Temperament:
Breeders have softened the temperament of this dog quite a bit from his original ferocity. Today the Bordeaux has a good and calm temperament. It is extremely loyal, patient and devoted to his family. Fearless and confrontational with strangers, he is a first class watch and guard dog. This breed can be very aggressive with other dogs. Socialize very well with other animals from an early age. The Dogue de Bordeaux snores and drools. Males will not tolerate other males. Despite his fearsome appearance, the Dogue de Bordeaux is gentle with children and family members. However this is a powerful animal, and is not suitable for an inexperienced dog owner.

Grooming:
Very little is needed. This breed is an average shedder.

Exercise:
Needs lots of exercise. They need to be taken on a daily, long walk.

Living Condition:
This breed will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are very inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Origin:
There are numerous hypotheses about the origin the Dogue de Bordeaux. It may be descended from the Greek and Roman Molossus, from mastiffs brought to Europe by the Alans, from the dogs of Aquitaine or from Spanish dogs from Burgos. The Dogue de Bordeaux has had many uses over his long history. The breed has served as a war dog, and flock guardian, and as a combatant in dog gladiator sports where he was pitted against bulls, bears and other dogs. At the end of the middle ages, he became a cattle driver and personal bodyguard. During the French Revolution, many dogs who tried to defend their noble master's estates were killed. Luckily, enough interest remained in the breed to guarantee its continued existence. Raymond Triquet and his French Dogue de Bordeaux Club saved the breed. The Dogue de Bordeaux is now thoroughly established in France and gaining popularity in other countries. There are currently around 3000 Bordeaux in the United States. The breed is recognized by the FCI, but is not yet recognized by the AKC.