🧳Travelling with a Dogue de Bordeaux: car, crate and rules

Dogue de Bordeaux : Air conditioning in the car is a must in summer: the breed is highly exposed to heatstroke. An estate boot with a divider and loading ramp is more realistic than a crate at this size, and never leave it waiting in a parked vehicle.

In short: Molosser of 45 kg to 60 kg and beyond, short fawn coat, low to moderate energy. An affectionate, calm molosser, a quiet guardian very close to its family. A massive head, short face and heavy drooling: towels in every room, folds cleaned several times a week and strict heat management set the daily rhythm.

In the car with a Dogue de Bordeaux

At 45 to 65 kg, the only genuinely safe option is a crash-tested crate of about 105 cm secured in the boot — failing that, a solid partition grille. An unrestrained dog of this weight becomes a projectile under braking — and a possible fine for distracted driving.

Trains, planes, holidays

Too big for the cabin, the Dogue de Bordeaux flies in the pressurised hold in an IATA-approved crate — an ordeal to reserve for unavoidable trips, and one many airlines refuse for brachycephalic breeds, vulnerable to heat and respiratory stress. On trains, a muzzle and lead meet the rules. Get it used to the crate weeks before departure: left open at home with treats inside, it becomes a den rather than a trap.

Identification and good habits

Before any departure, check the trio: microchip, up-to-date vaccines and an EU passport for trips abroad. In warm weather a Dogue de Bordeaux never stays in a parked car: fifteen minutes is enough for tragedy.

Frequently asked questions

What crate size for a Dogue de Bordeaux?

About 105 cm long: able to stand without hunching and turn around freely. For flying, check the model’s IATA dimensions.

Can a Dogue de Bordeaux fly in the cabin?

No, it exceeds the cabin limit (8 kg including the bag): it travels in the pressurised hold in an IATA crate — avoid it when you can.

The guides that apply to you

The rest of the Dogue de Bordeaux’s gear

Travel & safety for related breeds and species