Dogue de Bordeaux

Breed: Dogue de Bordeaux
Temperament: protective, loyal
Cost: from $1000
Lifespan: 8-12 years
Recommended for: enthusiasts According to breed notes, the word dogue first appeared at the end of the 14th century and is French for 'mastiff'. It is correctly 'dog', although some owners pronounce it to rhyme with 'vogue'.

A visually-spectacular breed, individuals range in size from 58-68cm (23-27") and weigh 45-50kg (100-120lb), so it's not hard to believe the Dogue de Bordeaux forebears are said to have accompanied gladiators into battle, and later battled each other in the name of sport.

Despite their violent history, breeders say the modern Dogue's temperament is usually placid but they can be very protective and loyal to their family. However, small children should not be left unsupervised with a Dogue - as one Net site described it: "Remember that even though the body is large, the mind is till young. It is common for a 7-month-old puppy to knock over ...a man while playing, or attacking!"

Health: Bone structure is a site of vulnerability: diseases such as hip dysplasia are known, while the jaw is undershot so teeth need to be checked by a vet regularly.

The wrinkled face means some dogs can have problems with entropion (rolled-in eyelids), while skin problems include mange. Care should also be taken to avoid feeding the dog immediately after exercise as, like many large-chested breeds, bloat is a risk.

Uses: In past centuries in France Mastiff-type dogs were used for hunting and guarding, as well as providing 'entertainment' fighting bulls, bears, and even jaguars. Even today the sight of an adult should be enough to deter would-be intruders. They make an affectionate family companion.

Breeding: There are usually 5-9 puppies in a litter. Newborn puppies may be crushed if their mothers sit or roll onto them.

Housepet potential: While breed enthusiasts do keep their Dogue de Bordeaux indoors, it may be considered too big to be kept inside by most people. Still, their comparative rarity and cost may change the mind of some new owners!

Space, training & exercise: Thorough training is vital for breeds as large as this. Early socialisation is another essential practice, and exposure to other dogs, under strict control, is also beneficial. A medium yard should be adequate and a daily walk of 30 minutes is recommended.

Grooming: Breeders advise a five-minute daily brush should remove loose hairs. Check daily for dust in the eyes, facial wrinkles and ears, and wipe out with a soft cloth when necessary.

Popularity: The Dogue de Bordeaux is considered rare, even in France. They arrived in Australia in 1994, and there are only about 200 Dogues here today.

Contact:

We filmed our story with breeders: Michelle and Terry Hangan
"Westfork"
Mail Service 268
Warra, Qld, 4411
Phone (07) 4668 1707. E-mail: arsenio@enter.net.au

Other interesting websites: members.aol.com/ddbsociety/DDBS/ and www.rarebreed.com/breeds/bordeaux

For other breeders contact the Canine Council in your State:

Victoria: Victorian Canine Association
PO Box K9
Ascot Vale, 3032
Phone: (03) 9376 2255
Fax: (03) 9376 1772

Queensland: The Canine Control Council (Qld)
PO Box 495,
Fortitude Valley, 4006
Phone: (07) 3252 2661

New South Wales: NSW Canine Council
PO Box 632
St Mary's, 2760
Phone: (02) 9834 3022

WA: The Canine Association of WA
PO Box 1404
Canning Vale, 6970
Phone: 08 9455 1188
Fax: (08) 9377 4412

South Australia: South Australian Canine Associaiton,
PO Box 844, Prospect East, 5082
Phone: (08) 8349 4797

Queensland: The Canine Control Council (Qld)
PO Box 495, Fortitude Valley, 4006
Phone: (07) 3252 2661

Tasmania: Tasmanian Canine Association
PO Box 116, Glenorchy, 7010
Phone: (03) 6272 9443

Northern Territory: North Australian Canine Association
PO Box 375321, Winnellie, 0821.
Phone: (08) 8984 3570

Copyright 1999 CTC Productions