The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a breed that exudes grandeur and strength with its impressive, muscular build and distinctive, expressive face. Originating from France, these dogs have been used historically for a variety of purposes including hunting, guarding, and pulling carts. Today, they are cherished primarily as companion animals known for their calm demeanor and steadfast loyalty. Despite their somewhat intimidating appearance, the Dogue de Bordeaux is deeply affectionate towards their family, showing a gentle side that belies their massive stature. Alongside these qualities, they display several unusual habits that reflect their unique personality and working heritage. These behaviors are not only intriguing but also endearing, deepening the bond they share with their owners. This article explores seven of the most unusual habits of the Dogue de Bordeaux, providing insight into each behavior and offering guidance on how to effectively manage these distinctive traits.
1. Profound Snoring
One notable habit of the Dogue de Bordeaux is their profound snoring. Due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) facial structure, they are prone to making quite a bit of noise while sleeping. This snoring can be surprisingly loud and is due to the restricted airways associated with their broad, short skulls. While generally harmless, it’s important for owners to monitor this trait to ensure that it does not indicate more severe breathing issues. Keeping them at a healthy weight and providing a cool, comfortable sleeping environment can help minimize discomfort and enhance their quality of sleep.
2. Excessive Drooling
The Dogue de Bordeaux is famous for its excessive drooling, especially after drinking water or around meal times. This behavior is characteristic of the breed due to their loose, fleshy lips and large jowls. Owners typically manage this by keeping towels handy to wipe their mouths and maintaining a drool mat near their food and water bowls. Regular cleaning of their facial wrinkles is also essential to prevent irritation or infection caused by moisture accumulation.
3. Guarding Behavior
Despite their laid-back nature, Dogue de Bordeaux can exhibit strong guarding instincts. This habit stems from their historical role as protectors of estates and livestock. They tend to be very territorial and may act reserved or cautious around strangers. Proper socialization and training from an early age are crucial to ensure that their protective nature does not become problematic. Encouraging positive interactions and controlled exposure to various people and environments can help them develop a balanced temperament.
4. “Head Pressing” Affection
Uniquely, Dogue de Bordeaux often shows affection by pressing their head against their owner or leaning their weight onto them. This behavior is a sign of trust and bonding but can be overwhelming due to their size. Teaching them from a young age to moderate the force they apply can prevent this behavior from becoming a nuisance or safety hazard, especially around children or the elderly.
5. Heat Sensitivity
Due to their thick skin and dense muscle mass, Dogue de Bordeaux are extremely sensitive to heat. They often seek out the coolest spots in the home and may become lethargic during hot weather. It’s important to provide them with a cool environment and limit their exercise during warm days to prevent heatstroke. Providing access to plenty of water and shady areas when outside is also critical for their well-being.
6. Reluctance to Swim
Unlike many large breeds, the Dogue de Bordeaux often shows a reluctance to swim. This habit might seem unusual given their size and strength but is common due to their heavy build and dense bone structure, which make swimming more challenging for them. Encouraging water play in shallow, safe environments can help them become more comfortable with water, though care should always be taken to ensure their safety.
7. Emotional Sensitivity
The Dogue de Bordeaux is exceptionally sensitive to the emotions of their owners. They are known to respond acutely to changes in the household mood and can become stressed or anxious if there is tension or sadness. Creating a stable, calm home environment and using positive reinforcement techniques can help manage their emotional responses and ensure they remain happy and balanced.
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a breed that combines majestic appearance with a complex array of behaviors that reflect their sensitivity and strength. By understanding and respecting these unusual habits, owners can foster a nurturing relationship with their dogs, ensuring that these gentle giants lead a fulfilled and joyful life. Each habit provides a deeper understanding of their nature and needs, highlighting the importance of thoughtful, informed care for these noble animals.
