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Meet Hulk, Lionel Messi’s Dogue de Bordeaux: How much the giant breed costs and more

Bringing home a dogue de Bordeaux is not a small expense. Puppies typically cost between $1,800 and $2,500.

Moneycontrol News | August 31, 2025 / 15:42 IST
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Lionel Messi’s beloved dog, Hulk a massive dogue de Bordeaux, has become almost as iconic among fans as the football legend himself. (Credit- Instagram)
Lionel Messi’s beloved dog, Hulk, a massive dogue de Bordeaux, has become almost as iconic among fans as the football legend himself. (Credit- Instagram)
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This powerful yet affectionate breed seems to mirror Messi’s grand presence both on and off the pitch.(Credit- Instagram)
This powerful yet affectionate breed seems to mirror Messi’s grand presence both on and off the pitch. (Credit- Instagram)
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Bringing home a dogue de Bordeaux is not a small expense. Puppies typically cost between $1,800 and $2,500, while pedigreed or show-quality pups can easily reach $3,500 or more. But the real financial commitment comes after purchase.(Credit- Instagram)
Bringing home a dogue de Bordeaux is not a small expense. Puppies typically cost between $1,800 and $2,500, while pedigreed or show-quality pups can easily reach $3,500 or more. But the real financial commitment comes after purchase. (Credit- Instagram)
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According to the UK charity PDSA, caring for this breed requires a minimum of $125 per month, covering food, vet care, and general upkeep. Over a lifetime, that can total $20,000 or more.(Credit- Instagram)
According to the UK charity PDSA, caring for this breed requires a minimum of $125 per month, covering food, vet care, and general upkeep. Over a lifetime, that can total $20,000 or more. (Credit- Instagram)
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The Dogue de Bordeaux is one of France's oldest mastiff breeds, originally bred for cattle work and as a guardian dog. (Credit- Instagram)
The Dogue de Bordeaux is one of France's oldest mastiff breeds, originally bred for cattle work and as a guardian dog. (Credit- Instagram)
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When Messi moved with his family to Miami, fans noticed Hulk didn't make the trip. At seven years old, Hulk is considered a senior, and due to common health concerns in large breeds - such as hip dysplasia and heart issues — the family decided he would remain in Barcelona, where he could stay comfortable without the stress of relocation. (Credit- Instagram)
When Messi moved with his family to Miami, fans noticed Hulk didn't make the trip. At seven years old, Hulk is considered a senior, and due to common health concerns in large breeds - such as hip dysplasia and heart issues — the family decided he would remain in Barcelona, where he could stay comfortable without the stress of relocation. (Credit- Instagram)
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Despite Hulk's absence, the Messi household still has a furry friend in Miami: Abu, a rare apricot toy poodle, who is small enough to travel easily and adapt to new environments. (Credit- Instagram)
Despite Hulk's absence, the Messi household still has a furry friend in Miami: Abu, a rare apricot toy poodle, who is small enough to travel easily and adapt to new environments. (Credit- Instagram)

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