Dogo Argentino: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

The Dogo Argentino is a large and imposing working dog breed native to Argentina that has a short white coat and a thick, muscular build. Bred as a big game hunter, the Dogo is athletic, courageous, and intelligent. It requires lots of exercise every day. It’s also a watchful guardian but tends to be very affectionate with its family. Still, this dog breed is typically not ideal for first-time dog owners, as it requires careful and consistent training and socialization. 

Characteristics of the Dogo Argentino

The Dogo Argentino tends to have a loving and loyal temperament with its family, but it can be wary of strangers. The high prey drive part of its personality often makes it a poor match for other household pets, especially smaller animals. Overall, this is a smart and athletic dog breed that needs a lot of daily activity.

History of the Dogo Argentino

The Dogo Argentino can trace its roots back to Argentina in 1928. A doctor named Antonio Nores Martinez wanted to create a dog that was suitable for big game hunting, as well as a good watchdog and family companion.

To create the Dogo, Martinez crossed the now-extinct Cordoba fighting dog with mastiffs, bulldogs, bull terriers, and boxers. Other breeds that contributed their genes were the Great Dane, Irish wolfhound, and English pointer.

The breed arrived in the United States in the 1970s and is still relatively rare. The American Kennel Club first recognized it in 2020.

Dogo Argentino Care

Due to their high energy, Dogos need vigorous exercise every day. They also should receive consistent training and socialization starting in puppyhood. Grooming is fairly straightforward for these dogs, though they do require sun protection.

Exercise

The Dogo Argentino needs a minimum of 60 minutes of daily exercise. Brisk walks are good, but to really tire out your Dogo, allow it to run freely in a secure area. Try a spirited game of fetch or dog sports, such as agility, obedience, or weight pull. Not only will this challenge the Dogo physically, but it also will allow your dog to burn some mental energy. Always keep your dog on leash when you're out and about, as the high prey drive of Dogos can cause them to take off quickly if they're not restrained.

Grooming

The Dogo Argentino’s smooth, short coat sheds a moderate amount. It also doesn't typically have much of a doggie odor. Brush weekly with a soft bristle brush or rubber curry brush to remove loose hair and distribute oils. The occasional bath when the dog becomes dirty is usually all that’s necessary.

Check your dog's ears at least weekly for any dirt, debris, redness, or other abnormalities. Your vet can show you how to properly clean the ears. Also, check your dog's nails roughly once a month to see whether they need a trim. And aim to brush its teeth daily.

Furthermore, like other dogs with short, white fur, the Dogo Argentino is susceptible to sunburn. Be mindful of how much time your dog spends in direct sunlight, and discuss sun protection with your vet.

Training

Aim to start training and socialization as young as possible with a Dogo Argentino. These dogs can be difficult to manage if they are ill-mannered, big, and strong adults. 

This breed needs a self-assured owner who is consistent about using positive training methods. Harsh corrections can hinder learning. Enroll in a puppy obedience class as soon as your dog is old enough. And expose it to different people, other dogs, and various situations to build its comfort and confidence. The more a Dogo has positive experiences with new people and dogs, the likelier it will be that the Dogo is friendly with them rather than defensive.

Common Health Problems

The Dogo Argentino is typically a very healthy breed. However, it is still prone to some health issues, including:

• Deafness
• Sunburn

Diet and Nutrition

Always make sure fresh water is available for your dog, and provide a nutritionally balanced canine diet. Like other large breeds, the Dogo Argentino can benefit from eating a large-breed puppy formula. This will provide the proper nutrition to promote slow, steady growth and help prevent joint issues.

Most owners feed two measured meals per day. Discuss the type of diet and how much your dog needs to eat with your veterinarian, as this can vary by age, size, activity level, and other factors. Also, be mindful about treats and other extra food to prevent your dog from becoming overweight.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Dogo Argentino

The Dogo Argentino is relatively rare in North America. But it's still worth checking area shelters and rescue groups for one in need of a home. If you're looking for a reputable breeder puppy, expect to pay around $2,000 to $5,000, though this can vary widely depending on bloodline and other factors. For further information, check out:

• Dogo Argentino Club of America
• Dogo Argentino Rescue
  

Dogo Argentino Characteristics

More Dog Breeds and Further Research

If you’re considering a Dogo Argentino, be sure to do ample research first to make sure it will fit into your lifestyle. Talk to veterinarians, Dogo Argentino owners, reputable breeders, and rescue groups. Try to meet some dogs in person if possible.

If you’re interested in similar breeds, check out:

• American bulldog
• American pit bull terrier
• Doberman pinscher

There’s a whole world of potential dog breeds out there—with a little research, you can find the right one to bring home!