When looking for a Dogue de Bordeaux puppy, you'll want one from a reputable breeder who breeds for health and temperament. Make sure both parents have had health testing done on things like hips, elbows, heart, and thyroid. Visit the breeder and meet the puppy's mother at the very least to get a sense of the dog's temperament. A Dogue de Bordeaux puppy should be calm, friendly, and confident. Avoid puppies that seem shy, aggressive, or unhealthy. Take the time to socialize and properly train a Dogue de Bordeaux starting as a puppy to prevent behavioral issues from developing.
Preparing Your Home
Before bringing your Dogue de Bordeaux puppy home, be sure to properly prepare your house. Have a crate set up with a comfy blanket and toys so the puppy feels secure. Designate an area like a bathroom or hallway as a potty spot. Lay down potty pads and consider setting up an indoor potty like pee post or fake grass. Puppy-proof your home by keeping shoes, household chemicals, medications, small objects, cords, and toxic plants out of reach. Install baby gates to keep your pup contained. Gather all the necessary supplies like food, water bowls, collar, leash, brush, beds, and toys.
Establishing a Routine
Puppies thrive on routine and consistency. Set up a daily schedule for feeding times, potty breaks, training sessions, play time, walks, and crated naptimes. Take your puppy outside to the same designated potty spot according to the schedule, like first thing in the morning, after eating and drinking, after crated naps, after playtime, and before bedtime. Feeding your puppy at the same times each day will help with potty training. The schedule will depend on your puppy's age and needs. Stick to it as closely as possible.
Crate Training
Crate training is essential for Dogue de Bordeaux puppies. The crate should be a place they feel safe, not a punishment. Make the crate comfortable and appealing. Use treats to lure your puppy inside, praise them, give treats intermittently, and let them back out before they cry. Slowly increase the time spent crated from just a few minutes to a few hours. Avoid crating for longer than 4 hours at a time. Take your puppy outside immediately when let out. Crates prevent accidents when unsupervised, reduce anxiety, and teach bladder control.
House Training
House training a Dogue de Bordeaux puppy requires patience, consistency, positive reinforcement, and close supervision. Take your puppy outside frequently, at least every 1-2 hours, to the same potty spot. Use a verbal cue like "go potty." Give treats and praise when they go in the right place. Limit access inside the home and watch for circling, sniffing, squatting – signs they need to go out. If accidents happen, interrupt, say "no," take outside immediately after. Avoid punishment. Use enzymatic cleaners to remove odors. Be consistent with the feeding and potty routine. Consider crate training.
Socialization
Early and extensive socialization is imperative for the Dogue de Bordeaux breed. Gradually expose your puppy to new sights, sounds, people, animals, places, and experiences in a positive way. Let them approach things at their own pace, withdrawing if fearful. Give treats and praise for confident behavior. Prioritize socializing with other dogs of all sizes and ages. Puppy classes are great for this. Avoid dog parks until fully vaccinated. Socialization builds confidence, reduces reactivity and aggression, and prevents behavior issues.
Basic Commands
Work on teaching your Dogue de Bordeaux puppy basic obedience commands like:
Sit – Hold a treat over pup's nose, move it back towards their tail as you say "sit." Reward when their bottom hits the ground.
Come – Call puppy in an excited tone, reward with treats when they come to you. Never punish for coming.
Stay – Have puppy sit. Say "stay," take a few steps back, then return and reward. Gradually increase distance.
Down – Show treat in hand, lower it to the ground as you say "down," let puppy follow to floor and reward.
Leave it – Have a treat in your fist. Say "leave it" when puppy tries to get. Reward when they stop trying.
Use rewards-based training, keeping sessions positive and short. Be patient and consistent. Obedience training sets the foundation for a well-mannered dog.
Bite Inhibition
Dogue de Bordeaux puppies are mouthy dogs prone to biting and nipping. This is normal but must be addressed early. When puppy mouths, yelp loudly to indicate it hurt. Ignore them briefly. Redirect to a chew toy. Praise for chewing the toy instead. If the biting continues, stand up and walk away for 30 seconds. Do not yell, hit, or physically punish. Reward with treats when playing gently. Teaching bite inhibition prevents damage from those strong jaws.
Leash Training
Leash training is vital for keeping your Dogue de Bordeaux puppy safe and under control. Introduce the collar and leash inside, letting them drag the leash around while supervised. Put the leash on and encourage the pup to walk with you, using treats to motivate. If they pull, stop moving until the leash has slack again. Take short training walks around your home at first before going outside. Use verbal cues like "let's go" and "this way" when changing direction. Always reward good leash manners.
Grooming
Get your Dogue de Bordeaux used to regular grooming while still a puppy. Handling their paws, ears, mouth, and body will make grooming easier. Brush their short coat weekly using a rubber brush or hound glove to remove dead hair. Trim their nails every couple weeks. Clean ears with a gentle cleaner and cotton ball to avoid infections. Brush teeth daily or several times a week using dog-safe toothpaste. Bathe monthly or as needed using mild shampoo. Inspect skin for any irritation, parasites, or sores. Positive, patient handling makes grooming easier.
