Breed Profile – Dogo Argentino

History:

This breed was originally developed in Argentina, bred for the traits of pack hunting, guardianship and love for his family. Dogo Argentinos are a hybrid of as now extinct mastiff breed known as the Dog of Cordoba as well as Great Dane, Boxer, Spanish Mastiff, Bulldog, Bull Terrier, Great Pyrenees, Pointer, Irish Wolfhound and Dogue de Bordeaux. The resulting breed is a bullish and fearless hunter with great stamina and a coat capable of deflecting heat. Unfortunately these characteristics are also some which dog fighters prize heavily and Dogo Argentino were used in this violent “sport” tarnishing their reputation and causing them to be banned in some areas of the world. When in the proper hands Dogos are excellent family pets also capable of police work, military work, narcotics detection, competitive obedience and watchdogging.

Characteristics:

The Dogo Argentino is also known as the Argentinian Mastiff or Argentine Dogo, and is a muscular mastiff-type dog with a white coat. These dogs are excellent guardians of the home, and while they will not attack without provocation, they will not back down from a fight. This is an indoor dog, due to the light coat and temperament of these dogs, they do best indoors with their family to provide constant companionship. Some Dogos can be aggressive and owners need to be vigilant and watch for any signs of an increased prey drive or aggression toward other dogs and pets.

Temperament:

Dogo Argentino are loyal and affectionate to their family, and while slightly shy around strangers at first, they will quickly warm up to and cuddle with anyone the family accepts. They are very intelligent and powerful dogs that require direction from a strong-willed owner comfortable with displaying dominance. Dogos are eager to accept a pack role within the home and are easy to train. Adult Dogos are known to be aggressive with other dogs, but do quite well with other pets when raised along with them through puppyhood. Proper socialization at an early age is important, but it probably will not prevent dog aggression in the future.

Care/Exercise:

Dogo Argentino need a generous amount of exercise, one long walk or a quick jog each day should satisfy their needs. They do fine in apartments as well as homes without a yard as long as they are properly exercised. Brush the coat a few times a week to remove dead skin and hair, shampoo when necessary. The dog’s light coat makes them sensitive to the sun so always be sure to provide shade if they will be outdoors for more than 15 minutes.

Health Issues:

No known genetic defects, a generally healthy breed.

Average Height: 24 to 27 inches

Average Weight: 80 to 100 pounds

Colors: White.

Category: Mastiff