The 7 most unusual habits of Dogues De Bordeaux
Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a dog breed that exudes greatness and strength with an impressive, muscular body and a special, expressive face. Originating in France, these dogs have historically been used for a variety of purposes including hunting, guarding, and pulling carts. Today, they are primarily beloved as companion animals, known for their calm demeanor and steadfast loyalty. Despite their somewhat intimidating appearance, the Dogue de Bordeaux has a deep affection for its family, displaying a gentle side that belies its large stature. Besides these qualities, they also exhibit some unusual habits that reflect their unique personalities and working heritage. These behaviors are not only attractive but also endearing, deepening the bond they share with their owners. This article explores seven of the Dogue de Bordeaux’s most unusual habits, providing insight into each behavior and offering guidance on how to effectively manage these distinctive traits.
1. Deep snoring
A notable habit of the Dogue de Bordeaux is their deep snoring. Due to their brachycephalic facial structure (short nose), they easily make a lot of noise when sleeping. This snoring can be surprisingly loud and is due to the restricted airway associated with their short, wide skull. Although generally harmless, it is important for owners to monitor this trait to ensure that it does not indicate more serious respiratory problems. Keeping them at a healthy weight and providing a cool, comfortable sleeping environment can help minimize discomfort and improve their sleep quality.
2. Excessive drooling
The Dogue de Bordeaux is famous for excessive drooling, especially after drinking water or around meals. This behavior is typical of this breed due to their loose, plump lips and large jaws. Owners often solve this problem by having a towel ready to wipe their mouth and keeping a small mat near their food and water bowls. Regularly cleaning facial wrinkles is also essential to prevent irritation or infection caused by moisture buildup.
3. Protective behavior
Despite his laid-back nature, the Dogue de Bordeaux can display strong defensive instincts. This habit stems from their historical role as protectors of property and livestock. They tend to be very territorial and may act reserved or cautious around strangers. Proper socialization and training from an early age is important to ensure that their protective nature does not become a problem. Encouraging positive interactions and controlled exposure to a variety of people and environments can help them develop a balanced temperament.
4. “Forced” love
What’s special is that Dogue de Bordeaux often shows affection by rubbing its head against its owner or leaning its weight on the owner. This behavior is a sign of trust and connection but can be overwhelming because of their size. Teaching them from a young age how 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 its thick skin and dense muscle mass, the Dogue de Bordeaux is extremely sensitive to heat. They often seek out the coolest places in the house and can become lethargic in hot weather. It is important to provide them with a cool environment and limit exercise on warm days to prevent heatstroke. Providing access to plenty of water and shaded areas while outside is also important for their health.
6. Reluctance to swim
Unlike many large dog breeds, the Dogue de Bordeaux often appears reluctant to swim. This habit may seem unusual given their size and strength but is common due to their heavy bodies and dense bone structures, making swimming more difficult for them. Encouraging water play in safe, shallow environments can help children become more comfortable with water, but care must always be taken to ensure their safety.
7. Emotional sensitivity
Dogue de Bordeaux is especially sensitive to its owner’s emotions. They are known to react keenly to changes in family mood and can become tense or anxious if there is tension or sadness. Creating a stable, quiet home environment and using positive reinforcement techniques can help manage their emotional reactions and ensure they stay happy and balanced.
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a dog breed that combines a majestic appearance with a complex set of behaviors that reflect its sensitivity and strength. By understanding and respecting these unusual habits, owners can foster nurturing relationships with their dogs, ensuring that these gentle giants will have a fulfilling life and happy. Each routine provides a deeper understanding of their nature and needs, highlighting the importance of thoughtful and informed care for these noble animals.