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 our shop, for this use: Reflective vest harness + 1.5 m leash for small dogs (€36.90) · the whole shop
In our shop, for this use: Adjustable dog car seat belt tether ($21.90, ships from the US) · the US shop
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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
- Car seat cover for dogs: how to choose the right one
Fur, scratches, mud: the back seat takes a beating with a dog on board. What to look for in a genuinely protective cover, and why it's no substitute for a safety harness.
- Retractable or standard leash: which one for your dog?
Safety, leash training, comfort in town: retractable or standard leash, the comparison to choose the right lead for your dog and your walks.
- Pug: brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome and car safety precautions
A landmark study identifies the facial traits that worsen the Pug's obstructive airway syndrome, with heat and exertion as key aggravating factors. How to adjust car trips to limit respiratory distress episodes.
- Dog sick in the car: understanding and beating motion sickness
Drooling, panting, vomiting: motion sickness mainly affects young dogs. Step-by-step habituation, boot setup and gestures that reduce nausea.