The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a dog of superlatives. He has the largest head in the canine world (relative to his body size), the most expressive wrinkles, and arguably the biggest heart.

He gained worldwide fame in 1989 as “Hooch,” the slobbery, chaotic, but lovable partner to Tom Hanks in the movie Turner & Hooch. While the movie exaggerated his destructiveness, it perfectly captured his personality: a massive, stubborn, drooling force of nature who is utterly devoted to his person. He is a powerful guardian who looks terrifying but is usually a calm, affectionate “couch potato” at home.

History and Origin: The Ancient Guardian of France

The Dogue de Bordeaux is one of France’s oldest breeds, dating back at least 600 years. His ancestors were the Alaunt dogs introduced to Europe by legions from the East. For centuries, the Dogue was a working dog of all trades. He was used to:

• Hunt: He took down wild boars, wolves, and bears.
• Guard: He protected the vineyards and castles of the French aristocracy.
• Fight: Sadly, he was also used in animal baiting rings.

Close to Extinction

During the French Revolution, many Dogues were killed alongside their aristocratic masters. The breed faced extinction again after World War II. By the 1960s, there were fewer than a dozen breeding pairs left in France. A concerted effort by dedicated breeders saved the Dogue, and he remains a national treasure in France today.

Physical Characteristics: A Head Like a Boulder

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a powerful, muscular dog built close to the ground. He is not as tall as the English Mastiff, but he is incredibly dense.

• Height: 23–27 inches (58-69 cm).
• Weight: 110 pounds (50 kg) and up. Males often exceed 150 pounds.

The Head

This is the breed’s defining feature. It is massive, broad, and covered in loose skin that forms deep wrinkles.

• The Mask: He often has a mask (black or brown) around the muzzle.
• The Jaw: He is undershot (the lower jaw extends beyond the upper), which contributes to his unique expression (and his drool).

The Coat

The coat is short, fine, and soft to the touch.

• Color: The color ranges from a rich mahogany to a golden fawn.
• Loose Skin: The skin is thick and loose fitting, especially around the neck, fitting like an oversized suit.

Temperament and Personality

Despite his fearsome appearance, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a lover, not a fighter.

The Calm Guardian

He is not a hyperactive dog. He is calm, balanced, and confident. He rarely barks without reason. If he barks, you should check it out. He is a natural guardian who assesses threats with a cool head. He does not attack indiscriminately; he stands his ground.

The Sensitivity

He is surprisingly sensitive. He is deeply attached to his family and can be prone to separation anxiety. He is not a dog who can be left in the backyard; he needs to be part of the household. He is gentle with children, though his sheer size means interactions should always be supervised.

The Stubborn Streak

He is not a Golden Retriever who lives to obey. He can be stubborn and arrogant. If you tell him to sit, he might do it… eventually.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise: Short and Sweet

He is not an athlete.

• Daily Needs: A few short (15-20 minute) walks a day are sufficient.
• Heat Intolerance: This is critical. His short muzzle (brachycephalic) and heavy body make him very susceptible to heatstroke. In summer, walks must be kept to the coolest parts of the day.
• Puppy Care: High-impact exercise should be avoided until he is fully grown (around 18 months) to protect his developing joints.

Training: Be the Boss

You cannot physically force a 150-pound dog to do anything. You must earn his respect.

• Leadership: He needs a confident leader. If you are inconsistent, he will take charge.
• Method: Positive reinforcement works best, but you must be firm.
• Socialization: Early socialization with people and other dogs is crucial to ensure his protective instincts don’t turn into aggression.

Health and Lifespan

The heartbreak of the Dogue de Bordeaux is his short lifespan. The average is 5 to 8 years. Loving a Dogue means accepting that his flame burns bright but fast.

• Bloat (GDV): The number one killer. A twisted stomach is a medical emergency.
• Heart Disease: Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Aortic Stenosis are major concerns.
• Cancer: Lymphoma and bone cancer.
• Joint Issues: Hips and elbows should be screened.
• Epilepsy: Can occur in some lines.

Grooming and Care

The Drool

There is no nice way to say it: The Dogue de Bordeaux drools. A lot.

• The Slime Factor: He produces “shoestrings” of saliva that end up on walls, ceilings, and your clothes. You will need “drool rags” in every room. If you are fastidious about cleanliness, this is not the dog for you.

Wrinkle Care

The deep folds on his face are cute, but they trap moisture and food.

• Cleaning: They must be wiped clean and dried daily to prevent bacterial or fungal infections.

Coat Care

• Brushing: A weekly brushing with a rubber mitt keeps the coat healthy.
• Shedding: He is a moderate shedder.

Is a Dogue Right for You?

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a magnificent animal, but he is a high-maintenance companion.

Yes, if:

• You want a devoted guardian. You want a dog that makes you feel safe.
• You have a gentle energy. You prefer a calm dog to a hyper one.
• You are at home a lot. He needs his people.
• You have a sense of humor. The snoring, drooling, and grumbling are part of his charm.

No, if:

• You are a neat freak. The drool is real.
• You want a jogging partner. He cannot handle sustained exercise.
• You have a tight budget. Big dogs mean big food and vet bills.
• You can’t handle a short lifespan. Saying goodbye so soon is incredibly hard.

If you can handle the mess and the heartbreak, the Dogue de Bordeaux will give you a love that is as massive as his head. He is a dog of ancient dignity and profound loyalty, a gentle giant who will watch over your family with his last breath.