How much exercise does a Dogue de Bordeaux need?
A Dogue de Bordeaux is a giant, heavily built breed that generally needs moderate rather than intense exercise: think steady walks rather than long runs or repeated high-impact play, because their size, short muzzle and tendency to overheat make them poorly suited to strenuous activity, especially in warm weather or as a puppy.
Why this breed's exercise needs are different
The Dogue de Bordeaux is one of the heaviest molosser breeds, often weighing well over 50kg as an adult, and that mass puts real strain on joints during high-impact activity like jumping or repeated fast running. Combined with a brachycephalic, short-muzzled face that makes breathing less efficient than in a longer-nosed dog, this is a breed built for steady effort rather than sustained speed or endurance.
Heat tolerance is a genuine limiting factor too. The same short muzzle that affects breathing generally also makes it harder for the breed to cool down through panting, so exercise in hot weather needs to be shorter and gentler than it would for a more typical-shaped dog, with plenty of opportunity to rest in the shade.
What moderate exercise looks like in practice
Steady lead walks, at a pace the dog sets rather than a brisk jog, suit this breed better than intense fetch sessions or long off-lead runs. Two shorter walks through the day tend to work better than one long one, particularly in warmer months, giving the dog time to rest and recover between bouts of activity.
As a giant breed, a Dogue de Bordeaux's joints and growth plates are still developing well into their second year, so puppy exercise in particular should be kept gentle and short, building up gradually rather than pushed hard early. Over-exercising a growing giant-breed puppy is a genuine risk to their joints later in life, and this is worth discussing with your vet if you're unsure what's appropriate at a given age.
Kit worth having for this breed
A well-fitted, sturdy harness spreads pressure more evenly across the chest than a collar does, which matters for a dog this heavy and strong, and gives you better control without pulling directly on the neck. A robust, comfortable lead designed for a large or giant breed is worth choosing over anything flimsy.
Because walks are steadier rather than fast-paced with this breed, equipment doesn't need to be built for speed or agility so much as comfort and durability over a long, heavy dog's lifetime of daily use.
Kit for this breed
Things we stock that owners commonly reach for here. Nothing on this page depends on you buying one.
Padded No-Pull Dog Harness Vest
A soft padded vest harness that spreads pressure evenly across the chest for comfortable, no-pull control. Adjustable straps, breathable mesh lining and reflective trim make everyday walks safer.
From£35.99
Faux-Leather Dog Harness & Lead Set
A smart faux-leather harness and matching lead set with gold-tone hardware and quick-release buckles. The padded, adjustable harness spreads pressure comfortably for stylish, secure walks. Suits small dogs and cats.
From£13.99
Dog Car Seat Belt Safety Tether
An adjustable nylon car safety tether that clips into your seatbelt buckle and onto your dog's harness, keeping them safely restrained while you drive. Strong metal clasp and durable webbing.
£24.99
MPS Medical PetS Boot – Waterproof Paw Protector
A vet-recommended waterproof boot that keeps bandages, dressings, and casts dry during walks and wet weather.
£30.49
Common questions
- How many walks a day does a Dogue de Bordeaux need?
- Most do well with two shorter, steadier walks rather than one long one, particularly in warm weather when their short muzzle makes it harder for them to cool down. Exact needs vary by individual dog, age and health, so it's worth adjusting based on how your own dog copes.
- Can Dogue de Bordeaux dogs run long distances?
- It's not recommended. Their heavy build and short muzzle make sustained running and high-impact exercise harder on their joints and breathing than steady walking, so this is a breed better suited to moderate, controlled activity than distance running.
- At what age can a Dogue de Bordeaux puppy start proper walks?
- Gradually, and gently, since as a giant breed their joints and growth plates are still developing well into their second year. Speak to your vet about appropriate exercise levels for your puppy's specific age rather than following a generic schedule for a smaller or faster-maturing breed.
- Why do Dogue de Bordeaux dogs overheat so easily?
- Their short muzzle makes panting, a dog's main way of cooling down, less efficient than it is for a longer-nosed breed. Combined with their large size, this means exercise needs to be shorter and gentler in warm weather, with plenty of shade and water available.
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Written against guidance published by UK veterinary and welfare organisations. Always confirm specifics with your own vet.
Written by Matt Garnett, who runs Giddy Pets and is a lifelong pet owner — not a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your animal. How we write these guides.