The Dogue de Bordeaux is gentle, obedient and patient with a tremendous amount of affection and loyalty to his master and has trainability similar to German Shephards. They are devoted to their friends and family. They make an excellent family dog and should be viewed as a permanent member of the family as they will soon become one. The DDB is not generally hyperactive but as pups and young adults they are full of energy. The adult may seem lethargic but don't be fooled by the size, they are quick on their feet. They make a lot of noise breathing and are not endless runners. They are a quiet and subdued animal. They have a high energy threshold although they do not display it on a twenty four hour basis, making them easier to live with then many dogs a fraction of their size. In Europe they are commonly kept in apartments.
The Dogue adapts to its master's temperament as well. If the family is outgoing the dogue will be too. The same is true if the family is shy. The DDB is very sensitive to people's moods and events. They notice when change is coming or if there is stress in the family. Typically friends of the family may question the Dogue's ability as a guardian in response to his congenial nature. In contrast to its congeniality towards friends, this is amongst the world's most determined of guardian dogs. Often described as "the ultimate intruder's nightmare". Intruder's to the home that contains a DDB will undoubtedly encounter a package of size, strength and fiercely protective nature that is unexcelled in the world of dog's.
The Dogue de Bordeaux has relentless strength, is weary of strangers and can be inclined to intimidate. Dominant by nature, its original purpose was to fight and protect. To display dominance over other dogs is among the most definitive characteristics of the DDB. Socialization early in life is extremely important, even then , the dogue may be aggressive which is not a desirable trait, especially in a home with children or in the show ring. Ample amounts of both human and canine attention and interaction during critical phases of their personality and behavorial development is necessary. Depriving a DDB of this interaction can create fears in the animal later in life, when it is confronted by either lifeform. This fear can lead to violence, serious injury or death.
If the Dogue de Bordeaux is raised around other animals it usually adapts well to them but there is always the chance that the DDB with its dominant nature may turn and attack other dogs, animals or people. The DDB is very patient and tolerant of children moreso then most breeds but it is a mistake to fully trust any dog regardless of its size, breed, age, sex or normal temperament. A responsible person should never leave any dog and a child unattended. Careful observation of a dogs behavior around children is of vital importance. A dog that displays aggression towards children should never be trusted around children again.
The Dogue de Bordeaux has a keen sense of smell and hearing and are very intelligent and balanced. When bored it will be mischievous. Safe toys to chew on are recommended instead of your furniture. They are a product of their environment. If you force it to fight, it will fight. If you abuse it, it will be shy aggressive. If you kick it, it will fear shoes. They are stubborn and arrogant yet once they learn a command they rarely forget it. They will respect you but only if you give them the respect they deserve.
