Bordeaux

A most ancient of French breeds, the Dogue de Bordeaux can be traced back as far as the 14th century. Originally bred as a large and formidable hunting and fighting dog, the Bordeaux found his employment as a guard dog for the home and herd of butchers - hence the oft used nick name of "butchers dog". Three types of the breed originally existed - the Paris type, the Toulouse type and the Bordeaux type, this last being the surviving type and foundation of the breed as we know it today. Exhibited at Frances' first recorded dog show in Paris 1863, the Dogue de Bordeaux's original breed standard dates back to 1896 and despite near extinction following the 2nd World War, the Bordeaux has re-emerged as an increasingly popular family companion and show dog, exhibiting none of the original 14th century aggression or fighting instinct.

When considering how to compose a good description of the Bordeaux, my unconscious reaction was to chuckle, and I think perhaps this is as good an explanation of the breed as any - Bordeaux's really are funny !

They are also a breed of contradictions. Their formidable presence belies a very gentle and sensitive nature, their massive bulk belies a remarkably athletic dog, their robust appearance belies great need for care and comfort.

Bordeaux's have to be honestly described as "high maintenance", and should you neglect to observe this, a Bordeaux will very clearly communicate disapproval - a more skilled master in the art of sulking, big sighs and filthy looks would be impossible to find.

To live with a Bordeaux is to surrender the sofa. Bordeaux's are born with a "sofa homing instinct" and have generally located the desired piece of furniture by 6 weeks of age, by 8 weeks have learnt how to climb and by 15 weeks can fill a good sized 3 seater.

Family life is essential to the Bordeaux. A companion, guardian and naturally sociable dog, Bordeaux's thrive on company. To isolate a Bordeaux is to punish a Bordeaux and unless you can offer a full family position in the heart of the household this is definitely NOT the breed for you.

A most effective protector of house and home, the commanding appearance of the Bordeaux will deter even the most fool hardy intruder - yet the same dog instinctively will escort a toddler round the garden, play foot ball all day or gently lick the tears from a crying eyes - still more contradictions of this remarkable breed.

As a rather ruffled, sat upon and drool splattered devotee of the breed all I can say is - "to know a Bordeaux is to love a Bordeaux" Whether you want to or not . . . . . . . you just cant help it !