Dogue de Bordeaux Characteristics
As one of the oldest and most adored breeds in France, the distinctive Dogue de Bordeaux characteristics are what sets them apart from other dog breeds. They have grown in popularity all around the world and are well-known for their charming and mischievous nature, happily playing with their owners. But what exactly is so special about the Dogue de Bordeaux?
Dominant Characteristics of the Dogue de Bordeaux
As a large dog, the Dogue de Bordeaux is renowned for their protective instincts that kick in when they sense trouble. Some individuals believe that this is due to their background of working as guard dogs or hunting companions for families, but could also be attributed to their naturally stocky build. The Dogue de Bordeaux is also incredibly devoted to their owners and so are often brave when offering them protection from any danger. Due to this, they are often thought of as a loyal and vigilant pet.
This protective instinct is complemented by another characteristic of the Dogue de Bordeaux which is their affectionate and loving nature, despite their intimidating build and stocky frame. They love to be the centre of attention, receiving fuss and praise, and thoroughly enjoy the company of their owners. They have a very gentle and kind personality for such a large dog, and this is what makes them a great choice for families who have children.
Sadly, the Dogue de Bordeaux also has another side to them which is their unfriendliness when faced with other dogs, which comes from their territorial and stubborn nature. Do not be surprised when you find they become hostile when presented with male dogs and other canine playmates, particularly when they are in their own home. Because of this, a lot of dog breed experts advise you to introduce them to other dogs early on in their lives to increase socialisation.
A clear opposite to this difficult behaviour is the Dogue de Bordeaux’s characteristic of being lazy and laid-back when compared to other dog breeds. Whereas other dogs may beg for a lot of exercise in the form of long walks or playtimes, the Dogue de Bordeaux is more than happy with 30 minutes of activity per day before wanting a rest. Don’t take this as a sign that they are an easy choice for a dog though, as the Dogue’s size and mass mean that they are usually challenging to train and manage at an early age.
Overall, the most recognisable trait of the Dogue de Bordeaux is their outward appearance and aesthetic. On average, a Dogue can weigh between 99 and 110 pounds and have a shoulder width of 27 inches, resulting in them being one of the most impressive dog breeds to look at. Moreover, the short-haired mahogany and fawn coat is what sets the Dogue apart from others.