Dogo Argentino
Dogo Argentino
| Breed Highlight: |
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Also called the Argentinian Mastiff or the Argentine Dogo, they are a strong, athletic, and loyal breed. They can be both fierce hunters and gentle protectors of their humans. The breed is beloved for its loyalty and courage--qualities that make them excellent watchdogs. |
| Weight: |
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Female: 35 - 40 kg Male: 40 - 45 kg |
| Height: |
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60 - 68 cm |
| Life Expectancy: |
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10 - 15 years |
| Litter Size: |
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8 to 10 puppies |
| Breed Appearance: |
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The Dogo Argentino is a large white short-coated dog with black spots on its skin and has a muscular and strong body that rarely has any markings on its coat. The tail is set low, thick at the base and tapers to a point. |
| History: |
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A man named Antonio Nores Martinez from Argentina wanted a fearless hunting dog as well as being a loyal companion. In the 1920s, Martinez began to use selective breeding and aimed to reduce the dog's desire to fight so it could cooperate in a pack, and he worked to replace the fighting instinct with the need to hunt. Several breeds were mixed to achieve the desired traits that are seen in the Dogo Argentino breed. |
| Originally: |
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Although it was bred from fighting dogs, its aggressive traits were bred out so that it could cooperate with other dogs during hunts. It is not natural for them to want to fight, but some people train them to do so anyway because of their strength and courageous nature. |
| Currently Used As: |
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Dogo Argentinos are often used to help with big-game hunting, though they are also trained for police work, search and rescue, military work, and as service dogs. With proper training, they can make an awesome family companion and watchdog. |
| Training: |
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Go with their agility training, Tracking and Coursing, conformation, disc toss, and others. |
| Health & Care: |
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One of the major issues is deafness, with about 10 percent of dogs in the breed being deaf in one or both ears. The breed may develop other conditions, including hypothyroidism, glaucoma, and laryngeal paralysis. Dogo Argentinos may also suffer from hip dysplasia, which is common among large breeds. |
| Living Condition: |
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Dogo Argentinos thrive in environments where they have plenty of room to roam and things to do, ideally a farm or ranch. |
| Exercise: |
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The Dogo has a high activity level and needs a job to do, which can be anything from being your on-leash jogging companion to his traditional role as a hunting dog and home guardian. Frequent socialisation is essential. |
| Grooming: |
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Grooming the Dogo Argentino is easy because of his short coat. A bath every three months (or when he's dirty) is a good idea. Brush his sleek coat with a natural bristle brush or mitt once a week. His ears need to be checked every week and cleaned if needed and toenails trimmed once a month. |
| Pros: |
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Dogo Argentino requires minimal grooming. Brushing weekly and periodic nail trimming are the two most important grooming activities. They make excellent watch or guard dogs. |
| Cons: |
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Dogo Argentino requires vigorous exercise. These dogs are extremely strong and need a firm hand to train them and teach them manners to avoid unruly behaviour as adults. |
