DO NOT fill a huge bowl of food and leave there all day.
Special Note: The Bordeaux is very sensitive to anesthesia. A 'normal dose' can be lethal. Take extra special care in choosing a veterinarian who is familiar with the breed.
The Dogue lives on an average of 7 to 10 years.