If you’re a fan of classic buddy-cop comedies (and let's face it, who isn’t?), you probably remember Turner & Hooch. This hilarious and heartwarming 1989 film gave us the unlikely friendship between a straight-laced detective and his new slobbery sidekick. But have you ever wondered, “What breed is Hooch?” Spoiler alert: He’s a French Mastiff, and he’s as iconic as they come. Let’s break down why this massive dog stole the show—and our hearts.
Hooch is a Dogue de Bordeaux
Yep, that’s the fancy French name for Hooch’s breed! Also known as the Dogue de Bordeaux, this massive breed is one of the oldest French dog breeds, dating back over 600 years. They were originally bred for heavy-duty tasks like guarding castles, pulling carts, and even hauling supplies in wartime. If you’re looking for a dog that embodies power and strength, the Dogue de Bordeaux is basically the canine equivalent of a tank.
With that signature wrinkled face, muscular build, and deep chest, Hooch’s breed screams “tough,” but don’t be fooled by their appearance. Despite their intimidating looks, these dogs have a sweet, gentle nature—something we saw plenty of in the film.
Personality: Big Heart, Bigger Drool
If you’ve seen Turner & Hooch, you know that Hooch’s drool was basically a character of its own. Well, that’s not just Hollywood magic—that’s real life! French Mastiffs are notorious droolers, so if you’re thinking about bringing one into your home, you better stock up on towels and prepare for the slime. But hey, it’s a small price to pay for all that love.
Temperament-wise, Dogue de Bordeaux are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their families and are especially protective, which makes them excellent guard dogs. You can see why Scott Turner (played by Tom Hanks) needed Hooch by his side—this breed has a natural instinct to protect and defend.
But don’t expect them to be bouncing-off-the-walls type dogs. Despite their size, Dogue de Bordeaux are generally pretty laid-back. They prefer chilling with their family over chasing a ball around the yard (though they do enjoy the occasional romp).
The History Behind the Dogue de Bordeaux
Let’s take a quick detour into history. The Dogue de Bordeaux breed is believed to be a descendant of the ancient Molosser dogs, which were war dogs used by the Romans. Over the centuries, these strong canines were bred to guard livestock, protect estates, and even participate in bull-baiting and other intense activities (not something we endorse today, of course!).
By the 1800s, the breed was standardized in France, becoming known for its ability to work and protect. It’s hard to believe that a dog bred for such tough tasks could also be such a lovable companion, but that’s the magic of this breed.
Hooch’s Giant Size and Strength
One of the first things you notice about Hooch is his massive size. Dogue de Bordeaux are large, powerful dogs, typically weighing between 100 to 150 pounds (sometimes even more!). Standing about 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder, these dogs are built like bodybuilders. In fact, their broad heads are one of the largest in the canine world!
Despite their size, Dogue de Bordeaux are surprisingly agile and quick when they need to be. In Turner & Hooch, we see Hooch take down criminals and chase bad guys with the kind of power and speed that would make any law enforcement officer proud.
But let’s not kid ourselves—the real star of the show wasn’t Hooch’s brawn; it was his heart.
Caring for a Dogue de Bordeaux
Now, if you’re thinking about getting your own Hooch, there are a few things you should know. First off, these dogs require a lot of care and attention—especially when it comes to health. Due to their size, Dogue de Bordeaux can be prone to joint issues, so regular vet check-ups are essential. Also, their large, wrinkly faces need to be cleaned often to prevent skin infections (you don’t want those adorable wrinkles turning into a problem!).
Exercise is important, too. Despite their chill attitude, they still need daily walks and some playtime to stay healthy and happy. But don’t expect a French Mastiff to be your marathon buddy—these dogs are all about slow and steady rather than sprinting.
And yes, we must talk about the drool one more time. French Mastiffs have a lot of loose skin around their mouths, which leads to copious amounts of slobber. If you’re not a fan of constantly wiping down surfaces (or yourself), this might not be the breed for you. However, if you can embrace the drool, you’ll find a dog with one of the biggest hearts in the animal kingdom.
Is the Dogue de Bordeaux Right for You?
Before you rush to adopt a French Mastiff, ask yourself a few questions. Do you have the space for a large dog? These giants need room to move around and feel comfortable. Are you prepared for the drool (we can’t stress that enough)? And most importantly, are you ready for a loyal, protective, and incredibly loving companion?
The Dogue de Bordeaux isn’t the right fit for every household, but if you’re looking for a gentle giant with a heart of gold—just like Hooch—you’ll find an amazing friend in this breed.
Final Thoughts on Hooch
Hooch may have been a little rough around the edges, but by the end of Turner & Hooch, he had us all rooting for him. His loyalty, courage, and ability to turn any moment into a comedic one made him unforgettable. The Dogue de Bordeaux may not be a breed for everyone, but for those who welcome them into their lives, these dogs bring endless love—and yes, a whole lot of drool.
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