Dogo Argentino
Appearance
| Dogo Argentino Quick Summary | |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Argentinian Mastiff |
| Origin | Argentina |
| Lineage | Pedigree |
| Size | Large |
| Height (at withers) | 24-27in (61-69cm) |
| Weight | 80-100lbs (36-45kg) |
| Hair Colour(s) | White |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Energy Level | Medium |
| Litter size | 4-8 |
| Shedding | Medium |
| Grooming | Low |
| Barking Tendency | Medium |
| Exercise requirements | Medium |
| Ease of training | Medium |
| Suitability for kids | Low |
| Animal compatability | Low |
| Aggression levels | High |
| Distress if left | Medium |
The Dogo Argentino is a large and muscular dog. The body is athletic and deep chested with straight forelegs, an abundance of skin around the neck and a thick tail carried low. The head is round and large with a strong muzzle, a black nose, widely spaced eyes and high set, cropped ears that stand erect. The single coat is thick and glossy, and the colouring tends to be white, sometimes with a black spot on the head (known as a pirata).
Temperament
Dogo Argentinos are loyal dogs that can be surprisingly playful and affectionate. They make fine companions and guardians but this powerful breed is not suited to everyone. Early obedience training is essential, and these intelligent dogs are quite easy to train, but they require owners to be confident, dominant and fair. As a result they are only suited to those with experience of dog ownership and training. Without adequate attention and exercise they can become bored, which can lead to destructive behaviour. Despite being sociable, Dogo Argentinos are not suited to families with children, but they can be fine with other pets when raised with them from a young age. They can be aggressive with other dogs, although do not usually provoke confrontation. Their natural guarding instincts make them relatively effective watchdogs.
History & Skills
Dogo Argentinos originate from Argentina, where they were developed in the 1920s by two brothers who wanted a dog that would make a good companion, a good pack hunter and a guardian. Many breeds were used in developing this dog, including Boxers, Bulldogs, Bull Terriers, Dogue de Bordeaux, Great Danes, Great Pyrenees, Irish Wolfhounds, Pointers, Spanish Mastiffs, and the now extinct Dog of Cordoba. The result of all this effort was the Dogo Argentino, a fearless hunter possessing great stamina and a white coat to deflect heat. This breed is banned in the UK under the Dangerous Dogs Act due to their unfortunate use in dog fighting, something that is a fault of people, not the dog, as their range of skills also includes guarding, hunting, tracking, and they are used for police work as well as guide dogs and watchdogs.
Breed Specific Ailments
Dogo Argentinos tend to live between 10-12 years. Some of the health problems noted in this breed includes hypothyroidism and deafness, and like in many large breeds, hip dysplasia.
Grooming
Dogo Argentinos are medium shedders and so may not be suited to those suffering with allergies. Their grooming requirements are low however, and their single coat will simply need occasional brushing. These dogs tend to have very low dog odour, and their fast growing nails will need trimming.
Exercise & Environment
Dogo Argentinos tend to live indoors and can be suitable for small homes such as apartments as long as they are given regular exercise. They will need access to a secure outside space but should not be left outside in freezing temperatures due to their single, heat reflective coats.
Recognition
 | FCI - Federation Cynologique Internationale | |
 | The Kennel Club (UK) |
Breed Clubs
Coming soon!
Owners Gallery
Pretty empy right now. If you would like to see you dog here please email a photo to BFD Photos along with your name, your dog's name & age, breed and rough location (please keep image file sizes reasonable!).