Dogue de Bordeaux Info & Dogue de Bordeaux Breeders

Potential health Issues in the Dogue de Bordeaux

Responsible breeders will health test all of their dogs for hereditary diseases and problems.   The Dogue de Bordeaux Club of Australia strongly recommend that you only purchase from health tested parents, and if possible grand-parents.  

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: As with most large breeds, the Dogue de Bordeaux can suffer from both of these painful conditions that can be due to genetic and/or environmental factors.   Hip dysplasia can lead to lameness and arthritis and responsible breeders will hip score to ensure suitability prior to breeding.  Always ask for hip scoring reports and seek advice from your vet or an experienced breeder or club to interpret the reports.

Elbow dysplasia is just as common as hip dysplasia and while not discussed as often, it is just as important.  In deep chested breeds like Dogues, most of the body weight is carried over the front of the body on the forelegs.   A dog with elbow dysplasia can suffer lifelong pain and discomfort.  In some cases dogs simply cannot carry their weight and are euthanazed due to crippling displaysia.    The true cost of not taking health testing seriously can mean a life of pain and heartache, for you, your family, and your dog, not to mention thousands of dollars in veterinary bills.   The cost of joint replacement is around $6000. 

The Dogue de Bordeaux Club of Australia urges that all owners and breeders place as much importance on Elbow Scoring as Hip Scoring.  After all the dog does have FOUR legs.

Eye Entropion: The wrinkled face characteristic of the Dogue can lead to issues with entropion (rolled-in eyelids).  The condition can lead to irritation or injury of the eyeball. Signs of entropion can include rubbing or scratching the eye area.   Entropion can be treated surgically if necessary.

Bloat:  Care should also be taken to avoid feeding Dogues immediately after exercise as, like many large-chested breeds, the Dogue de Bordeaux can also be prone to bloat - twisting of the stomach, which can lead to death.  After exercise don’t supply them with excessive amounts of water.  Ensuring they always eat from an elevated bowl can also help reduce the risk of bloat.  

Other issues: Cancer and heart disease are often cited as major causes of death in the Dogue de Bordeaux.  The breed also has a high rate of developing liver tumours and other cancers. Regular veterinary checks are recommended.

DNA Testing:  DNA testing for the Dogue de Bordeaux is limited and does not cover all the genetic diseases potentially affecting the breed. Tests are available for Degenerative Mylopethy (DM), Canine Multifocal Retinopathy (CMR1) and Hereditary Footpad Hyperkeretosis (HFH-B).  These conditions are rarely seen in the breed.