Let's talk Dogo Argentino dogs
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 |
|
Warm weather? |  |
| Shedding level | 
|
Suited to apartment living? |  |
| Energy level (high, low, medium) *: | High | Family pet? * |
|
| Compatibility with other pets | |
Can stay alone?* |
|
* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed’s specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy, healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socialising your pet as well as covering their basic welfare, social and behavioural needs.
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.
Male
62 - 68 cm
Height
40 - 45 kg
Weight
Female
60 - 65 cm
Height
40 - 43 kg
Weight
| Baby age: | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age: | 2 to 15 months |
| Adult age: | 15 monts to 5 years |
| Mature age: | 5 to 8 years |
| Senior age: | From 8 years |
1/7
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 socialisation 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.
2/7
2 facts about Dogo Argentino dogs
1. White out
Few canines come in only one colour but the Dogo Argentino is one. Their short, trim coat comes in a single hue: White, which makes them instantly recognisable. They often have a black patch or spotting over one of their eyes, the only colour 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.
3/7
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.
4/7
From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Dogo Argentino dogs
1. Ears
Ears set high and drooping.
2. Head
Broad head with square shape, slightly domed.
3. Body
Very powerful, extremely muscular body.
4. Tail
Long tail, thick at base, tapering to a point.
5. Coat
Short, smooth, coarse coat, characteristically all-white.
5/7
Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Dogo Argentino
6/7
Caring for your Dogo Argentino
Grooming, training and exercise tips
Owners of the Dogo Argentino will be happy to know that an easy grooming routine is in their future. The breed’s coarse, short coat is simple to brush, and doing so once a week should be plenty to maintain their handsome looks. Keeping their nails trimmed and their ears clean of dirt and debris should be part of any regular routine. When it comes to exercising your Dogo Argentino, the backyard is the best starting point, or a larger enclosed space where they can run free and you can keep your eye on them. This dog was raised to be a sporting breed so is likely to run off if not observed closely. Firm training is best for the Dogo Argentino as they definitely have a mind of their own. They can be stubborn at times but aim to please if they know who is in charge. The breed also needs mental stimulation in order to thrive. Start early and keep them occupied and you will have one delighted dog on your hands.7/7
All about Dogo Argentino dogs
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 behaviour can be easily observed.
translations.feature.breeds.otherbreeds
Read more on this topic
How your dog's nutrition needs change with age
How to adopt a dog
Things to consider before getting a dog
Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/