Dogue de Bordeaux Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a massive, brawny French mastiff known for its enormous wrinkled head, rich fawn coat, and deeply devoted, protective nature. Bred as a guardian and working dog, it bonds intensely with its family and tends to be calm and even lazy indoors, yet it carries real physical power and a stubborn streak. This is a low-endurance breed that prefers short walks over strenuous exercise, and prospective owners should be prepared for heavy drooling, loud snoring, and the sobering reality of a notably short lifespan. Early socialization, patient training, and an experienced hand are essential to raise a stable, well-mannered companion.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
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Browse all puppiesWhere this breed shines
- Deeply loyal and naturally protective of its family
- Calm, low-energy demeanor while indoors
- Affectionate and gentle with the people it knows
Things to consider
- Notably short lifespan compared with most breeds
- Heavy drooling, snoring, and general messiness
- Can show dog aggression and needs experienced handling
History
The Dogue de Bordeaux is among the most ancient of French breeds, with mastiff-type ancestors used for centuries as guardians, hunters of large game, and cart-pullers. It nearly vanished after the upheavals of French history but was preserved by dedicated breeders. The breed gained wide public recognition in the United States after appearing in the 1989 film Turner and Hooch, and the AKC granted full recognition in 2008.
Temperament
Loyal, affectionate, and vigilant, the Dogue de Bordeaux is devoted to its family and naturally wary of strangers. It is generally calm and steady indoors but can be strong-willed and territorial. Consistent leadership and thorough socialization are needed to channel its guarding instincts.
Questions to ask a Dogue de Bordeaux breeder
- Are both parents OFA hip, elbow, and cardiac tested?
- What is the documented longevity history in your lines?
- How do you socialize puppies to support temperament stability?
Health considerations to discuss
Hip dysplasia. Educational, non-diagnostic; OFA hip screening recommended for breeding stock
Elbow dysplasia. Educational, non-diagnostic; OFA elbow evaluation recommended
Cardiac disease including dilated cardiomyopathy. Educational, non-diagnostic; echocardiogram by a board-certified cardiologist
Shortened lifespan. Educational, non-diagnostic; the breed is comparatively short-lived, so ask breeders about family longevity
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: AKC Dogue de Bordeaux breed overview · Dogue de Bordeaux Society of America (AKC parent club) · OFA health testing database — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Dogue de Bordeaux litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Dogue de Bordeaux puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Dogue de Bordeaux listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Dogue de Bordeaux breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.