Dogo Argentino

Get to Know Dogo Argentinos

• Bred for Big Game Hunting: The Dogo Argentino was originally bred in Argentina by Dr. Antonio Nores Martínez in the 1920s to hunt large game such as wild boar and puma. This breed was developed from the now-extinct Cordoba Fighting Dog, crossed with various other breeds like the Great Dane, Boxer, and Pointer to enhance its strength, stamina, and hunting abilities.
• Powerful and Courageous: Known for their bravery and tenacity, Dogos are fearless hunters and protectors. They are highly muscular and powerful, yet they possess a calm demeanor when not on the hunt. This combination of strength and calmness makes them excellent family guardians, though they require an experienced owner to handle their strong-willed nature.
• Loyal Family Companions: Despite their rugged hunting background, Dogos are deeply affectionate and loyal to their families. They are known to be gentle with children and can be very protective of their home. However, due to their natural guarding instincts, early socialization is essential to ensure they are friendly with strangers and other animals.
• Short White Coat: Dogo Argentinos are easily recognizable by their short, white coat, which helps them blend into the landscape while hunting. Their coat requires minimal grooming, but regular checks for skin issues are important, as they can be prone to sunburn and skin irritations due to the lack of pigmentation.
• Health and Longevity: Like many large breeds, Dogos are prone to hip dysplasia and deafness, with about 10% of the breed affected by congenital deafness. Regular health screenings and proper care can help manage these issues, ensuring a healthy life of 9-12 years.

Breed History

The Dogo Argentino, a powerful and athletic breed, originated in Argentina during the 1920s. Dr. Antonio Nores Martínez developed this breed by crossing the now-extinct Cordoba Fighting Dog with other breeds, including the Great Dane, Boxer, Pointer, and Bull Terrier, to create an all-around working dog. The goal was to produce a breed capable of big-game hunting, particularly wild boar, while being loyal and protective of its family. Over the years, the Dogo Argentino has earned a reputation for its bravery, versatility, and affectionate nature, making it a popular choice for hunters, working roles, and as a family companion.

Personality and Behaviour

• Brave and Tenacious: The Dogo Argentino is renowned for its courage and determination, particularly in hunting and protective roles. This breed is fearless when facing challenges, whether it's tracking prey or guarding its home. Their tenacity is matched by their ability to remain composed under pressure.
• Loyal and Protective: Dogo Argentinos are deeply loyal to their families and possess a strong protective instinct. While they are affectionate and gentle with their loved ones, they are naturally wary of strangers, making them excellent guard dogs. Proper socialization is crucial to ensure they can distinguish between genuine threats and harmless interactions.
• Energetic and Intelligent: These dogs are highly active and require both physical and mental stimulation to thrive. They are intelligent and eager to learn, which makes them responsive to training. Their energy and drive mean they excel in tasks that require focus and endurance, such as agility training or advanced obedience work.

Care

• Exercise: This breed is highly energetic and requires vigorous daily exercise to remain healthy and well-behaved. Long walks, jogging, and activities like hiking or agility training are excellent for meeting their exercise needs. In addition, they benefit from interactive play and tasks that engage their minds, such as puzzle toys or scent work. Without sufficient exercise, they can become bored and may develop destructive behaviors.
• Grooming: The Dogo Argentino has a short, smooth coat that is easy to maintain. Weekly brushing is sufficient to remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy. Bathing is only necessary occasionally or when the dog becomes dirty. Regular cleaning of their ears and trimming of nails is essential, as is daily dental care to prevent oral health issues. Due to their white coat, they are prone to sunburn and skin sensitivities, so it's important to limit prolonged sun exposure.
• Training and Socialization: Training a Dogo Argentino requires a confident, experienced owner who can establish clear boundaries with positive reinforcement. These dogs are intelligent and eager to please but can be strong-willed at times. Early socialization is critical to expose them to a variety of people, animals, and environments, helping them develop into well-mannered adults. Consistent training is key to managing their protective instincts and ensuring they respond appropriately in different situations.