Health Care
Dogue de Bordeaux puppies need regular veterinary care to stay healthy, especially with their predispositions. Schedule an appointment within a few days of bringing them home and then for vaccinations every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old. They need a rabies vaccine around 4 months. Discuss preventives like flea, tick, and heartworm medication. Get pet insurance to help cover costs for this breed. Take your puppy to the vet right away for any concerns with their health or behavior. Being proactive helps avoid issues.
Exercise
Though just a puppy, Dogue de Bordeaux dogs need daily exercise for both physical and mental development. Take short, frequent walks around your neighborhood, gradually increasing distance and time spent walking as they age. Incorporate play time in a securely fenced area to run around, play fetch, or with engaging toys. Supervise off-leash exercise. Avoid overexertion while puppy's joints are still developing. Make exercise positive and fun. Physical and mental stimulation will help prevent destructive behaviors.
Nutrition
Proper nutrition is key for a Dogue de Bordeaux puppy’s growth and development. Choose a high-quality kibble formulated for large breed puppies. Follow portion recommendations based on their projected adult weight. Feed on a schedule 2-3 times a day. Avoid leaving food out all day. No supplements are needed if feeding kibble. Monitor their weight, adjusting food as needed. Do not allow rapid growth which can harm bone development. Limit treats for training. Provide plenty of clean, fresh water. Nutrition affects all aspects of your puppy's health.
Preventing Problems
Dogue de Bordeaux are prone to certain health and behavioral issues. Preventing them starts with early socialization, training, exercise, and care. Enroll your puppy in a training class for continued socialization and manners. Discourage jumping, mouthing, and other unwanted behaviors. Avoid overfeeding leading to obesity. Clean ears, teeth, folds regularly. Use positive handling techniques and never punishment. Meet their mental and physical needs daily to prevent destructive behaviors. A well-cared for, properly trained Dogue is less likely to develop issues.
Finding a Trainer
Consider enrolling your Dogue de Bordeaux puppy in structured training classes. Look for a class using positive reinforcement techniques. An experienced trainer can help with socialization, manners, and preventing future aggression or anxiety. Private lessons may be needed for obedience or specific behavior issues. Choose a trainer experienced with large, guardian breeds. Avoid trainers using adversives, dominance, or fear. Training strengthens the bond with your puppy and leads to a happier, well-adjusted dog.
Supervision
Close supervision is a must for Dogue de Bordeaux puppies. When they are very young, do not leave them unsupervised at all. As they grow older, limit their access to rooms with furniture, chemicals, small objects they could swallow or destroy. Use baby gates and crates to restrict access when you cannot directly supervise. Make sure children know how to gently interact with the puppy and never leave them alone. Take the puppy outside on a leash until fully potty and obedience trained. Supervision prevents accidents and destruction.
Supplies for Dogue de Bordeaux Puppies
Here are some must-have supplies for bringing home your Dogue de Bordeaux puppy:
- High quality large breed puppy kibble
- Dog crate big enough for adult size
- Comfy dog beds and blankets
- Stainless steel food and water bowls
- Collar with ID tag, 6 foot leash
- Dog brush and nail clippers
- Dog-safe toothbrush and toothpaste
- Enzymatic pet cleaner for accidents
- Variety of interactive chew toys
- Treats for training
- Puppy pads for indoor potty area
- Baby gates to restrict access
- Grooming supplies like shampoo, ear cleaner
- Pet insurance paperwork
Having all the right supplies before your puppy comes home will help set them up for success during training and beyond. Buy items designed for their large adult size. Be fully prepared for your Dogue de Bordeaux puppy's needs.
Puppy-Proofing Your Home
Puppy-proofing is a must to keep your Dogue de Bordeaux puppy safe and prevent destruction. Put away any household chemicals, toxic plants, medications, small objects, sewing supplies, batteries, electronics – anything that could harm your puppy if chewed on or swallowed. Block access to any unsafe areas with baby gates. Hide or cover power cords and block access behind furniture. Secure trash cans and keep toilet lids closed. Remove items from counters and low tables. Pick up any dropped food or garbage. Keep shoes and clothing put away. Consider crate training and supervision to prevent chewing when you cannot watch the pup. Prepare your home before bringing your new puppy home.
Choosing a Veterinarian
Finding the right veterinarian is important for your Dogue de Bordeaux’s healthcare. Look for an experienced vet familiar with giant breeds. Make sure they have emergency services available. Tour the clinic to check cleanliness, friendliness of staff, handling of pets. Ask about their health testing, nutrition recommendations, and treatment philosophy, ideally seeking minimal vaccines and medications when possible. Location close to home is a plus. Schedule a vet visit shortly after getting your puppy. An experienced vet helps provide quality care over your dog’s lifetime.
