Let's talk Dogo Argentinos
Athletic, affectionate, and alert, the Dogo Argentino is a breed that stands apart for their intensity as well as their distinctive all-white coat. A traditional sport dog, the Dogo Argentino possesses a very powerful body graced with substantial limbs able to withstand the most vigorous of activity. Despite their background, this is a dog that enjoys family time, too. They are totally devoted to loved ones so guarding the homefront is a given. When everyone’s safe and sound, expect lots of cuddle time, too - and they’ll pull in like a lapdog, big muscles and all.
Official name: Dogo Argentino
Other names: Argentine Dogo, Argentine Mastiff
Origins: Argentina
Drooling tendencies
2 out of 5Shedding Level
3 out of 5Energy level*
5 out of 5Compatibility with other pets
2 out of 5Warm weather?
4 out of 5Suited to apartment living
2 out of 5Family pet?*
3 out of 5Can be left alone
3 out of 5
| Male | Female |
|---|---|
| Height | Height |
| 24 - 27 in | 23 - 25 in |
| Weight | Weight |
| 80 - 100 lb | 75 - 90 lb |
| Life stages | |
|---|---|
| Puppy | Adult |
| 2 to 15 months | 15 months to 5 years |
| Mature | Senior |
| 5 to 8 years | from 8 years |
| Baby | |
| Birth to 2 months | |
Drooling tendencies
2 out of 5Shedding Level
3 out of 5Energy level*
5 out of 5Compatibility with other pets
2 out of 5Warm weather?
4 out of 5Suited to apartment living
2 out of 5Family pet?*
3 out of 5Can be left alone
3 out of 5
| Male | Female |
|---|---|
| Height | Height |
| 24 - 27 in | 23 - 25 in |
| Weight | Weight |
| 80 - 100 lb | 75 - 90 lb |
| Life stages | |
|---|---|
| Puppy | Adult |
| 2 to 15 months | 15 months to 5 years |
| Mature | Senior |
| 5 to 8 years | from 8 years |
| Baby | |
| Birth to 2 months | |
Tailored nutrition for your Dogo Argentino
Get to know the Dogo Argentino
All you need to know about the breed
Regal bearing. Check. Huge athleticism. Check. Docility. Check. The Dogo Argentino dog has a mix of superb traits that any pet owner would appreciate. A mastiff-type dog – the group of breeds marked by a very powerful musculature and substantial stature – the Dogo Argentino is known for their protective nature and a superb devotion to family. They have a natural wariness of strangers, but that can be controlled by early socialization with animals and humans alike.
The Dogo Argentino breed also has very heightened senses, most of all in their super sense of smell and very alert expression. For this reason, they’re often used in police and search and rescue work, or as service dogs. No matter how you put them to use, this is a dog who thoroughly enjoys learning so can easily follow your lead.
That said, the Dogo Argentino is no wallflower. Key to their superb character is a great amount of fortitude. They were bred for use in sport so have a willingness to duke it out with any would-be aggressors who may threaten those close to them. They are tireless so are excellent watchdogs. All of this means they are not perhaps a dog for first-time owners.
It’s easy to think that dogs with this kind of strength are on the more contentious side; actually, the Dogo Argentino is very sweet-natured. They may give off a tough look but they are mushballs underneath it all.
Two facts about Dogo Argentinos
1. White out
Few canines come in only one color but the Dogo Argentino is one. Their short, trim coat comes in a single hue: White, which makes them instantly recognizable. They often have a black patch or spotting over one of their eyes, the only color intrusion in their frosty fur.
2. Don’t leave me!
Most dogs like being part of the group – dogs or humans – and the Dogo Argentino is no exception. Dogs are pack animals so are relaxed when in the company of others. Having to be home all day while their family is at work and school doesn’t sit well with this breed. Bringing in a fellow canine will help the Dogo Argentino adjust until they see your face again.
History of the breed
Their name is an instant giveaway: The Dogo Argentino was indeed developed in Argentina by a gentleman named Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez, a young Argentinian surgeon who in 1928 started on a course of breeding a dog that could be used for sport in a nation known for its rugged terrain.
