What kind of dog was in “Turner & Hooch”?

Film History Isn’t Just About Famous People – It’s Also About Dogs

Some of the biggest and most beloved films throughout history have starred not only people but also unforgettable dogs.

“Turner & Hooch” is one of those films. Below, you’ll learn more about this charming classic, where the main characters are played by Tom Hanks and the dog Beasley. Beasley was a Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as a French Mastiff.

Meet Beasley and His Role in the Film

Beasley was the real name of the dog who starred opposite Tom Hanks in Turner & Hooch. In the movie, he played “Hooch,” a slobbery, slightly chaotic police dog. Beasley’s actual owner and trainer, Clint Rowe, even had a small role in the film as an ASPCA officer.

Beasley was a large Dogue de Bordeaux (French Mastiff, also abbreviated DDB) and was born in 1978.

In Turner & Hooch, we follow a neat-freak detective (played by Tom Hanks) whose orderly life is turned upside down when he’s forced to move in with a messy, snorting, and drooling dog named Hooch.

As the story progresses, this unlikely pair grow closer, learning to appreciate each other’s strengths and forming a strong bond.

The film premiered in 1989 and remains a beloved family movie to this day.

What Kind of Dog Is the Dogue de Bordeaux?

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a large dog breed often confused with the Mastiff. The two share similar facial features, with lots of skin folds and a short coat.

The Dogue de Bordeaux has its origins as a guard dog. Its ancestors were used for both guarding and hunting, and this heritage is still reflected in the breed’s behavior and instincts today.

These dogs enjoy keeping watch and will often choose a spot in the home where they can keep an eye on their surroundings.

The Dogue de Bordeaux is an empathetic, affectionate, and emotionally sensitive breed. It is known for being loyal, caring, and attentive.

On average, a Dogue de Bordeaux lives 5–8 years, and typically weighs between 54 and 65 kg (120–145 lbs).

If you’re looking for a loving, devoted, and trustworthy family dog, this might be the perfect breed for you.

A Dogue de Bordeaux will do everything it can to protect and care for its loved ones.

How to Train a Dogue de Bordeaux

A Dogue de Bordeaux should not begin intense training until it’s at least 18 months old. This is a large breed, and its bones and joints are still developing during the first 1.5 years. Overexertion—such as running, jumping up and down stairs, or excessive outdoor exercise—can cause strain, injury, or joint damage early in life.

After 18 months, you can gradually introduce more advanced training.

It’s important to walk your adult Dogue de Bordeaux daily to maintain fitness. You can also mix in play in the park or swimming, which are gentler on the joints.

This breed is also well-suited for activities like obedience training, scent tracking, and rescue work. Thanks to its gentle and loving nature, it can also excel as a therapy dog or emotional support companion.

Overall, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a robust and healthy breed, not particularly prone to disease due to a weak immune system. However, as they age, some dogs may develop heart conditions, joint issues (like hip dysplasia), or even epilepsy.

Caring for a Dogue de Bordeaux

Taking care of a Dogue de Bordeaux is relatively simple, but regular grooming is important. It’s a good idea to brush the dog once a week, with extra attention to skin folds, especially around the face.

Because of these deep folds, the dog should be bathed regularly—about every 2 to 3 weeks, or as needed. After bathing, it’s crucial to thoroughly dry the dog, especially between the skin folds, to prevent moisture buildup that can lead to irritation or infection.

You should also trim the dog’s nails about twice a month using a nail clipper designed for large, thick nails.

Start grooming early in puppyhood. With a gentle approach, grooming can become a bonding ritual—a calm and positive time that strengthens your relationship.

 

Our team may have used AI to assist in the creation of this content, which has been reviewed by our editors.