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Dogo argentino

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog dogo argentino!

Here, you will find all the useful information about dogo argentino. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

The origins of the Argentinean Mastiff are recent, resulting from crossbreeding between the old fighting dog of Cordoba, known as the "Perro de Pelea Cordobès" and dogs strongly resembling the Bull Terrier, hence its predominantly white colour. However, other breeds were introduced in the programme of creation of this breed, such as the Great Dane, the Boxer or the Pointer, this selection was orchestrated by the founders of the Dogo, notably the Agustin brothers accompanied by Antonio Nores, establishing the first standard in 1928.

Used as a fighting dog and then as a hunting dog, it has many physical qualities, but not only that, it has an excellent sense of smell and remarkable endurance. In 1970, the first Argentinean Mastiffs were imported into Europe and the United States where the breed became very popular. Registered for the first time by the Argentinean Kennel Federation in 1964, international recognition came nine years later thanks to the F.C.I., which registered the breed definitively on 31 July 1973. The last update of the official standard in force was published on 10 November 2011.

It is one of the large dogs, belonging to category no. 2, corresponding to Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid type dogs. It is a breed that has an impressive physique, massive and powerful, yet retaining a supple and very agile movement. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, rectangular in shape, solidly built, dense and extremely muscular, with broad shoulders, a full chest and a deep chest.

His topline is clean, stocky and firm, rising slightly to the level of the loins. His neck is thick, surmounted by a massive head and a muzzle of moderate length, always square in shape. The coat is short, flat and glossy, the only colour permitted by the breed standard is pure white, with a single black or dark patch on the skull, on an ear or around an eye.

The Argentinean Mastiff is a very popular companion dog, with a gentle, balanced and reliable character, adopted by many families despite its reputation as a fighter. Playful and intelligent, he will appreciate very much to share time with his owners, in the form of playful games or walks, his advantageous physique allows him to practice many sports activities. Active and willing, he will always be up for new adventures with you, if his needs are met, he will be calm and peaceful indoors.

Its fusional temperament often pushes it to do too much, sometimes becoming slightly invasive... it is strongly advised to the future adopters to inculcate a rigorous education from the beginning, to teach it to remain alone without developing excessive anxiety. A relationship that is too fusional could quickly trigger a phenomenon of hyperattachment and make him destructive. A strict framework associated with a positive education must be put in place from the moment of adoption, so that he can blossom as much as possible.

A fearsome guardian, your house and the members of your household will be safe, not very sociable with his fellow creatures, a reinforced socialization will have to be set up very early on in order to erase his combative spirit. An inexperienced owner can hardly be suitable for this breed, nevertheless, the Argentinean Mastiff remains a formidable companion when his education is taught with firmness and accuracy. Entirely devoted to his family, he will bring you tenderness and serenity, showing courage in all circumstances.

Adult: The Argentine Mastiff will weigh approximately 100 lbs, with a height at the withers of approximately 24.4-26.7" for males and 23.6-25.6" for females.

Origins

The Dogo Argentino, also known as the Argentine Dogo, originates from Argentina. This breed was developed in the early 20th century by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez, a doctor passionate about dogs and hunting. His goal was to create a powerful, courageous, and versatile hunting dog capable of working in pack to track large game such as pumas and wild boars. To achieve this goal, Dr. Martinez crossed various breeds, including the Cordoba fighting dog, the Mastiff, the Bull Terrier, the Dogue de Bordeaux, the Pointer, and the Great Dane. This clever mix of breeds allowed the combination of strength, endurance, and hunting instinct of the Dogo Argentino. Today, this breed is recognized not only for its hunting abilities, but also for its loyalty and its role as a guard dog.

History

The Argentine Dogo has a rich and specific history, dating back to 1928 when it was officially created by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez. His goal was to develop a breed capable of hunting large game in the vast territories of Argentina. After years of rigorous selection and careful breeding, the first line of Argentine Dogos was born. The breed quickly gained popularity in Argentina for its hunting and guarding abilities. In 1973, the FCI officially recognized the Argentine Dogo, consolidating its place among official canine breeds. Since then, the popularity of the Argentine Dogo has surpassed the borders of Argentina, extending to North America and Europe, where it is appreciated for both its working abilities and its loyal and protective character.

Standard

The standard of the Argentine Dogo breed is defined by precise criteria in order to preserve the unique characteristics of this breed. According to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the Argentine Dogo must be a large, well-proportioned and muscular dog, displaying an impression of power and agility. Its head must be robust, with a slightly convex skull and a strong, straight muzzle. The ears can be naturally drooping or triangularly cropped, depending on local regulations. The eyes are medium in size, dark or hazel in color, giving an intelligent and vigilant expression. The tail is long, thick at the base and tapering towards the end. The standard also specifies that the Argentine Dogo must have a short, smooth and white coat, although a few black spots on the head are tolerated.

