65-90 lbs
20-22"
Unknown
The Bordeaux Pitbull is an unrecognized hybrid, a cross between an ancient giant breed dog known as the Dogue de Bordeaux and a Pit Bull. It is important to note that the term Pit Bull can refer to a number of powerfully built dogs with short hair and wide heads. In most cases, breeders and dog enthusiasts are referring to the breed recognized by the UKC as the American Pit Bull Terrier and by the AKC as the Staffordshire Terrier, but this may not always be the breed used to incorporate into this crossbreed. This mix of breeds will result in a large, powerfully built dog with a courageous and protective nature.
Both the Dogue de Bordeaux and pit bulls of all sorts are known as a molossers, a group characterized by their strength and by their solidly built bodies. All members of the molosser group, including Mastiff breeds, Saint Bernards, and even Pugs, are believed to be descended from one common ancestor, the Molossus, an ancient breed that still exists in some mountainous regions Albania. The Dogue de Bordeaux is an ancient molosser, and during the early days of the breed, there was a great deal of variation among the dogs classified as Dogues de Bordeaux, including differences in coat colors, jaw formation, and even differing head sizes.
In the 1800’s these dogs were employed extensively throughout France and were trained to bait bulls and jaguars, to hunt boar, to protect property, and even to herd cattle. Dogues were used in the development of both the Tosa in Japan and the Argentine Dogo early in the twentieth century, but it wasn’t until 1970 that a more cohesive breed standard was written. Despite their ancient heritage, these dogs were virtually unheard of in the United States until 1982, when an article in “Dog world” was written by Dr. Carl Semencic, and they didn’t gain recognition by the American Kennel Club until 2008.
The “Pit Bull” in this mix is a little more complicated. The term Pit Bull can refer to several types of muscular, short-haired dog that were bred by incorporating Terrier into their bloodlines, and they are known for their stamina, strength, and tenacity. In most cases, when referring to a Pit Bull for breeding, the animal referred to is either the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT), which is recognized by the UKC of Britain, or the American Staffordshire Terrier (AST) as recognized by the AKC here in America. These breeds are essentially identical, although there seems to be more variation in size and coloration that is acceptable for the American Pit Bull Terrier than for the American Staffordshire. It is important to note that this hybrid is not recognized by any of the crossbreed or designer dog registries, so unless specified the term “Pit Bull” could refer to a number of different breeds.
The Bordeaux Pitbull is a hybrid of two molosser variety dogs which means this will most certainly be a large, muscular animal, with a broad head and a short, single layer coat. The overall head shape will be square and strong with either round or oval eyes that can range in color from hazel to dark brown, and the ears will sit higher up on the head and may be either folded over or hanging. The muzzle between the two breeds varies, with the APBT and AST having a medium length muzzle and the Dogue having a shortened, brachycephalic structure. In the majority of cases, the muzzle of the hybrid will fall in between these lengths, but some may be born with the brachycephalic structure. Another difference between the two dogs is the appearance of the skin. Although the Pit Bull has a close, tight skin, the skin of the Dogue de Bordeaux hangs loose and creates large wrinkles, and your Bordeaux Pitbull could have skin that is anywhere between the two. The Dogue only really comes in varying shades of fawn, but the inclusion of the APBT or AST means that any color combination may occur in this particular crossbreed.
These dogs are fairly easy to deal with in the grooming area, this hybrid’s short coat is quite manageable. Although they require regular brushing with a curry comb or soft bristle brush to control the shedding, monthly baths are usually adequate for these dogs. Medicated shampoo may be required if any skin disorders such as ichthyosis develop, and if your dog has inherited the folds and wrinkles of the Dogue de Bordeaux, care should be taken to ensure that the folds of skin have not trapped any moisture as it can cause skin irritation and a foul odor may develop. The face and muzzle area should be examined and wiped down on a weekly basis to prevent the formation of red yeast and other fungal or bacterial infestations, particularly as dogs of this breed tend to drool rather heavily. The paw pads for these powerfully built animals also require special attention to prevent drying and cracking, including the use of a good dog-safe moisturizer. This should be started as early as possible to sensitize the animal as some Pit Bull variety breeds can be reluctant about having their feet touched.
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The Bordeaux Pitbull will typically take after the parent breeds, making a courageous and loyal companion who prefers to be fully integrated into their families. Both parent breeds are very tolerant of children and protective; however, these dogs are extremely powerful, and all interactions with toddlers and children should be carefully supervised. The Pit Bull variety of dogs are intelligent and responsive, but the Dogue is known to be a little stubborn when it comes to training. As these dogs become very powerful in a fairly short amount of time training and socialization should be started at as early an age as possible. The APBT and AST are generally fairly agreeable with other animals; however, Dogues who are not properly socialized can develop excessive shyness or aggressive behaviors in regards to other dogs. Both breeds may be somewhat reserved with strangers, but are generally affectionate at home.
Written by Darlene Stott
Published: 10/08/2017, edited: 01/03/2022
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