Dogue de Bordeaux

Their great size, rapid growth and relatively narrow gene pool all play a part. The breed is known for heart disease, bloat and certain cancers, and giant dogs in general tend to live shorter lives than small ones. Choosing a breeder who health-tests parents and tracks how long their dogs live, then keeping your own dog lean and fit, gives the best chance of a longer life.

With solid training and socializing, many are gentle and affectionate with their family, including respectful children. Their size alone can knock a small child flat, though, and the guarding instinct means visitors need careful introductions. They suit families with experience of large dogs, a calm home and time for training better than first-time owners.

A lot. The loose lips hold water and saliva, which fly out whenever the dog shakes its head, drinks or gets excited. Most owners keep towels around the house and wipe the dog's mouth after drinking. Drooling that suddenly increases, especially with pawing at the mouth or trouble swallowing, needs a vet visit.

Yes. Hooch, the slobbering co-star of the 1989 comedy, was played by a Dogue de Bordeaux named Beasley. The film introduced the breed to a wide audience in North America, where it had been almost unknown. It also set some unrealistic expectations, since a real Dogue needs serious training and is far more than a comic sidekick.

It is debated. A raised bowl can be more comfortable for a big dog with stiff joints, but a large study found that large and giant breeds fed from raised bowls had a higher risk of bloat. Many owners keep bowls at floor level or only slightly raised unless their vet advises otherwise, and focus on smaller meals and slower eating.