American Bull Dogue De Bordeaux
The American Bull Dogue De Bordeaux is a cross between the American Bulldog and the Dogue De Bordeaux. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a American Bull Dogue De Bordeaux. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is a powerful, athletic breed that presents an impressive picture of muscular strength and agility. Males typically stand 22 to 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 70 and 120 pounds, while females are somewhat smaller at 20 to 26 inches and 60 to 100 pounds. The breed exists in two primary types: the Johnson or bully type, characterized by a larger, heavier build with a shorter muzzle and more pronounced undershot jaw; and the Scott or standard type, featuring a leaner, more athletic frame with a longer muzzle. Many modern American Bulldogs represent a combination of both types, creating versatile dogs suited for various working roles. The head is large, broad, and square-shaped, with powerful jaws that demonstrate significant bite strength. The muzzle is moderately long and wide, with a definite stop between the forehead and nose. Eyes are round to almond-shaped, set wide apart, and can be any color, though brown is most common. Ears are typically medium-sized, set high on the head, and may be natural or cropped, with natural ears folding forward or rose-shaped. The neck is muscular and slightly arched, flowing into well-developed shoulders that support the breed's impressive physical capabilities. The coat is short, close-lying, and smooth with a stiff texture that provides protection during outdoor work. American Bulldogs are predominantly white, often with patches of brindle, black, red, brown, or fawn distributed across the body and head. Solid white dogs are common, and some color on the head is desirable for show purposes. The chest is deep and moderately wide, and the body displays a slightly longer-than-tall proportion. The tail is thick at the base, tapering to a point, and carried in various positions depending on the dog's mood. Overall, the American Bulldog projects confidence and capability through its substantial, well-muscled frame.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Energy levels in American Bulldogs run moderately high, requiring one to two hours of daily exercise to maintain physical and mental balance. They excel in activities that challenge both body and mind, including weight pulling, agility, and protection sports. When their exercise needs are met, they transition easily to calm house companions who enjoy lounging with their families. Their playful, sometimes goofy personalities emerge during relaxed moments, revealing the affectionate nature beneath their serious exterior. American Bulldogs do not tolerate isolation well and thrive when included in daily family activities.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Allergies affect many American Bulldogs, manifesting as skin irritation, ear infections, and digestive upset triggered by environmental factors or food ingredients. Hypothyroidism, an endocrine disorder resulting from insufficient thyroid hormone production, causes weight gain, lethargy, and coat problems but responds well to daily hormone replacement therapy. Eye conditions including cherry eye, entropion, and cataracts occur with some frequency and may require surgical correction. The breed's active nature predisposes them to cruciate ligament tears, particularly in overweight individuals. Regular veterinary examinations, appropriate nutrition, weight management, and genetic testing for breeding animals contribute significantly to producing and maintaining healthy American Bulldogs.
Dogue De Bordeaux
The Dogue De Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a powerful, muscular breed renowned for possessing the largest head in the canine world relative to body size. Males typically stand 23.5 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh at least 110 pounds, while females measure 23 to 26 inches and weigh a minimum of 99 pounds. The body is thick-set and close to the ground, with a length slightly greater than height in an 11 to 10 proportion. The depth of the chest exceeds half the height at the withers, creating a substantial, imposing silhouette that conveys tremendous power and strength. The massive head serves as the breed's defining characteristic, with the skull circumference in males roughly equaling the dog's height at the shoulders. When viewed from above, the head forms a trapezoid shape, with the broader skull tapering toward the powerful undershot jaw. The face features pronounced wrinkles and a well-defined dewlap extending from the throat to the chest. Eyes are oval-shaped and set wide apart, ranging from hazel to dark brown depending on mask color. Ears are relatively small, set high, and hang close to the cheeks, with rounded tips that do not extend beyond the eye line. The coat is fine, short, and soft to the touch, covering a body of substantial muscular development. Color ranges exclusively through shades of fawn, from pale to dark mahogany red, with three possible mask types: black mask with matching nose pigment, brown mask with brown nose pigment, or no mask where the skin appears red and the nose is reddish. White markings may appear on the chest and limb tips. The breed's characteristic undershot bite positions the lower incisors in front of the uppers without contact. The tail is thick at the base, reaching to the hock, and carried low with a slight upward curve at the tip. Overall, the Dogue De Bordeaux presents an unmistakable picture of ancient power and dignified composure.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Energy levels in the Dogue De Bordeaux run relatively low compared to many working breeds, with adult dogs typically content with moderate daily exercise and plenty of rest. They move through life at a deliberate pace, taking time to assess situations before responding. This thoughtful approach sometimes manifests as stubbornness during training, requiring patient, positive methods rather than heavy-handed corrections. The breed responds best to handlers who establish clear leadership while respecting their sensitive nature. Dogues suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods and strongly prefer inclusion in family activities. Their affectionate, devoted nature rewards owners with unwavering companionship and protection.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Hip dysplasia affects a substantial portion of the breed, causing joint degeneration and mobility problems that worsen with age. The breed's brachycephalic facial structure contributes to breathing difficulties, heat intolerance, and exercise limitations, particularly in warm weather. Eye conditions including ectropion and entropion occur frequently, causing chronic irritation or corneal damage requiring surgical correction. Ichthyosis, a severe skin condition causing excessive scaling, and glomerulonephropathy, an inherited kidney disease, also affect the breed. Reproductive challenges include high rates of difficult labor and cesarean sections. Despite these concerns, attentive owners who provide appropriate nutrition, moderate exercise, regular veterinary monitoring, and a climate-controlled environment can help their Dogues achieve the best possible quality of life throughout their years.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your American Bull Dogue De Bordeaux may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the American Bulldog and Dogue De Bordeaux to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.