Physical characteristics

The Argentine Dogo is an impressive dog by its size and stature. Males generally measure between 62 and 68 cm at the withers, while females are slightly smaller, measuring between 60 and 65 cm. Their weight ranges from 40 to 45 kg for males and 35 to 40 kg for females. Their coat is short, smooth, and dense, offering some resistance to the weather. The color of the fur is uniformly white, although slight black spots around the eyes are accepted but not desirable. Their robust and muscular constitution testifies to their origin as powerful and enduring hunting dogs, capable of withstanding harsh conditions and delivering high-level performances in various activities.

Character

The Dogo Argentino is known for its loyal, courageous, and protective character. It is a dog that develops a strong attachment to its family, showing great loyalty and a natural protective instinct. Sociable and affectionate with family members, it can be reserved or even suspicious towards strangers, making it an excellent guard dog. Despite its imposing appearance, the Dogo Argentino is generally patient and gentle with children, although interactions between dogs and young children should always be supervised. Due to its intelligence and eagerness to please, it responds well to firm but positive training, requiring proper socialization and training from a young age to channel its energy and protective instinct.

Life expectancy

The average lifespan of the Dogo Argentino is typically 10 to 12 years, although some individuals can live longer with proper care. Various factors, such as genetics, diet, exercise, and regular veterinary care, influence their longevity. Well-maintained Dogo Argentinos, with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups, tend to have a long and healthy life. However, specific health issues related to the breed, such as hip dysplasia and certain heart diseases, can affect their lifespan, highlighting the importance of choosing responsible breeders who conduct rigorous health tests on their breeding dogs.

Exercise and activity needs

The Dogo Argentino is an energetic and active breed, requiring a substantial amount of daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. On average, a Dogo Argentino needs 1 to 2 hours of exercise per day, including walks, interactive play, and intense physical activities such as running or hiking. Due to its hunting dog roots, it enjoys activities that stimulate its natural instinct, such as tracking games or agility exercises. Lack of exercise can lead to destructive behaviors or excessive weight gain, which is why it is essential to provide regular opportunities for it to expend energy. A well-exercised Dogo Argentino is a more balanced, happy dog and better suited to family life.

Recommended diet

The diet of an Argentine Dogo must be balanced and of high quality to meet its energy and nutritional needs. It is recommended to provide him with food rich in proteins and fats, tailored to his level of activity. Premium kibbles for large active breeds are often a good choice, possibly supplemented with fresh foods such as meat, vegetables and fruits. The monthly cost of feeding an Argentine Dogo can vary between 50 and 100 euros, depending on the quality of the chosen food and the specific needs of the dog. It is important to monitor his weight and regularly consult a veterinarian to adjust his diet based on his growth, level of activity and overall health.

Training and obedience

The Dogo Argentino requires firm but kind training, with early socialization and ongoing education. Due to its intelligence and desire to please, it responds well to positive training methods based on rewards. It is crucial to start socializing from a young age, exposing it to various people, environments, and situations to avoid distrust or aggression towards strangers. Obedience classes are strongly recommended to establish a solid foundation of behavior and strengthen the bond between the dog and its owner. The Dogo Argentino may sometimes display independent nature, requiring patience and consistency in training. Proper education helps to make it a loyal, well-balanced, and reliable companion.

Behavior with children

The Dogo Argentino, when well socialized and properly trained, can be an excellent companion for children. Its protective and loyal nature often leads it to watch over the youngest family members. However, due to its imposing size and energy, it is essential to supervise interactions between the dog and children to avoid any unintentional accidents. The Dogo Argentino can be very patient and gentle with children, but it must learn to interact properly with them from a young age. Children must also be educated on how to approach and treat a dog of this size, respecting its boundaries and avoiding rough play. Proper socialization and education ensure a harmonious and safe cohabitation between the Dogo Argentino and children.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Dogo Argentino can live in harmony with other pets, but it largely depends on its socialization and training. Due to its developed hunting instinct, it may have a natural tendency to chase small animals. However, if socialized from a young age with other dogs and animals, it can learn to peacefully coexist. Supervision is essential during the initial interactions, and it is important to teach basic commands to control its behavior. With other dogs, the Dogo Argentino may show some dominance, so it is crucial to socialize it properly and get it used to positively interacting with its peers. Good socialization and consistent guidance can help develop a harmonious relationship with other pets.

Grooming needs

The Dogo Argentino has relatively modest grooming needs due to its short and smooth coat. A weekly brushing is usually enough to maintain the cleanliness of its coat and reduce shedding. During shedding periods, more frequent brushing may be necessary to remove dead hair. An occasional bath, every three months or in case of noticeable dirt, is sufficient to keep its skin and coat healthy. It is also important to regularly check its ears to prevent infections, brush its teeth for good oral hygiene, and trim its nails to prevent mobility problems. The Dogo Argentino does not have excessive grooming needs, making it a relatively easy breed to maintain.

