Dog BreedsDogue de Bordeaux

Dogue de Bordeaux

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a large and powerful breed bred in France. Dogue de Bordeaux was known as a working dog. Dogue de Bordeaux fulfilled roles such as guarding estates, protecting livestock, and even assisting in hunting large game. It has a broad head with a distinctive and wrinkled forehead. A male Dogue de Bordeaux stands 24–27 inches at the shoulder, while a female is slightly smaller, ranging from 23–26 inches. As for weight, male Dogues de Bordeaux can weigh 110–145 pounds, and females typically range from 99–120 pounds.

How To Care For Dogue de Bordeaux

Dogues de Bordeaux are calm and have a gentle temperament. They are extremely loyal to their families and are typically patient and affectionate with children. However, they are not overly active. But, you must provide them with enough mental stimulation through interactive games like fetch to prevent boredom. This dog breed is easy to maintain and it requires low grooming needs. You have to only brush their short and dense coat to control shedding. But Dogues de Bordeaux can drool quite a bit, especially after eating or drinking, so keep a towel handy to wipe their face.

Dogue de Bordeaux Health Issues

Like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Responsible pet parents may consider pet insurance to help manage potential healthcare costs.

Hereditary Footpad Hyperkeratosis

“Hereditary Footpad Hyperkeratosis” is a condition where the footpad develops abnormally in a dog’s skin. Initially, dogs’ smooth footpads will harden, forming splits and cracks that can cause pain, lameness, and infection. Severe cases may result in difficulty walking. Dogue de Bordeaux puppies with footpad hyperkeratosis will begin showing signs at 4–6 months old. Unfortunately, there’s no cure for the condition. However, you can manage this condition by making your pup footbath, undergoing a keratin removal, using prescribed creams for cracks, and antibiotics for infections.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a common orthopedic issue in many large breeds, including the Dogue de Bordeaux. It develops the hip joint abnormally, leading to discomfort and a stiff gait. Pet parents can manage this condition by keeping their dog at a healthy weight. You may allow low- or moderate-impact exercise; and anti-inflammatory medications for pain as needed. In severe cases, your pup will have to undergo surgery.

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia, much like hip dysplasia, results from abnormal growth in the elbow joint. This condition can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis. Managing elbow dysplasia often involves a combination of strategies, including pain-relief medications, maintaining a healthy weight, and, in some cases, surgical correction to improve joint function.

Bloat and Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)

Bloat is a serious health issue in dogs where the stomach fills with gas. If the stomach twists on itself—a condition called gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV)—it becomes life-threatening. Watch for signs such as excessive drooling, retching, gagging, a swollen or distended abdomen, and reduced appetite. If you observe any of these symptoms, take your Dogue to a veterinarian immediately, as GDV requires urgent medical intervention.

Eye Conditions

Dogue de Bordeaux dogs often have large, droopy eyes that are prone to several issues:

  • Ectropion: This involves the eyelids rolling outward, which can expose the eye to irritation.
  • Entropion: In contrast, this condition causes the eyelids to roll inward, leading to discomfort as the eyelashes rub against the eye.

Regular eye checkups, lubricating drops, and, if needed, surgical intervention can help manage these conditions and keep your dog comfortable.

Skin Issues

The loose skin and folds of the Dogue de Bordeaux can be sensitive, particularly in hot and humid climates. These folds are prone to infections and allergies if not cleaned regularly. Preventive care includes regular bathing and cleaning between folds with pet-safe wipes to keep skin healthy and irritation-free.

Respiratory Challenges

Due to their short muzzles, Dogues de Bordeaux are more susceptible to airway issues, especially in warm weather. To help your dog breathe easily, avoid strenuous exercise during hot days and ensure they remain cool and comfortable.

Feeding a Dogue de Bordeaux

What to Feed

As a large and muscular breed, Dogues de Bordeaux benefit from food that contains 20–30% protein to support muscle health. Consider options with added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. Always choose food appropriate for their life stage—whether they are puppies, adults, or seniors—and consult your vet to select the best diet for your dog.

How to Feed

Establish a consistent feeding routine for your Dogue de Bordeaux:

  • Adult dogs: Feed twice daily.
  • Puppies: Offer meals three to four times daily.

Using slow-feeder or puzzle bowls can make mealtimes more engaging while preventing them from eating too quickly, which reduces the risk of bloat and GDV. Avoid exercise right before or after meals to further minimize this risk.

How Much to Feed

The amount of food your Dogue de Bordeaux needs depends on factors like age, activity level, and metabolism. While following packaging guidelines can help, consulting your veterinarian ensures a diet tailored to your dog’s specific needs. Always measure portions to prevent overfeeding and avoid leaving food out all day, as this can lead to obesity.

Nutritional Tips

Dogue de Bordeaux
Image-Source: extremedogfence

In addition to a balanced diet, certain supplements can enhance your Dogue’s health:

  • Glucosamine and chondroitin: Support joint health, especially important for large breeds.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish oil, these improve coat quality and boost the immune system.
  • Probiotics: Promote a healthy gut and aid digestion.

Before adding supplements to your dog’s diet, consult your vet to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Behavior and Training Tips

  • Personality and Temperament

Dogue de Bordeaux dogs are affectionately known as gentle giants. They tend to be calm, loyal, and patient, making them excellent companions for families, including those with children. While they are not overly energetic, they enjoy daily walks and playtime.

  • Behavior

This breed has a protective nature due to its history as a guard dog. While this makes them attentive to unfamiliar presences, it can also lead to barking. Early training and socialization can help manage this behavior and ensure they grow into confident and well-mannered pets.

  • Training

Training a Dogue de Bordeaux requires consistency and patience. Their loyalty makes them eager to please, but their protective instincts and occasional stubbornness may pose challenges.

  • Begin with basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” reinforcing positive behavior with rewards.
  • Prioritize socialization to expose them to various people, pets, and environments.
  • Leash training is essential to manage their size and strength.

Short, engaging training sessions are most effective for this breed. Teaching them to differentiate between regular visitors and strangers is also valuable.

Fun Activities

Dogues de Bordeaux enjoys a variety of activities, including:

  • Agility courses
  • Scent games and nose work
  • Fetch and tug-of-war
  • Swimming and short hikes
  • Puzzle toys and dock diving

These activities provide mental stimulation and light physical exercise, which aligns with their moderate energy level.

Grooming Guide

While the Dogue de Bordeaux’s short coat is relatively easy to maintain, their skin folds and wrinkles require special care.

  • Skin Care

Wrinkle Care: Regularly clean and dry folds to prevent irritation and infection.

Bathing: Use mild, dog-safe shampoos for occasional baths, and thoroughly dry their skin afterward to avoid moisture-related issues.

Sun Protection: Apply dog-safe sunscreen to exposed areas if your Dogue spends time outdoors in direct sunlight.

  • Coat Care

Brush their coat weekly to remove loose fur and maintain healthy skin. Professional grooming is not typically necessary, though nail trims and occasional professional services can be helpful.

  • Eye Care

Check for signs of irritation, redness, or discharge around their eyes. Clean the area gently with a damp cloth or vet-recommended solution. For issues like tear staining, use appropriate cleaning methods to avoid discomfort.

  • Ear Care

Inspect their ears regularly for signs of wax buildup, redness, or odor, which can indicate infection. Use a vet-approved solution for gentle cleaning, and ensure their ears are dry after swimming or baths.

By paying attention to their specific grooming needs, you can keep your Dogue de Bordeaux happy, healthy, and comfortable.

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