The Dogue de Bordeaux is a large Mastiff breed from France. The history of the breed is up for debate, some saying the original breed started in Spain, moved to Rome, Italy, and then spread across Europe, while others say they truly originated in France. Regardless, during the French Revolution, countless Dogues were lost and the breed was reestablished in France, thus claiming the name the French Mastiff. The Dogue is first mentioned in writing in 1863 in a dog show. The next time it is mentioned in history is 1883. http://www.akc.org/breeds/dogue_de_bordeaux/

The Dogue is a huge breed, said to be the ancestor of the Bull Mastiff. They have incredibly large heads, and are very heavy set dogs. They have loose skin with lots of folds, but their fur is very short and soft. They come only in the reddish copper color, with some white accepted. The Dogue is a very loyal breed, a great protector of his family. They can be wary or confrontational with strangers, and need to be socialized early if your not looking for a serious guard dog. It is not recommended for new dog owners, as it needs a dominant owner or it could become a dangerous dog. They need an owner who can be patient but firm in training. http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/doguedebordeax.htm

Because this dog is so large, they can suffer from developmental problems and bone problems. They can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. They can also have epilepsy, heart problems (to large of heart or to small) and hyperkeratosis. Hyperkeratosis is the hardening of the outer layer of skin, and can occur on the nose and the pads of the feet. They will cause it to look dried out and calused and cause the pads to crack and be painful. http://www.answers.com/topic/hyperkeratosis

Most Mastiffs were bred for protection and bull baiting type sports. They are an imposing breed that is still used for protection. They can be often seen in the show ring. They are not really used for many other sports, but can excel at pulling and carting due to their size.http://www.akc.org/breeds/mastiff/