Health

The Dogo Argentino is generally a robust and healthy breed, but like all dogs, it can be prone to certain health problems. The most common conditions in this breed include hip dysplasia, heart disease, and skin issues such as allergies. Deafness is also a common genetic problem in the Dogo Argentino, with a notable percentage of dogs affected by unilateral or bilateral deafness. It is essential to choose a responsible breeder who conducts health tests on their breeding dogs to minimize these risks. Regular visits to the veterinarian, a balanced diet, and adequate exercise help maintain the Dogo Argentino healthy. In case of any signs of discomfort or changes in behavior, prompt veterinary consultation is recommended.

Average price

The price of an Argentine Dogo varies considerably depending on the breeder, lineage, and region. In France, the average cost for an Argentine Dogo puppy is generally between 1,000 and 2,000 euros. This price can increase for puppies from champion lines or with parents who have competition titles. Additional costs include initial health expenses, vaccinations, sterilization or neutering, as well as necessary accessories (collars, leashes, beds, etc.). It is important to be wary of prices that are too low, often associated with uncertified breeders or inappropriate breeding conditions. Investing in a quality puppy from a reputable breeder generally ensures a healthier and well-socialized dog.

Expenses

The average monthly expenses for an Argentine Dogo can vary between 100 and 150 euros. This amount includes the costs of food, regular veterinary care, grooming products, and necessary accessories. Quality food is a significant part of these expenses, with a monthly cost estimated between 50 and 100 euros, depending on the chosen type of food. Veterinary care, including vaccinations, parasite treatments, and routine check-ups, represent another significant portion of the budget. Additional fees may be added for training and obedience classes, as well as toys and exercise equipment. Taking these expenses into account before adopting an Argentine Dogo is essential to ensure their long-term well-being.

Name ideas

Choosing a name for an Argentine Dogo can reflect its personality and imposing appearance. Here are some name suggestions: Atlas, Blanco, Titan, Nieve, Rocky, Duke, Maya, Luna, Zeus, Thor, Bella, Max, Ghost, Sasha, Zorro, Tango, Hera, Apollo, Shadow, Blanca. These names evoke both the strength, majesty, and unique nature of the Argentine Dogo. When selecting a name, it is important to choose a short and easy to pronounce name so that the dog can quickly recognize it. A good name should also suit your dog's individual personality and be enjoyable to use daily.

Legislation and regulation

In France, the Dogue Argentin is classified in category 2 dogs, due to its perceived potential danger. This implies several obligations for owners, including obtaining a holding permit, a declaration to the town hall, as well as a specific civil liability insurance. The dog must be kept on a leash and muzzled in public places. Owners must also undergo specific training and present a behavioral assessment of their dog at certain stages of its life. These regulations aim to ensure public safety and promote responsible ownership of these powerful dogs. Outside of France, laws vary, and it is crucial to inquire about local legislation before adopting a Dogue Argentin.

Official recognition

The Dogo Argentino is recognized by several international cynological organizations, reflecting its official status as a breed and its specific characteristics. Among these organizations is the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which recognized the breed in 1973. In the United States, the American Kennel Club (AKC) included the Dogo Argentino in its Foundation Stock Service program in 1997, and it was fully recognized in 2020. The Kennel Club in the United Kingdom and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) also recognize this breed. In France, the Dogo Argentino is registered in the Livre des Origines Français (LOF). This recognition by various organizations reflects the increasing acceptance and popularity of the Dogo Argentino worldwide.

Pedigrees

Pedigrees of the Dogo Argentino can be obtained from various recognized breed clubs, which ensure the preservation and improvement of the breed standards. In France, the Club du Dogue Argentin (CDA) is the main organization responsible for managing pedigrees and organizing breed events. In the United States, the Dogo Argentino Club of America (DACA) plays a similar role, while in the UK, the Dogo Argentino Club UK promotes and protects the breed. Other countries have their own clubs and associations, such as the Club Argentino de Criadores de Dogo Argentino in Argentina. These clubs provide information on bloodlines, reputable breeders, and breed events, making it easier to acquire quality, well-bred dogs.

Destination and usage

The Dogo Argentino is mainly used as a hunting dog, especially for big game such as wild boar and puma. Its strength, endurance, and courage make it an excellent hunting companion capable of working in difficult conditions. In addition to hunting, the Dogo Argentino is also appreciated as a guard dog due to its protective instinct and loyalty towards its family. Its versatility also allows its use in law enforcement and security services. As a pet, the Dogo Argentino stands out for its affectionate and devoted character, although it requires proper socialization and training to harmoniously integrate into a family environment.

Prohibitions

In some countries, the Dogo Argentino faces restrictions or bans due to its perception as a potentially dangerous breed. For example, in the United Kingdom, the Dogo Argentino is banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act of 1991. This legislation prohibits the ownership, breeding, sale, and transfer of this breed. Similar restrictions are in place in Australia and New Zealand, limiting the importation and ownership of Dogo Argentinos. These bans are often motivated by concerns about public safety and incidents involving large and powerful dogs. Potential owners should research local regulations before adopting a Dogo Argentino to ensure compliance with the law.

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