Bordeaux Pitbull

65-90 lbs
20-22"
Unknown
Dogue de Bordeaux
Pit Bull
Pitbull Bordeaux

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.

purpose Purpose
Companion, Guarding
history Date of Origin
Unknown
ancestry Ancestry
Dogue de Bordeaux, American Pit Bull Terrier (aka The American Staffordshire Terrier)

Bordeaux Pitbull Health

Average Size
Male Bordeaux Pitbull size stats
Height: 21-23 inches Weight: 75-100 lbs
Female Bordeaux Pitbull size stats
Height: 20-22 inches Weight: 65-90 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Heart Problems
  • Osteochondritis Dissecans
  • Lymphoma
  • Mast Cell Tumors
Minor Concerns
  • Demodectic Mange
  • Skin Problems
  • Brachycephalic Syndrome
  • Ataxia
Occasional Tests
  • Blood
  • Heart
  • Skin Scraping
  • X-Rays
  • MRI
  • Respiratory Tests

Bordeaux Pitbull Breed History

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.

Bordeaux Pitbull Breed Appearance

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. 

Bordeaux Pitbull Breed Maintenance

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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Bordeaux Pitbull Temperament

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. 

Bordeaux Pitbull Activity Requirements

The Dogue de Bordeaux does not generally require a large amount of exercise, but the APBT and AST are a different story and they are likely to require more exercise than the average dog. The hybrid of these two is likely to require 60 to 90 minutes of exercise per day to be at their optimal health, although walking is not the only way to get the exercise that they need. Bordeaux Pitbulls are likely to enjoy alternative activities such as dock jumping, agility training, and swimming. In most cases, the crossbreed of these two dogs will have a short snout, but not quite brachycephalic, on occasion however, the canine may take after the Dogue de Bordeaux side of the family. Dogs that are brachycephalic have a tendency to overheat and to have respiratory issues, so it is important to watch for signs of these if your dog has this trait. This dog is not generally recommended for apartment buildings due to its large size and higher exercise needs. Many apartments may restrict this type of dog as well and homeowners insurance may require dog liability insurance.

Bordeaux Pitbull Owner Experiences

Rosemary
5 Months
2 People
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Excellent dog, great mix. Loves all humans and her pack of our other dogs; a bit fearful of dogs outside of her pack, but we will work on getting her more socialized with other dogs.
6 years, 11 months ago
Hooch
13 Weeks
3 People
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This is our first his mom came to us a a foster. I have other dogs in the home too
5 years, 9 months ago
Odin
5 Months
7 People
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He is so sweet! Is always right by me, licks everyone to death! Absolutely loves his Pit Bull sister! Such a gentle giant!
5 years, 8 months ago
Doobie
11 Months
2 People
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I own two Bordeaux Pit bulls and they are the best dogs I've ever had by far. They love people,especially children and are always eager to entertain us all.I highly recommend this breed.
5 years, 8 months ago
Ash
3 Years
5 People
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Ash has been a stellar dog and so very pleasant to be around. He is super protective of his pack never letting his babies out of his sight. He is very intimidating to look at but is big red teddy bear. He loves his naps and tends to be a bed and couch hog. We absolutely love him!
5 years, 8 months ago
Bronson
3 Years
3 People
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I adopted mine, he’s friendly towards people and until recently female dogs too, Male dogs he attacks them n won’t let go there’s no distraction technique to get him off either, but I take him to thick woods away from other animals and he eats trees and climbs them to get to the branch he wants, he loves swimming and caving too , he’s powerful and can pull my van on a flat road, he’s stubborn too but overall he’s friendly and great with kids,
5 years, 7 months ago
Creole
1 Year
2 People
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Sing to her
Teach her new things
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cuddle
She is the most loving dog. She melts my heart and she gives dry human kisses!! I love her upbeat, happy to just be alive attitude !!
5 years, 2 months ago
layla
18 Months
5 People
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i have had a wonderfull expericne with my dog she is really friendly but also can be very aggresive and very lively but apart from that shes a wonderfull dog just struggles to put wight on
4 years, 1 month ago
Creole
3 Years
3 People
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Walking
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traveling
My Creole is the most affectionate dog I have ever met. She will let you do anything to her, which comes in handy at the vet!! She loves all she comes into contact with, be it a baby or an adult. She is really gentle with babies and literally cuddles with me every night. I would be lost without her!
3 years, 11 months ago
Juice
9 Years
2 People
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I can’t express enough how much we love our dog, once he knows someone they want to know where they can get a dog like him! He’s so loving, funny, affectionate and the best companion anyone would love. With the best personality! Loves playing with his Pitbull terroir sister too! He does get nervous with people but when he does he will go find his stuffy duck and suck on him to calm him down. Love this breed and love our dog
3 years, 5 months ago
Book me a walkiee?
Pweeeze!
Sketch of smiling australian shepherd