The Famous Dogue de Bordeaux Celebrity – Introducing Turner & Hooch & Others
The Dogue de Bordeaux, Bordeaux Mastiff, French Mastiff or Bordeaux dog, comes with a few names and a very rich history.
Nobody knows the specific origins of the breed, however we do know that the ancient breed has been a prominent figure before France was even France. We do know that they were a popular dog around the Bordeaux region of France since the 14th century. Some also suggest that the breed’s history dates all the way back to Rome and were introduced to “Gaul” by conquering legions.
This giant is adored world over for its docile, loving and calm nature. However, it also has a natural instinct to protect. In fact, the dog’s guardian and protector skills are so refined that the breed was targeted for extinction twice. Once during the French revolution and second by Hitler in World War 2. Thankfully the breed survived both times and has been restored.
Going into the late 1980’s the breed was made famous by the Tom Hanks movie Turner & Hooch. The audience fell in love with the slobbery giant and the number of registered breeders started to climb across the USA and UK.
Though there are many popular mastiffs around today. We want to honour this loveable breed by showcasing its talent for taking centre stage on the big screens and little screens (your phone) across the globe.
The Dogue de Bordeaux that takes on Hollywood
The Turner & Hooch breed is none other than our beloved Dogue de Bordeaux (commonly known as French Mastiff). In this film, Tom Hanks plays a detective that has to adopt a rambunctious dog to help him catch a killer (the dog is the closest thing to a case witness).
The relationship is testing …
Scott Turner (Tom Hanks) – “These are the simple rules. No barking, now growling, you will not lift your leg to anything in this house. This is not your room. No slobbering, no chewing, you will wear a flea collar. This is not your room. No begging for food, no sniffing of crotches, and you will not drink from my toilet. This is not your room.”
As you can imagine, Hooch pays no mind. He’s out of control! But as the movie progresses, their bond becomes stronger and the audience falls in love with the dog. The breed was known as the “hooch” dog for a time after.
Disney recently tried to resurrect the film by creating a series, however much to my dismay it has now been cancelled. A crying shame.
The Dogue de Bordeaux that belongs to a G.O.A.T
At the time of writing, Argentina have just won the world cup 2022 final and I’m overly excited that Lionel Messi has finally settled the Messi vs Ronaldo debate forever. But did you know, Messi is also a huge fan of the French Mastiff?
Messi’s Dogue de Bordeaux is more than the easy going everyday French Mastiff. It helps keep Leo in tip top shape ahead of big games.
In all seriousness, this is a wonderful showcase for how playful and family orientated this breed can be. I’m sure Leo also doesn’t mind its guardian aspects too, being a world famous star means protection and security are a must.
The Dogue de Bordeaux of the aristocratic years
Did you know that the regal lords and ladies of France often kept Dogue de Bordeaux’s around their estates for protection? They were a celebrated breed that were also a sign of prestige. Beyond being used for protection, the Dogue de Bordeaux would also be used as hunters or drafters.
By the time the French Revolution came about, the breed was almost wiped out. It survived by being adopted on farms and smallholdings throughout the South West of France, finding use as livestock guardians or helping out with heavy manoeuvring.
The Dogue de Bordeaux Youtuber
Dogue de Bordeaux’s are all over Youtube, but our favourite channel is “regalrogue”. Regal Rogue are a breeder that specialises in the French Mastiff. They showcase some of their pups and general breeding line.
The channel is full of helpful tips for the French Mastiff breed, but also does a great job of adding humorous “day in the life” videos from things such as bathing to feeding. If you’re looking for a close up of this beautiful breed, then this is a great channel to follow.
The Dogue de Bordeaux Influencer
As smart phones grip our everyday lives, we take a moment to note in our gratitude journals … “thank you Instagram, for now I can scroll endless Dogue de Bordeaux content”. At least, that’s how I start my day anyway.
You are spoiled for choice when it comes to famous Dogue de Bordeaux influencers. A favourite has to be Beau @dogue_de_bordeaux_beau. The account demonstrates everyday moments of ownership such as splashing puddles and playing fetch. However, it also shows the funny side of the breed.
Outside of this, there are many fan pages such as @dogue_de_bordeaux_fans which offer endless scrolling material.
And there you have it. What a cherished breed, fit for the stars and everyday people alike.
