The French Mastiff is an ancient breed of Alaunt origin, related to the old Spanish, English and Italian mastiffs of Roman times. Its French heritage is often disputed, seing how the Bordeaux region of France was ruled by English Kings, which are thought to have brought their mastiffs and bulldogges with them, where they interbred with local hounds and cattledogs. Dogs of this type existed all over Europe, so it's most likely that the French Dogue and the English Mastiff were mutually influential. There were also the smaller fighting breeds, such as the Doguin d'Aquitaine and Bouledogue du Midi, as well as the giant Toulouse Bulldog that contributed to the development of early working French Mastiffs. Working dogs of Spain, such as the Alano Espanol and the Perro de Toro Espanol are believed to have had an influence on the early French baiting dogs, also. The modern French Mastiff was developed by crossing the best representatives of the Parisien, Bordelais and Toulousain mastiffs, all of which are considered by most authorities to be different types of the same French Mastiff breed.

This is a breed that knows no fear, used for centuries as a large game hunter, as well as for baiting and fighting sports. Although nowhere as nearly ferocious as it was in the past, a well-bred Bordeaux Mastiff can still a great property guardian and service dog today. Very massive and intimidating, this lovely wide-chested breed posesses an agreeable personality and makes a wonderful family dog. Even though the red-nosed examples of this breed are the most common, some dogs have black or brown noses, depending on the coat colour and bloodline.

The coat is short, fine and soft. The Dogue de Bordeaux comes in solid colours ranging from fawn and orange to red and mahogany, some with white markings on the chest. Average height is around 25 inches, although taller examples exist.