Doguedoodle
The Doguedoodle is a cross between the Dogue de Bordeaux and the Poodle. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Doguedoodle. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is an ancient breed presenting a massive, powerful appearance that commands immediate attention. Males typically stand twenty-three and a half to twenty-seven inches at the shoulder with a minimum weight of one hundred ten pounds, while females measure twenty-three to twenty-six inches and weigh at least ninety-nine pounds. The breed possesses a stocky, muscular build set somewhat low to the ground, combining tremendous strength with surprising agility for a dog of such substantial size. The head is the most remarkable feature of the Dogue de Bordeaux, being proportionally the largest head in the entire canine world when compared to body size. The skull is broad and rounded with a pronounced stop and deeply furrowed brow that creates an expressive, somewhat serious countenance. The muzzle is powerful and broad, approximately one-third the length of the head, with an undershot jaw where the lower jaw extends beyond the upper. The lips are thick and pendulous, contributing to the breed's characteristic drooling. The nose is broad with well-opened nostrils, and the color coordinates with the mask, ranging from black to brown to reddish depending on the individual's coloring. The coat is fine, short, and soft to the touch, lying close to the heavily muscled body beneath. All Dogue de Bordeaux display some shade of fawn, ranging from light tan through rich mahogany red. Three mask patterns exist within the breed: black mask, which is most common and covers the muzzle and may extend around the eyes; brown mask, which shows the same pattern in a liver shade; and no mask, where the face appears the same color as the body. Limited white markings are acceptable on the chest and feet. The skin is thick and loose, particularly around the neck where it forms a noticeable dewlap, and on the face where it creates the characteristic wrinkles. The ears are small, pendant, and set high, hanging close to the cheeks. The tail is thick at the base, tapering to the tip, and is carried low.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Despite their serious appearance, many Dogue de Bordeaux owners describe their dogs as comical and entertaining, often behaving like overgrown lap dogs who seem unaware of their substantial size. They are content to spend much of their day resting near their families, earning a reputation as couch potatoes who prefer relaxation over vigorous activity. However, they do require regular moderate exercise to maintain health and appropriate weight. Early socialization and consistent training are essential due to their size and strength, as an unruly adult Dogue de Bordeaux can be difficult to manage. The breed is sensitive to their owner's emotions and responds best to patient, positive training methods that respect their dignified nature.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations The breed's brachycephalic facial structure contributes to breathing difficulties and significant heat sensitivity. Dogues de Bordeaux should never be exercised vigorously in warm weather and must have access to climate-controlled environments to prevent dangerous overheating. The deep wrinkles on the face require regular cleaning to prevent bacterial and yeast infections in the skin folds. Gastric dilatation-volvulus, or bloat, poses a life-threatening risk in this deep-chested breed and requires immediate emergency treatment if suspected. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are common orthopedic concerns that can cause pain and mobility issues. Kidney disease, including glomerulonephropathy, affects some individuals and causes progressive kidney failure. A genetic skin condition called ichthyosis causes dry, flaky skin and is present from birth in affected puppies. Eye problems including ectropion, where the lower eyelid rolls outward, and epilepsy are additional health concerns in the breed.
Poodle
The Poodle is an elegant, well-proportioned dog that comes in three distinct size varieties, all sharing the same breed standard except for height. The Standard Poodle stands over fifteen inches at the shoulder, typically ranging from eighteen to twenty-four inches, and weighs forty-five to seventy pounds. The Miniature Poodle measures over ten inches but not more than fifteen inches, weighing ten to twenty pounds. The Toy Poodle stands ten inches or under and weighs four to six pounds. All three varieties display a squarely built body with proud carriage and an air of distinction that has made the breed a perennial favorite. The head is refined and elegant with a moderately rounded skull, a slight but definite stop, and a long, straight muzzle with fine chiseling under the eyes. The eyes are oval-shaped, set far enough apart, and very dark in color, conveying an alert, intelligent expression that reflects the breed's keen mind. Dogs with brown-based coat colors may have dark amber eyes. The ears are set at or slightly below eye level, hanging close to the head with long, wide, heavily feathered leather that frames the face attractively. The neck is long and strong, allowing the head to be carried high with dignity. The Poodle's coat is perhaps its most distinctive feature, consisting of naturally curly or corded hair that grows continuously and does not shed in the conventional manner. This unique coat texture makes Poodles popular among allergy sufferers, though no dog is truly hypoallergenic. The coat is dense and harsh in texture, providing protection and water resistance that served the breed well in its original role as a water retriever. Poodles come in a wide array of solid colors including black, white, brown, cafe au lait, gray, silver, blue, cream, apricot, and red. Proper grooming is essential, as the coat will mat severely without regular brushing and professional grooming every four to six weeks. Various traditional clips are acceptable for show dogs, while pet owners often choose simpler, lower-maintenance trims.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Socially, Poodles are generally friendly and outgoing, though some individuals, particularly among the smaller varieties, may be initially reserved with strangers. Early socialization helps ensure they develop into confident, well-adjusted adults who are comfortable in various situations. Poodles typically get along well with children and other pets when properly introduced, making them excellent family companions. They are alert dogs that will bark to announce visitors, making them effective watchdogs despite their non-aggressive nature. The breed does not tolerate being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation anxiety without proper conditioning to time alone.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Eye conditions are prevalent across all Poodle varieties, with progressive retinal atrophy causing gradual vision loss and eventual blindness, cataracts potentially requiring surgical correction, and glaucoma threatening vision through increased eye pressure. Standard Poodles are genetically predisposed to epilepsy, typically developing seizures between one and five years of age that require ongoing medication management. Sebaceous adenitis, a skin condition causing inflammation of the oil-producing glands, leads to hair loss and skin problems particularly in Standard Poodles. Smaller Poodle varieties may be affected by Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, a hip condition caused by inadequate blood supply to the femoral head, and patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of position. Von Willebrand's disease, a bleeding disorder caused by deficient clotting factor, and thyroid disorders also occur in the breed.
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 Doguedoodle 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 Dogue de Bordeaux and Poodle to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.