Bordeaux Mastiff
The Bordeaux Mastiff, also known as the Dogue de Bordeaux, is one of France's oldest dog breeds. Despite its imposing, muscular build and distinctive wrinkled face, this breed is remarkably affectionate and gentle with its family, forming deep, loyal bonds with the people it lives with. It has natural watchdog instincts, yet is often surprisingly soft and clingy at home, content to spend quiet time with its people. Because of its powerful size and strength, though, training and handling require real experience and patience, making it a breed best suited to confident, experienced owners. Consistent exercise and a healthy diet are key to keeping this dignified giant in good shape.
View Bordeaux Mastiff encyclopedia →0% commission on your first sales!Register by September 30, 2026 and your first 2 sales are commission-free!
Breeder Wanted!
List on BreederDirect and sell directly to customers nationwide!
BreederDirect's 4 Trust Commitments
All puppy listings include full disclosure from verified Breeder. BreederDirect enforces legally-mandated standards for safe, transparent direct purchases.
- MicrochipRequired
- Vaccinated
- Health Exam
- Pedigree Certificate
※ Under Japan's Act on Welfare and Management of Animals (動物の愛護及び管理に関する法律; requirement in force since June 2022), animals listed by breeding businesses must be microchipped.
Before You Bring Your Pet Home: Checks & Guarantee Terms
Dogs & cats onlyFor dogs and cats, you receive an in-person explanation from the breeder and see the animal before bringing it home (Japan's Act on Welfare and Management of Animals). Health guarantees, dead-on-arrival guarantees and refund terms differ by breeder, so check the guarantee terms on the listing and in the contract. BreederDirect does not hold your payment and is not the party that provides guarantees or refunds.
Learn about transaction safety →Browse all 232 breeds
Verified breeders wanted for Dogs
Breeders are signing up now ahead of launch. Subscribe to be notified when new listings go live.
Getting alerts is free with a member account. When new listings match your saved search, we'll notify you by email and in-app.
Browse other categories
Verified breeders (preview)
Bordeaux Mastiff key facts
- Care level
- Advanced
- Lifespan
- 5-8 years
- Size
- Height 58-68cm / Weight 45kg and up
- Diet
- High-quality giant-breed dog food. Feed 2-3 smaller meals daily to help prevent bloat.
- Temperament
- A vigilant, courageous guardian. Devoted to its master, very affectionate and calm.
- Exercise
- 45-60 min walk daily. Avoid intense exercise on growing joints.
- Coat Care
- Short easy-care coat. Wipe facial wrinkles regularly.
- Origin
- France
- Notes
- Brachycephalic and highly heat-sensitive. Watch for hip dysplasia and gastric torsion.
About Bordeaux Mastiff
A guide to the Bordeaux Mastiff's temperament, care, and what new owners should know — a powerfully built yet deeply affectionate breed suited to experienced dog owners.
7 things to know before welcoming a Bordeaux Mastiff
1Needs Ample Living Space
Growing to 58-68 cm at the shoulder and over 45 kg, the Bordeaux Mastiff needs plenty of room to move both indoors and out. A house with a yard suits this breed far better than a small apartment.
2Training Requires Experience
Because of its strength and size, the Bordeaux Mastiff needs consistent training and clear leadership from puppyhood. This makes it a better fit for experienced owners than for first-time dog owners.
3Feeding to Help Prevent Bloat
High-quality food formulated for giant breeds should be fed in two to three smaller meals a day rather than one large one. Avoid feeding right after exercise, and stay mindful of bloat risk when planning mealtimes.
4Gentle and Affectionate at Heart
Despite its imposing build, the Bordeaux Mastiff is remarkably affectionate and gentle with its family. It often has a soft, cuddly side and thrives on close time with the people it loves.
5A Shorter Lifespan to Keep in Mind
The breed's lifespan is typically 5 to 8 years, shorter than many other dog breeds. Regular veterinary checkups and attentive daily care help make the most of the time you share together.
6Exercise Suited to Its Size
To avoid putting excessive strain on the joints supporting its large frame, moderate daily walks are generally preferable to intense exercise. This is especially important during the growth period.
7Preparing Your Home in Advance
Before bringing one home, set up sturdy, appropriately sized equipment such as a crate, bed, and secure fencing. If you have a yard, make sure any fencing is tall and strong enough to prevent escapes.
Frequently asked questions about Bordeaux Mastiff
- Q.Can a first-time owner keep a Bordeaux Mastiff?
- A.Given its large size and strength, this breed is generally considered suited to experienced owners. First-time owners are encouraged to seek guidance from someone familiar with training and handling large breeds.
- Q.How much exercise does it need?
- A.Gentle daily walks are generally more suitable than intense exercise. This is especially important for growing puppies, whose exercise should be moderated to protect their developing joints.
- Q.What should I watch for with feeding?
- A.A high-quality food formulated for giant breeds should be given in two to three smaller meals a day. To help manage bloat risk, avoid large single meals and feeding right after exercise.
- Q.What is its typical lifespan?
- A.The typical lifespan is around 5 to 8 years. Attentive daily care and regular veterinary checkups help support a healthy life throughout.
- Q.Is it suitable for apartment living?
- A.Since it grows to 58-68 cm at the shoulder and over 45 kg, a house with a yard suits this breed far better than a small apartment. Confirm your living space can comfortably accommodate a dog this size before bringing one home.
Useful tools for Bordeaux Mastiff care
Learn more about Bordeaux Mastiff in the encyclopedia
View Bordeaux Mastiff encyclopedia entry →
Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.
More in this category
Can't find the one you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and breeders with matching animals will contact you with introductions.