Dogo Argentino Dog and Puppy Profile

• Origin: Argentina
  
  
• Purpose: Hunting, Guardian
  
  
• Size: Large
  
  
• Coat Color: Predominantly White
  
  
• Temperament: Loyal, Protective, Courageous
  
  
• Lifespan: 10-12 years
  
  
• Hypoallergenic: No
  
  
• Exercise Needs: High
  
  
• Grooming Needs: Low (short coat requires minimal grooming)
  
  
• Trainability: High
  
  
• Common Health Issues: Hip Dysplasia, Deafness, Skin Allergies

The Dogo Argentino is a relatively fresh dog breed, being originated in Argentina in 1928.

A doctor named Antonio Nores Martinez set out to develop a new dog breed by cross-breeding the now-extinct Cordoba fighting dog with the bulldog, bullterrier, boxer, Great Dane, Spanish mastiff, Irish wolfhound, Pyrenean mastiff, and pointer. 

Nores Martinez's breed was initially employed for dog fighting, but he eventually took some of the dogs hunting. The Dogo Argentinos, who hunted pumas, boars, and other predators in the Argentine bush, often worked in packs and relied on their strength, daring, and smell.

The breed emerged in the United States in the 1970s and remains quite uncommon. The American Kennel Club only recognized it in 2020.

The Dogo Argentino has a unique set of features that make it an impressive breed. Physically, it is solid and athletic, with a sleek all-white coat. It is known for its intellect and loyalty, and it creates deep relationships with its family, making it an ideal companion and guardian.

Its bravery and fearlessness are legendary, deriving from its beginnings as a big-game hunting hound bred to kill dangerous animals such as wild boar.

Despite its commanding presence, the Dogo Argentino is usually friendly and affectionate with its human companions, particularly children.

However, early socialization and training are required to ensure a well-rounded temperament. While it can be reticent with strangers, it will fiercely protect its loved ones when necessary.

On average, Dogo Argentinos live for 10 to 12 years. Individual longevity, as with any breed, might vary depending on genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health care.

Responsible breeding procedures and good veterinary care can help extend a Dogo Argentino's life.

Owners should also provide a well-balanced diet and appropriate mental stimulation to their Dogo Argentino companions to promote general health and lifespan.

Dogo Argentinos aren't known for excessive barking. They bark when they detect a threat or to warn their owners of anything strange. Individual temperament and upbringing, as with all dogs, have a considerable impact on their barking habits.

Adequate mental and physical stimulation, combined with persistent training, can help reduce excessive barking. Early socializing can also help dogs become used to different stimuli and reduce reactive barking.

Overall, while Dogo Argentinos may bark to communicate, they rarely bark excessively when properly educated and given a stimulating environment.

Due to their abundant energy levels, Dogo Argentinos necessitate vigorous daily exercise. Additionally, they benefit greatly from ongoing training and socialization from a young age. Grooming needs are relatively simple for this breed, although they do require protection from the sun.

Exercise

To keep your Dogo Argentino healthy and content, it requires at least an hour of exercise each day. While brisk walks suffice, allowing them to roam in a safe environment truly exhausts them.

This is why homes with spacious yards suit them best. Engage them in activities like fetch or dog sports such as agility, obedience, or weight pull for added stimulation. These not only provide physical challenges but also help your dog expend mental energy effectively.

Grooming

The Dogo Argentino's sleek and short coat tends to shed moderately and generally lacks a strong canine scent.

It is advisable to brush your dog weekly using a soft bristle brush or rubber curry brush to eliminate loose hair and evenly distribute natural oils. Occasional baths may be required when the dog gets dirty.

Regularly inspect your dog's ears for any signs of dirt, foreign particles, redness, or other irregularities at least once a week. Lastly, make sure to brush your dog's teeth daily to maintain oral hygiene.

Training

Training should commence early with Dogo Argentinos, aiming to socialize them from a young age. It can be challenging to handle these dogs once they mature into strong, large adults if they lack manners.

Introduce your Dogo to different individuals, other canines, and different environments to foster confidence and ease.

The greater exposure a Dogo has to positive interactions with unfamiliar people and dogs, the higher the probability of them being friendly rather than defensive.

Some common health problems in Dogo Argentinos may include:

• Deafness: White coat coloration is often associated with congenital deafness in this breed.
  
  
• Hip Dysplasia: A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and mobility issues.
  
  
• Skin Allergies: Some Dogo Argentinos may be prone to skin allergies and irritations, requiring special care and attention.
  
  
• Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and skin/coat problems.
  
  
• Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this condition affects the elbow joint, causing pain and lameness.
  
  
• Heart Disease: Some Dogo Argentinos may be prone to various heart conditions, including cardiomyopathy.

Diet and nutrition are critical to the health and well-being of Dogo Argentinos. As a huge and energetic breed, they require a well-balanced diet rich in high-quality protein to meet their muscle mass and energy requirements.

Select a dog food designed exclusively for large breeds, ensuring that it contains vital elements such as protein, fat, carbs, vitamins, and minerals.

Monitor portion amounts to avoid overeating, which can contribute to obesity and other health problems. Consider consuming several small meals throughout the day to improve digestion and reduce bloating.

Furthermore, always provide fresh water and speak with a veterinarian to develop a meal plan that is appropriate for your Dogo Argentino's age, weight, activity level, and any particular health issues.

Pros

• Loyalty: Dogo Argentinos are fiercely loyal to their families and make excellent companions.
  
  
• Protective Instincts: They have a strong protective instinct and will guard their loved ones when needed.
  
  
• Athleticism: Dogos are athletic and excel in various dog sports and activities.
  
  
• Trainability: With proper training and socialization, they can be obedient and well-behaved.
  
  
• Versatility: Originally bred as hunting dogs, they are also adaptable to various roles such as therapy and service work.
  
  
• Minimal Grooming: Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making maintenance easier.

Cons

• Strong Prey Drive: Dogo Argentinos have a high prey drive, which may lead to chasing smaller animals.
  
  
• Potential Aggression: Without proper socialization and training, they may exhibit aggression towards other dogs or strangers.
  
  
• Health Issues: They are prone to certain health problems such as deafness, hip dysplasia, and skin allergies.
  
  
• Exercise Needs: Dogos require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
  
  
• Not Suitable for Novice Owners: Due to their strength and protective instincts, they may not be suitable for inexperienced dog owners.
  
  
• Potential Legal Restrictions: In some areas, Dogo Argentinos may be subject to breed-specific legislation or restrictions.

The Dogo Argentino is quite uncommon in North America. Yet, it is still worth checking with local animal shelters and rescue organizations, or breed-specific rescues.

These places might have Dogo Argentinos in need of loving homes. Also, you can search online platforms dedicated to pet adoption, where you may find Dogo Argentinos available for adoption.

If you prefer to buy from a breeder, ensure they are reputable and prioritize the health and welfare of their dogs. Research breeders carefully, visit their facilities, and ask questions about their breeding practices and health screening.

If you are looking for a respectable breeder puppy, expect to pay between $2,000 and $3,000, however, this can vary greatly based on bloodline and other factors.