Are Dogue de Bordeaux Good Family Dogs?
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also referred to as a French Mastiff, is an intimidating looking breed at first glance. But behind that muscular exterior lies a devoted companion who aims to please their family. Are Bordeaux Dogs good with kids and suitable family pets? Let's explore their temperament and traits that make them a popular dog for many households.
Bordeaux Dog Temperament
The typical Bordeaux has a gentle, calm temperament making them well-suited to family life.
Devoted - They bond very closely with their family. Sweet and affectionate. Desire to always be close to their people.
Calm - Meet new experiences with composure. Generally not highly excitable. Have an easygoing nature when properly exercised and socialized.
Patient - Tolerate children's antics. Put up with poking, prodding, pulling ears with little reaction.
Loyal - Form intense bonds. Protective of family members, especially children who they view as subordinates in their pack.
Courageous - Brave dogs who put themselves between family and perceived threats. Willing to defend if needed.
Intelligent - Eager to please. Respond well to training when started young.
Independent - Mature Bordeaux Dogs are content to relax alone at times. Not overly demanding of attention.
Are Bordeaux Dogs Good With Kids?
Properly socialized Bordeaux Dogs generally do very well with children. Recommendations when adding a Bordeaux to a family with kids:
- Start socialization early and introduce puppy to a wide range of children. Reward calm interactions.
- Closely supervise all interactions, especially young kids who may accidentally harm a puppy.
- Teach children proper handling skills - no tail/ear pulling, poking eyes, rough play.
- Set boundaries like no riding dog like a horse or disturbing when eating.
- Allow dog an escape space when needing time away from kids. Crate or room that is off-limits.
- Maintain training throughout adolescence as protective instincts increase.
With preparation and training, most Bordeaux thrive in homes with respectful children who give them loving attention.
Benefits of Bordeaux Dogs for Families
There are many advantages to the Bordeaux Dog's loyal temperament in a family environment:
Companionship - Adore being around their people as much as possible. Provide loving company for kids and adults alike.
Tolerance - Put up with typical antics of children and new routines with patience when properly socialized.
Playfulness - Enjoy short lively play sessions with kids. Can run around backyard engaging in chase. Fetch enthusiast.
Guardian - Naturally protective of their family and territory. Serve as a security system with their intimidating presence.
Training - Respond well to firm, positive training. Can master good manners and obedience skills for safety around children.
Confidence builder - Their steady, non-reactive nature instills confidence in timid or anxious kids. Help kids overcome fears.
The Bordeaux's blend of affection, tolerance, protectiveness, and trainability make them ideal family companions.
Potential Downsides of Bordeaux Dogs as Family Pets
While generally excellent family dogs, there are a few considerations with the breed:
- Large size - Can unintentionally knock over small children. Supervision is a must.
- Stubbornness - Selective hearing when training. Persistence and consistency required.
- Slobber - Drooling issues. Can leave messy slime on walls, furniture, people.
- Guarding - May show aggression to strangers approaching family members if not properly socialized.
- Prey drive - Can have high prey drive toward small pets like cats, rabbits, etc. Manage carefully.
- Exercise needs - Require at least daily long walks. Can become destructive if under-exercised.
- Heat sensitivity - Prone to overheating. Not ideal for intense hot climates.
While minor downsides exist, they are easily managed in most family contexts.
Tips for Successfully Adding a Bordeaux to Your Family
Follow these tips to start off on the right paw when bringing home a Bordeaux Dog:
- Select a puppy from lines bred for stable temperament. Meet parents if possible.
- Start socialization immediately, exposing puppy to kids, strangers, noises. Reward calm responses.
- Enroll in "puppy manners" group classes for early training around children.
- Childproof your home and teach kids to leave dog alone when eating/sleeping.
- Exercise dog daily to prevent boredom and destruction. Interactive toys are great too.
- Be patient through the puppy chewing phase - provide lots of toys.
- Establish a routine and rules from the start. Be firm, consistent pack leader.
With training and socialization, Bordeaux Dogs become devoted protectors who adore families with children. Their brave and loyal nature makes them a wonderful addition to most households.