Breeders of Dogue de Bordeaux & Presa Canario       

Dogue de Bordeaux

History

The Dogue de Bordeaux is probably one of the most ancient French breeds although it only became known by this name in the second part of the 19th Century. Gaston Fébus, the Count of Foix, whose book about gun dogs is famous, wrote in the 14 th Century about the Alan Vautres which were ancestors of the Dogue de Bordeaux.

Somewhat disappointingly, few historical details about the Dogue de Bordeaux exist before 1863. The first reference by its modern name appeared in a French show catalogue in that year, when one specimen of the breed was exhibited. The purpose of this show was more to exhibit different breeds rather than to judge dogs against their standard. In earlier days, this dog was called a Dogue or a Matin. The latter name comes from the same root as the word 'Mastiff' which is why the Dogue de Bordeaux is sometimes referred to as the French Mastiff.

By the end of the century the name Dogue de Bordeaux was better established. Originally, the Dogue de Bordeaux breed was kept for a variety of jobs including hunting fighting, guarding and pulling loads. Butchers used the to prevent steers from escaping and for pulling meat from the slaughter houses to their shops. During the First World War, some Bordeauxs even helped to drag injured soldiers to safety. Others have been used to hunt animals such as bores.

Unfortunately many Dogue de Bordeaux were also involved in deplorable dog baiting spectacles where they were made to fight dogs, bulls and even bears, simply for entertainment. It is sad to say that not only Dogues were put through this ordeal as many Molossers suffered the same fate.

General Appearance

Typical concave lined brachycephalic molossoid type (literally meaning short head), the Dogue de Bordeaux is a very powerful dog with a very muscular body yet well proportioned. Built rather close to the ground, the distance from the sternum to the ground is slightly less than the depth of the chest. A massive head with proper proportions and features is an important characteristic of the breed. A stocky and athletic build, and self assurance give the Dogue de Bordeaux a very imposing, dissuasive aspect. Bitches have identical characteristics, but less prominent.

Character & Temperament

An ancient fighting dog, the Dogue de Bordeaux is gifted at guarding, which he does with vigilance and great courage yet without aggression. A good companion, loyal to his master, affectionate, calm, balanced and a high stimulus threshold are just some of the fine qualities of the Dogue de Bordeaux. The male normally has a dominant character.

A Final Comment

As with all short faced Molossers, the Dogue is a breed which always had close ties with mankind. Used for hunting, guarding and fighting in wars and against other animals, the Dogue de Bordeaux's look alone is enough to deter. That this kind of dog may have descended from a prehistoric short-faced Borophagus or Aelurodon rather than a wolf or Jackel is a tempting hypothesis. This unfortunately remains an unproven part of the legend. It is however certain that this kind of dog, unlike many which tend to form packs, turns more readily to man. As Raymond Triquets puts it, "The Dogue de Bordeaux has a sour mug but a golden heart". This, along with an expression of tenderness and sweetness, makes it irresistible.