HI,

i am looking into researching about the dogue de bordeaux breed, i currently have three other dogs all of the same breed (terrier breed) that i have shown, i am now looking to maybe going into showing a different breed.  The dogue de bordeaux for myself and my partner keeps coming up, i just want to know all the best and the worst bits about the breed, we are not looking until next year at the earliest so want to research as much as possible about them. We also have a nearly nine year old child.
Also health testing what should we make sure the parents have been tested for?

Many thanks

Angela.

Hi hips should be mandatory, elbows eyes heart score is a thorough job. Speaking from experience mine (2,3 years old dog,bitch and r.i.p older bitch would be 6) they have been great with other dogs, bitches have been slightly funny with other bitches, can live together but neither would back down from a fight so caution would be advised if not both brought up from one being a pup etc. My 2 get on great together never a scrap and they love each other like husband and wife, i also have rats and small animals which they love to watch and dont treat as prey. i dont have kids but as yours is over 5 i cant see a problem and getting involved in training is a great idea, due to size they tend to barge past so teaching manners from a young age is good. As long as you socialise from a young age you will have a perfect dog.

Before you start looking for breeders, buy the petlove book and read the standard thoroughly, alot of bybs and buyers have no idea with the standard and with you wanting to show it will be a must. Speak to owners at shows and do as much as you can to get yourself familiar with a GOOD specimen. Skin problems are also an issue with the breed, some breeders i know will say its just acne , but if they are looking bald and patchy just walk away because its more than likely that it will be passed onto puppies. good bone is what you want in a show dogue, make sure parents have it and pups. If your after a show dogue you will most likely have to go on a list. But if you need anymore info i can put you onto other kennels.

Hope this helps (i have lots more info if needed)

Louise