Argentine Dogo
The Argentine Dogo is known for its strength, tenacity, sharp sense of smell, and bravery. With such characteristics, the breed makes an ideal hunting dog. Argentine Dogos also tend to be very affectionate, extremely loyal, and family-friendly.
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Argentine Dogo Traits
General Appearance
The Argentine Dogo is mighty and athletic—standing in a stoic, rigid posture.
Coat and Colouring
Argentine Dogos are usually entirely white, though a dark or black spot around one eye is possible, and the muzzle may be slightly pink. Dogos with a black patch over one eye are known as piratas (Spanish for pirates).
Distinctive Physical Traits
In addition to its white coat, the Argentine Dogo's sturdy head, thick neck, muscular legs, and solid build are signature traits of this energetic dog.
Argentine Dogo Temperament
Argentine Dogos can be affectionate with children, so they often make excellent family pets. But as most large and powerful breeds do, Dogos require careful supervision when kids are around.
Because of their history as hunting dogs, Argentine Dogos often seek to be the pack leader. And their strength, energy, size, and high prey drive make them well-suited for the role.
Highly intelligent, Argentine Dogos also have a strong desire to work and overcome challenges. They also make courageous guard dogs thanks to their loyal, protective, tenacious natures.
Argentine Dogo History
The Argentine Dogo is a Mastiff-type breed that Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez and his brother developed in the 1920s. The two sought to create the perfect dog for hunting big game—such as wild boar and cougars—in packs. Martinez crossed the Cordoba Fighting Dog with multiple breeds to increase its size and hunting instinct while reducing its aggression. His efforts produced a dog that's both loyal to family and adept at hunting.
Though it goes against their nature and the breed standard, some Argentine Dogos have been crossbred for use in fighting. As a result, Australia and the United Kingdom have banned the breed.
The Argentine Dogo has been a member of the American Kennel Club foundation stock service since 1996.
Argentine Dogo Care
Nutrition
Argentine Dogos require a high-quality dog food formulated for their life stage and size. It may be helpful to ask your veterinarian or breeder about the ideal portion size and meal frequency for your Argentine Dogo.
Grooming
Weekly grooming and an occasional bath will keep your Argentine Dogo's coat in great shape. The Argentine Dogo's rapidly growing nails need regular trimming. And you should check the dog's ears frequently to avoid wax buildup and debris, as these could lead to an infection.
Argentine Dogos also benefit from a consistent dental care routine.
Exercise
Eager for daily exercise, Argentine Dogos tend to enjoy walks or runs in the neighborhood and playtime in the park.
Other suitable activities include tracking, hunting, and competitive obedience. An easy-going breed built for an active lifestyle, Argentine Dogos just generally enjoy spending time outdoors.
Just like people, Argentine Dogos that exercise often maintain good physical and mental health.
Training
Argentine Dogos are very versatile and possess many skills. For this reason, people have used them for hunting big game and performing military and police work. They've also filled roles on search and rescue teams and as service and guide dogs. As such, they're highly trainable.
Because they have guarding tendencies, Argentine Dogos require firm, consistent obedience training and early socialization to prevent reservation with strangers and to ensure predictable behavior.
Argentine Dogo Genetic Health Conditions
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Disproportionate Dwarfism (Discovered in the Dogo Argentino)
Disproportionate Dwarfism is a disorder that affects bone and cartilage development, leading to changes in limb length and conformation, body length and height, and head shape. The associated genetic variant has been identified in the Dogo Argentino.
Knowing if your Argentine Dogo is a carrier or at-risk for these conditions can help you and your veterinarian plan for your pup's lifelong care. With Wisdom Panel™ Premium, you can get results for over 200 genetic health tests.
Breed Group
Guard
Dogs of the Guard Group were bred to guard people and property. They are often quick to learn and these intelligent, capable animals make solid companions.
Resources
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/dogo-argentino/
https://books.google.com/books?id=-xE9DgAAQBAJ
Reviewed 26 July 2020 by Annette Louviere, DVM