Dogue de Bordeaux Health & Longevity Guide
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a large, muscular French mastiff breed, often known as the French mastiff. Sporting a thick-set body, heavily boned legs and small paws, this breed stands up to 27" tall for males and 25.5" for females, weighing up to 52kg. Their coat is short, fine, and a distinctive deep copper red colour.
Initially bred for working roles such as guarding and pack carrying, today the Dogue de Bordeaux is primarily kept as a pet and is reasonably popular in the UK. This breed is admired for its handsome appearance, strong guarding instincts, and loyal, kind temperament. However, like all pedigree dogs, they are susceptible to hereditary health issues that affect how they must be cared for and impact their longevity.
Understanding Dogue de Bordeaux Longevity
The average lifespan is typically between 5 and 8 years, but recent UK data indicates an average around 11.1 years, which is just below the typical 12.7 years for purebred dogs. The oldest recorded Dogue de Bordeaux lived to 12 years, which highlights that exceptional longevity is possible with attentive care.
Genetic Diversity and Its Impact
The Dogue de Bordeaux has a coefficient of inbreeding of about 6.5%, slightly above the ideal threshold of 6.25%, showing moderate genetic diversity. This diversity is important as it helps sustain breed health and robustness by preventing excessive inbreeding. Ethical breeders should continue to prioritise low inbreeding coefficients to improve the breed's health outlook.
Key Conformation and Health Challenges
The breed's distinct physical features contribute to some specific challenges owners should anticipate:
- Significant drooling due to lip structure.
- Brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome impacting breathing and heat regulation.
- Risk of joint problems if the dog's weight exceeds leg muscle strength.
- Eye conformational issues increasing susceptibility to infections.
- Facial skinfolds that retain moisture and dirt, potentially causing skin infections.
Health Screening and Responsible Breeding
To reduce hereditary disease risks, several health tests are recommended for breeding Dogue de Bordeaux dogs:
- Hip score testing – the breed's average is 21.2, but breeders should select lower scoring dogs to improve mobility and reduce arthritis.
- Elbow score testing – ideally zero to minimise joint issues.
- DNA testing for multifocal retinopathy to identify eye disease risks.
- Recognition by the UK Kennel Club as a "high profile" breed, highlighting the need for careful health monitoring.
Other Common Health Issues
Dogue de Bordeaux dogs may also be prone to:
- Epilepsy, which requires veterinary management and is a reason to avoid breeding affected lines.
- Cruciate ligament issues causing pain and lameness.
- Ectropion, where eyelids turn outward causing discomfort.
- Dilated cardiomyopathy and aortic stenosis, serious heart diseases often seen in large breeds.
- Juvenile kidney failure (glomerulonephropathy).
- Immunodeficiency problems leading to respiratory and bacterial infections.
- Hyperkeratosis on paw pads, resulting in thickened skin areas.
Promoting Responsible Ownership
Considering a Dogue de Bordeaux means being prepared for dedicated and informed care. Responsible ownership includes sourcing from reputable breeders who prioritise health testing, maintaining routine veterinary care, providing suitable exercise and diet, and closely monitoring for early signs of hereditary conditions.
Conclusion
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a breed with a strong character and imposing presence, but its shorter lifespan compared to many breeds requires careful thought and commitment from owners. By understanding the hereditary health risks, employing responsible breeding and care, owners can help their dogs enjoy the best quality of life possible.
