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Dogue de Bordeaux
Dogue de Bordeaux
Origin
France
Size
Large Breed
Ideal Space
Independent House
Ideal Weather
15º-25ºC
Life Expectancy
8-12 years
Cost of buying
₹ 2,50,000 - ₹ 5,00,000
Top 5 Traits
Loyal
Protective
Disciplined
Fearless
Intelligent
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 4,900 - ₹ 7,650
by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 28 Aug 2025
Meet the Dogue de Bordeaux: France’s Gentle Giant with a Heart for Families
If you’ve ever wished for a dog that looks like a bodyguard but acts like a cuddly best friend, the Dogue de Bordeaux—often called the French Mastiff—might be the one. This muscular breed has been around since medieval France, where it was prized for guarding estates, pulling carts, and even hunting large animals. Today, the American Kennel Club describes the breed as loyal, affectionate, and courageous, qualities that make it an excellent family dog.
Characteristics
Barking
Quiet
Loud
Temperament with Kids
Aggressive
Friendly
Playfulness
Silent
Very Playful
Friendliness
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Compatibility with other dogs
Aggressive
Friendly
Need for attention
Independent
Very Needy
Monthly Expenses
Lifespan & Price in India
Cost of buying
₹ 2,50,000 - ₹ 5,00,000
Dogue de Bordeauxs typically live 8–10 years, which is shorter than many other breeds, largely due to their giant size and health predispositions, according to the Kennel Club.
Prerequisites to pet a Dogue de Bordeaux
Access to Veterinary
Lifestyle Compatibility
Financial Capability
Space and Environment
Willingness to train
Shop or Adopt a Dogue de Bordeaux: Tips for India
Adoption is rare but not impossible—some rescues occasionally get large breeds abandoned due to their high care needs. Checking with city-based NGOs like CUPA Bengaluru or RESQ Pune is worth a try.
Nutrition Care for Dogue de Bordeaux
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 3,000 - ₹ 4,500
Calories per day
Puppies: 1800 kcal
Adults: 1700 kcal
Essential Nutrients
Protein
Fats
Carbohydrates
Fibre
Vitamins
Minerals
List of foods
Dry Dog Food
Fresh Meat
Vegetables
Chicken
Fresh Fish
Home made meals
The Dogue de Bordeaux may look like a massive couch potato, but don’t be fooled—this giant mastiff has unique nutritional needs to stay healthy. Traditionally bred as guardians and working dogs in France, they are powerful yet surprisingly gentle. Their diet in India should focus on joint health, weight management, and skin care, since their short noses, large size, and wrinkled faces make them prone to health issues. The American Kennel Club recommends a high-quality, balanced diet for this breed, while VCA Animal Hospitals highlights that obesity is one of the biggest risks for giant breeds like the Bordeaux.
Breakdown of Macro-nutrients
Best Foods for Dogue de Bordeaux in India
- Premium Kibble: Large-breed formulas like Royal Canin Giant, Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain, or Orijen Large Breed are better suited for their size and slower metabolism.
- Home-Cooked Meals:
- Chicken + pumpkin + brown rice + spinach
- Mackerel or sardine + sweet potato + beans
- Egg + oats + carrots
- Supplements: Omega-3 for skin and joints, glucosamine for mobility, and probiotics for digestion—always under veterinary advice.
Never feed these foods to Dogue de Bordeaux
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Alcohol
Almonds
Avocados
Cherries
Cinnamon
Coffee / Tea
Dairy
Fruit seeds
Garlic
Lemon
Milk Products
Mushrooms
Onions
Salt
Sugar
Because of their sensitive digestion and tendency to gain weight, avoid:
Health
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,950
Common Health Issues
Bloat
Hip Dysplasia
Heartworm
Parasites
Panosteitis
Canine distemper
Parvovirus
Leptospirosis
Well being
Exercise
Bonding
Games
Socialization
Hiking
Energy Level
Medium
Exercise routine
45 - 60 minutes
Recognising Stress
Changes in appetite
Excessive Panting
Reluctance to move
Increased laziness
Decreased play
Excessive Barking
Pacing
Healthcare for the Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux—often called the French Mastiff—is a powerful, affectionate giant that forms deep bonds with its family. With proper care, they typically live 8–10 years, though some may live longer if health is carefully managed. According to the American Kennel Club, this breed is generally healthy but, like many large dogs, is prone to certain hereditary and structural conditions. Since Dogues are still rare in India and often imported, choosing a breeder who provides health screening certificates (especially for heart and joint conditions) is critical.
Vaccination details
Growth Stage
Core Vaccines
6-8 Weeks
Distemper, Parvovirus
10-12 Weeks
DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
12-16 Weeks
Leptospirosis, Lyme Disease
14-16 Weeks
DHPP, Rabies
Anually
DHPP, Rabies, Leptospirosis, Lyme Disease
Recommendations to care for senior Dogue de Bordeaux dogs
Because giant breeds age faster, Dogues are considered seniors by the age of 6 years. At this stage:
Grooming Routine of the Dogue de Bordeaux
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 700 - ₹ 1,200
Shedding Level
Moderate Shedding
Hygienic Checklist
Bathing
Brushing
Ear Cleaning
Nail Trimming
Eye Care
Teeth Care
Benefits of Grooming
Cleanliness
Low Shedding
Prevents Bad Breath
Prevents infections
Quality of life
Odourless
The Dogue de Bordeaux may look like a rugged giant, but when it comes to grooming, they’re surprisingly low-maintenance. Their coat is short and fine, as described by the American Kennel Club, which means you won’t be dealing with heavy shedding like you would with fluffy northern breeds. A quick brushing once or twice a week with a rubber curry brush is usually enough to remove loose hairs and keep their skin healthy.
Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dogue de Bordeaux prone to health issues?
Like many large breeds, Dogue de Bordeaux are prone to certain health issues, including bloat, hip dysplasia, heart conditions, and joint problems. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper exercise can help mitigate these risks.
Do Dogue de Bordeaux drool a lot?
Yes, Dogue de Bordeaux are known for their tendency to drool, especially after eating or drinking. Keeping a towel handy to wipe their drool can help manage this characteristic.
What is the temperament of a Dogue de Bordeaux?
Dogue de Bordeaux are known for their loyalty, affection, and protective nature. They are gentle giants who are devoted to their families but can be wary of strangers. Proper socialization and training are essential to ensure they remain well-mannered and balanced.