Martinez wanted the new breed to be devoted to their human owner, but to also be fearless. He chose the Fighting Dog of Cordoba as his starting point, given that breed’s intense courage, mixing in many other breeds including the Bulldog, Bull Terriers, and the Mastiff. The prized dog that resulted also showed a talent for guarding home and turf.
The Dogo Argentino was recognised by their home country’s Fédéracion Cinologica Argentina in 1964, by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1973, and by the United Kennel Club in 2001.
From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Dogo Argentinos
1.Ears
2.Head
3.Body
4.Tail
5.Coat
Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Dogo Argentino
On the move
Although they made their way into the family unit some time ago, the Dogo Argentino has a history as a sporting dog thus typically has a very high prey drive. They may chase after furry friends – typically ones who are smaller than them (and who isn’t?) – if off leash. A lot will depend on how well you train your Dogo Argentino from puppyhood. Make sure to introduce them to other animals so they’ll be well acquainted with fellow members of the animal kingdom.
Hard to hear
There are many fabulous traits that define the Dogo Argentino: Strong physicality and great health but approximately 10% can be deaf in one or both ears. The white-coat related deafness is genetic so it is recommended to test the puppies. Giving puppies the BAER test (brainstem auditory evoked response) is recommended. Dogs who turn out to be deaf should most likely not be bred. Fear not if your Dogo Argentino is, however, they will be able to live a perfectly normal life.
Tailored nutrition for Dogo Argentinos
When choosing food for a Dogo Argentino, there are many factors to consider: Their age, lifestyle, activity level, physiological condition, and health including potential sickness or sensitivities. Food provides energy to cover a dog’s vital functions, and a complete nutritional formula should contain an adjusted balance of nutrients to avoid any deficiency or excess in their diet, both of which could have adverse effects on the dog.
Strong Immune System
Supports the development of the puppy's healthy immune system with the inclusion of clinically proven antioxidants, including vitamins E and C.
Brain Development
Enriched with DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid that is scientifically proven to support the puppy's brain development.
Microbiome Support
Combination of prebiotics & highly digestible proteins to help promote a healthy balance of intestinal bacteria for digestive health.
The main nutritional goals for adult Dogo Argentinos are:
Bone & Joint Support
A combination of minerals and nutrients to support the extra demands on a large dog's bones and joints.
Healthy Immune System
Clinically proven antioxidants (vitamins C and E) and prebiotics for a healthy gut and immune system.
Digestive Health
Easy-to-digest, high-quality proteins, plus fibers and prebiotics to promote optimal stool quality.
After 5 years old, a Dogo Argentino will start facing the first signs of aging. A formula enriched with antioxidants will help maintain their vitality, and specific nutrients, such as chondroitin and glucosamine, will help support healthy bones and joints. Aging is also accompanied by the modification of digestive capacities and particular nutritional requirements, so food for an older Dogo Argentino should have the following characteristics:
Bone & Joint Support
A combination of mineral and nutrients to support the extra demands on a large dog's bones and joints.
Vitality Support
Supports heart, kidney and brain health in first stage of aging.
Digestive Health
Easy-to-digest, high-quality proteins, plus fibers and prebiotics to promote optimal stool quality.
Caring for your Dogo Argentino
Grooming, training and exercise tips
7/7
All about Dogo Argentinos
This is a breed who’s very protective of the family, which means children, too. The Dogo Argentino’s high level of intelligence means they’re always aware of their environment, and their affectionate and watchful nature makes them a natural around younger ones. Their size and strength, however, necessitates supervision - they could knock over little kids without meaning to.
Good question! Getting a dog with the right mix of traits that suits you and your – or your family’s – lifestyle is key to group harmony. Knowing if the Dogo Argentino breed is right can start with the choice of a good breeder if looking for a puppy, or, if you’re after an adult dog, making sure to find one at a reputable shelter or rescue, where the dog’s characteristics and behavior can be easily observed.
Suggested Breeds
Read more on this topic
Sources
- Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/;
- Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
- Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
- Royal Canin BHN Product Book
- American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/
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