The Dogo Argentino is a powerful, loyal, courageous, and impressive breed that has gained popularity in recent years due to its strong build, athleticism, and amazing physical appearance.
In this article, we will discuss the history, physical characteristics, temperament, and health of the Dogo Argentino, so that you can decide whether this breed is right for you.
History of the Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino, also known as the Argentine Mastiff, is a breed that has a rich history dating back to the 1920s.
It was developed by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez, who was a passionate big-game hunter, with the intention of creating a dog breed that was capable of hunting large game, such as wild boars and pumas.
Origins of the Breed
Dr. Martinez was inspired by his love for hunting and his desire to create the ultimate hunting dog. He set out to create a dog that was strong, fearless, loyal, and had an excellent sense of smell.
To achieve this, he crossed several breeds, including the Pointer, Boxer, Bulldog, and Great Dane, among others. The result was a powerful and agile dog that was capable of tracking and taking down large game with ease.
Throughout the breeding process, Dr. Martinez was very selective about the traits he wanted in the Dogo Argentino. He wanted a dog that was not only physically strong but also had a high level of intelligence and trainability.
He also wanted a dog that was loyal and affectionate towards its owner, making it a great companion for hunting expeditions and a loyal family pet at the same time.
The Breed’s Hunting Skills
The Dogo Argentino was specifically bred for big-game hunting. Dr. Martinez wanted a dog that could track, hold and take down large game, such as wild boars and pumas, with ease.
The Dogo Argentino is still used for hunting in some parts of the world today, but it has also become a popular breed for other activities, such as search and rescue, police work, and even as a therapy dog.
Recognition by Kennel Clubs
The Dogo Argentino was first recognized by the Argentine Kennel Club in 1964. Then it was also recognized by the Federación Cinológicue Internationale (FCI) in 1973 and the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2020.
Physical Characteristics
The Dogo Argentino is a fascinating breed of dog that boasts impressive physical characteristics. From its size and weight to its coat and color, there is much to admire about this breed.
But the Dogo Argentino is not just a pretty face – it has several distinctive features that make it stand out from other dog breeds.
Size and Weight
The Dogo Argentino is a large and muscular breed. But don’t let its size fool you – the Dogo Argentino is also incredibly agile and athletic, making it an excellent hunting companion.
Male Dogo Argentinos stand 24 to 26.5 inches tall and weigh 80 to 100 pounds. Females are slightly shorter – they are 24 to 25.5 inches tall at the shoulders but also weigh between 80 and 100 pounds.
Coat and Color
One of the most striking things about the Dogo Argentino is its coat. This breed has a short, smooth coat that is white in color. This coat is easy to maintain and requires minimal grooming.
However, this breed can be prone to skin allergies and other skin conditions, so it’s important to keep their coat clean and free of irritants. Regular brushing and bathing can help keep your Dogo Argentino’s coat healthy and shiny.
Distinctive Features
The Dogo Argentino has several distinctive features that make it stand out from other dog breeds. One of these is its strong, muscular build, which gives it the power and agility needed for big-game hunting.
Another distinctive feature of the Dogo Argentino is its excellent sense of smell. This breed has a powerful nose that allows it to track and locate game in dense forests and other tricky environments.
Temperament and Personality
General Disposition
The Dogo Argentino is loyal and affectionate with its owner. This breed is very protective of its family and can be trained to be an excellent protection and guard dog.
However, this breed can be aggressive towards other animals, including other dogs, due to its strong prey drive. Socialization and training from a young age can help to mitigate this tendency.
Intelligence and Trainability
The Dogo Argentino is a highly intelligent and trainable dog that responds well to positive reinforcement and can learn to perform a wide variety of tasks, from basic obedience commands to complex hunting maneuvers.
However, many Dogo Argentinos are strong-willed and may require patience and consistency. The breed is not the best option for first-time handlers with no training experience.
Health and Lifespan
Common Health Issues
Like all dog breeds, the Dogo Argentino is prone to certain health issues, such as:
- Hip Dysplasia: Malformed hips causing joint laxity, early onset arthritis, pain, lameness, and mobility issues
- Congenital Deafness: White dog breeds are often born deaf, and this canine is no exception to the phenomenon
- Thyroid Problems: Members of the breed often suffer from thyroid conditions resulting in hormonal imbalances
Preventative Care and Regular Checkups
Preventative care is important to keep your Dogo Argentino healthy. This includes regular veterinary checkups, vaccinations, deworming, and flea and tick prevention.
It’s also essential to provide your Dogo Argentino with quality food, proper exercise, and mental stimulation.
Expected Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Dogo Argentino is around 9 to 15 years. With proper care, many members of the breed can lead a long and healthy life.
Conclusion
The Dogo Argentino is a unique and fascinating breed of dog that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It has a rich history and is known for its physical strength, loyalty, and affection towards its owners.
While the Dogo Argentino is prone to certain health issues and aggression towards other animals, proper socialization and care from a young age can help prevent these problems from arising.
