Should you get a Dogo Argentino?
The Dogo Argentino is known for its loyal, protective, and affectionate temperament. They are highly intelligent, confident, and have a strong prey drive. With proper socialization and training, they can be gentle and friendly with their family members, but they may be wary of strangers and other animals.
The Dogo Argentino aka Argentinian Mastiff
breed originated in the province of Cordoba in the country of Argentina in 1928. The breed was developed as a hunting dog by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez, who was an avid hunter and wanted a dog that could kill wild boar.
The Basis for the breed lies
in the old Fighting Dog of Cordoba. This now extinct breed was used in dog fighting and as a large game hunter. They were bred to be very aggressive which eventually led their downfall. They were often unpredictable and would turn of other dogs and people without provocation.
Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez bred
the Dogo Argentino to hunt, it was originally meant to be a big game hunter. He started crossing the Cordoba Fighting dog with other breeds such as the Boxer, Dogue De Bordeaux, Bull Terrier, Great Pyrenees, Irish Wolfhound, Great Dane and a few more-and after several generations arrived at the Dogo Argentino.
Deafness in the Dogo Argentino
According to research, 25% of the Dogo population in the United States is deaf in one or both ears. Researchers found that dogs with an eye patch (black spot) had a lower incidence of deafness and dogs with a blue eye had a higher rate. They are unsure of the reasons for this. Deafness is often connected to the white coat color in many dog breeds. Dogo’s are also prone to laryngeal paralysis, a nerve disorder that can cause breathing difficulties.
The Dogo Argentino Breed
is restricted or banned in several countries, including the Cayman Islands, Denmark, Norway, Fiji, Iceland, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Turkey. It is illegal to own this breed in the United Kingdom without lawful authority.
According to FCI Breed Standard
the Dogo can reach up to 27 inches in height and up to 100 pounds in weight. Accepted coat colors are:
“Entirely white dog. Only one black or dark-coloured patch on the
skull, but which can also be located on one ear or around one eye.”
The Dogo Argentino was first
officially recognized by the Argentine Kennel Club in 1964 and the FCI in 1973. They didn’t start appearing in the United States until the early 1970’s. Recognition by the AKC occurred in 2020.
Growing Up Dogo Argentino
Get a FREE Video of your dog HERE!
How Fast Can a Dogo Argentino Run?
The American Kennel Club Conducts Dog Racing Trials each December in Orlando, FL. called the Fast CAT Invitational. This is a 100 yard race where dogs run individually chasing a lure. The average running speed by Dogo’s is almost 26 mph. The fastest recorded speed by a Dogo was by a dog named Perfections Piedra Preciosa De La Historia at 28.77 mph!
The Dogo Argentino should be considered
as having a very high prey drive with a high energy level. They are a working dog with a muscular build and they were bred from fighting dogs to be hunters. It is in their nature. They will most likely chase any rabbit, squirrel, cat or other small animal that passes their site.
Dogo Argentino Puppy Humor!
Dogo’s Have an Average
lifespan of 9-15 years. They are a tough breed, but there are some health problems to be aware of :
Deafness
Canine Hip Dysplasia
Sunburn
The Dogo Argentino’s Temperament in a Nutshell.
Dogo’s have above average canine intelligence. They can be very territorial and protective. They tend to have an independent streak and can be stubborn. They may be aloof and wary around strangers and getting along with other same sex dogs could be problematic. They have been used for police work and military work. Training a Dogo requires a firm and consistent hand and they may not be the right breed for a casual dog owner.
In the hands of the proper owner/trainer they are one of the most loyal, loving breeds to have by your side.
Check Your Facts about the Dogo Argentino and Take a Fun Dogo Quiz!
Quick Dogo Argentino Facts Infographic
