A Dogue de Bordeaux

First used in France for guarding and hunting boar and bear, the Dogue de Bordeaux also goes under the name of French Mastiff. Because for centuries the Bordeaux region of France was ruled by English kings, it is likely that the English Mastiff was used in matings with the large guard dogs of the region. The Spanish Mastiff may also have been included in this cross-breeding and the outcome was a powerful mastiff, which was then decidedly ferocious.

The head is huge and gives a pugnacious appearance, and the skull is broad, with an abrupt stop. Height ranges between 58 and 69 cm (23-27 in) and weight from 36-45 kg (80-100 lb) though it is often somewhat more. Colors include golden, fawn and mahogany with a distinct black or red mask. Although large and powerful, the breed is calm by nature.