Dogo Argentino Breed Guide: History, Temperament & Training Tips
History and Background
The Dogo Argentino, also known as the Argentine Mastiff, is a dog breed developed in Argentina in the 1920s. The brothers Dr. Antonio and Norberto Martínez, geneticists and avid hunters, sought to create an ideal hunting dog capable of taking on large game such as wild boar, pumas, and jaguars. To this end, they crossed ten different breeds, among them the Cordoba Fighting Dog, Spanish Mastiff, Great Dane, English Bulldog, Bull Terrier, English Pointer, Dogue de Bordeaux, Pyrenean Mountain Dog, Irish Wolfhound, and Boxer. The result was a strong, brave dog with impressive hunting abilities.
Breed Details
How easygoing is the Dogo Argentino with training?
Shedding
Life Expectancy
Pet-Friendly
Family-Friendly
Breed Size
Breed Size
Family-Friendly
Pet-Friendly
Easygoing with Training
Shedding
Life Expectancy
More Breed Details
Life Expectancy
Life Expectancy
10–12 years
Male Weight
Male Weight
Males 40–45 kg
Female Weight
Female Weight
Females 35–40 kg
Male Height
Male Height
Males 60–68 cm
Female Height
Female Height
Females 60–65 cm
Weather Sensitivity
Weather Sensitivity
Sensitive to the sun due to its light coat; it is recommended to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun
Energy Level
Energy Level
High
Coat Characteristics
Coat Characteristics
Short, smooth, white coat. A single black patch or a brindle patch sometimes appears
Hereditary Diseases
Hereditary Diseases
A tendency toward hearing problems, including deafness in one or both ears. Also, sensitivity to the sun due to its light, short coat, and hip dysplasia
The Breed's Purpose Today
Today, the Dogo Argentino serves as a hunting dog for large game, a guard and protection dog, and even as a police dog in Argentina. In addition, it can be a loyal and loving family dog, provided it has undergone appropriate training.
Tips for Training and Educating the Breed
- Early socialization: It is important to expose the Dogo Argentino to a variety of people, animals, and environments from a young age in order to prevent aggressiveness and territoriality.
- Consistent, authoritative training: The breed requires assertive and authoritative owners, with the ability to lead and set clear boundaries.
- Physical activity: The Dogo Argentino needs daily, challenging physical activity to maintain its physical and mental health.
- Coat care: Weekly brushing is sufficient to maintain its short, smooth coat.
The Dogo Argentino is a large, strong, and loyal dog, suited to experienced owners seeking a brave and devoted companion. With proper training, early socialization, and sufficient physical activity, it can be a wonderful addition to a family or a skilled working dog.