Costs of Owning a Dogue de Bordeaux
Dogue de Bordeaux dogs tend to have higher ownership costs. Purchase price of a Dogue de Bordeaux puppy can be $1,500 to over $3,000. High quality food for giant breeds costs $60-100 monthly. Initial supplies like leash, crate, bowls, etc will likely surpass $500. Ongoing costs for treats, toys, beds will be around $50 monthly. Veterinary care with vaccines, preventives like flea/tick medication, check ups will run $700+ yearly. Medical issues or emergencies for this breed can cost thousands given their predispositions. Pet insurance is highly recommended. Account for considerable yearly and unexpected costs before committing to this breed.
Traveling with a Dogue de Bordeaux Puppy
Taking a Dogue de Bordeaux puppy on trips takes planning. For car travel, invest in a secured crate or harness restraint. Never let your puppy roam loose. Stop every 1-2 hours for potty breaks and to stretch their legs. Bring food, water bowls, cleanup supplies, chews. Get your puppy gradually used to car rides with short local trips first. When flying, check airline requirements for pets and fees. Consider shipping your puppy as cargo. For hotels, call ahead about pet policies. Bring bedding, food and water bowls, toys to help your puppy feel at home when traveling.
Signs of a Healthy Dogue de Bordeaux Puppy
A healthy Dogue de Bordeaux puppy will:
- Have clear eyes, nose, and ears
- Move with ease and energy
- Have glossy coat
- Seem alert and interested in surroundings
- Eat and drink appropriately
- Have normal potty and bowel habits
- Interact appropriately with others
- Have proper growth and weight gain
Contact your vet immediately if your puppy displays signs like vomiting, diarrhea, limping, lethargy, heavy breathing, coughing, weight issues or anything concerning. Regular vet check ups will help catch any potential health issues early. Notify the breeder of any genetic conditions that develop.
Common Health Issues
Dogue de Bordeaux dogs are prone to certain health conditions, including:
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia – Malformation of joints. Can cause arthritis or lameness.
Cardiac Disease – Enlarged heart, irregular heartbeat. Can cause fainting.
Bloat – Life threatening twisting of stomach. Requires emergency surgery. Don't allow rapid eating or drinking.
Respiratory Problems – Elongated soft palate, narrow nostrils. Can cause difficulty breathing.
Allergies – Environment or food allergies resulting in skin irritation. Manage with diet change or medications from vet.
Eye Conditions – Entropion, ectropion, cataracts. Can require surgery to correct eyelid issues.
Reputable breeders will screen breeding dogs for these conditions to reduce risk to puppies. Still monitor puppy closely for any emerging issues.
Importance of Training and Socialization
Proper training and socialization is extremely important for Dogue de Bordeaux given their size, guarding instincts, and powerful builds. Starting as a puppy, socialize them to new sights, sounds, people, dogs, and experiences in a calm, positive way. Use reward-based training for basic commands and manners. Discourage behaviors like jumping, mouthing. Seek professional training if issues emerge. Dogues require extensive, lifelong socialization and training. This prevents aggression, anxiety, territorial behaviors, and helps them become stable family companions. An untrained Dogue can be dangerous.
Finding a Reputable Breeder
It’s vital to get your Dogue de Bordeaux puppy from an ethical, responsible breeder. Avoid pet stores or irresponsible breeders just trying to profit. A good breeder will:
- Focus on health and temperament in breeding dogs
- Have parent dogs screened and certified for health issues
- Be able to provide health history of lineage
- Raise puppies in a clean, enriched environment
- Socialize puppies appropriately
- Provide health guarantee for puppies
Visit breeders to meet parent dogs and see the conditions. Ask questions and get references. A caring, quality breeder is the best source for a happy, healthy Dogue de Bordeaux puppy.
Bringing Home Your Puppy
Picking up and bringing home your Dogue de Bordeaux puppy is exciting but also requires preparation. Puppy-proof your home in advance and gather all needed supplies. Choose a time where someone can be home with the puppy for a few days to help them adjust. Keep initial introductions with pets or family members calm to reduce stress. Set up an enclosed area or crate to help the puppy feel secure. Maintain a consistent schedule for feeding, potty breaks, play time, and rest. Watch closely for signs of discomfort, illness, or injury. Be patient – it may take a puppy days or weeks to fully acclimate to a new home.
Benefits of Crate Training
Crate training provides many benefits for Dogue de Bordeaux puppies and dogs:
- Reduces separation anxiety
- Provides safe enclosed space when you're away
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Helps teach potty training
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Discourages destructive behaviors
- Can be used for transport
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Gives dog personal space when needed
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Helps confine dog when injured or recovering
- Reduces stress for vet/groomer visits
- Overall provides security and structure
Use rewards based training to help your Dogue enjoy the crate. Proper crate training greatly benefits this breed.
Housetraining Challenges
Housetraining a Dogue de Bordeaux puppy takes time and consistency. Challenges include:
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Their large size makes frequent accidents in the house problematic.
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As guard dogs they like to stay near family, making being confined or taken out frequently difficult.
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They have slower metabolisms meaning they may need to go out less frequently than other puppies.
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Their tendency toward stubbornness requires extra diligence and positive reinforcement.