Dogo Argentino - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Large

Height: 61 - 69 cm (24 - 27 inches)

Weight: 36 - 45 kg (80 - 100 lb)

Life Span: 11 years

Grooming: Easy

Exercise: Fairly demanding

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Loyal & protective

Country of Origin: Argentina

AKC Group: Not registered

Other Names: Argentine Dogo, Argentinian Mastiff

Temperament:

The Dogo Argentino is loyal, playful, intelligent, protective and courageous. Dogo Argentinos need dominant handlers that can provide correct training and early socialization. This breed is usually aggressive towards other dogs, especially towards dogs of the same sex or larger in size. They can get along with household pets, provided they are socialized with them from puppyhood. The Dogo Argentino is playful with children and highly trainable. Their natural protective instincts make them good watchdogs and guard dogs. The Dogo Argentino is not suitable breed for first time dog owners and needs someone who is firm, consistent, yet still loving.

Grooming:

Dogo Argentinos are average shedders and don't require much grooming. Their fast-growing nails need to be clipped frequently and an advantage with these dogs is that they don't tend to have a dog smell.

Exercise:

These active dogs need daily exercise and should have access to at least a medium sized backyard. Dogo Argentinos are very sociable and are happiest when they are included in family activities.

History:

Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez, an Argentine physician developed the Dogo Argentino. He began his systematic breeding in 1928 and crossed the local breed known as the Old Fighting Dog of Cordoba, with Bulldogs, Bull Terriers and Mastiffs. This new breed had strong guarding instincts and was able to hunt large game with great stamina. The Dogo Argentino is one of the few breeds developed in South America.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Muscular, graceful, powerful and athletic.

Color: White. A small dark marking is allowed on the head.

Coat: Short, glossy and smooth. The hair may be slightly thicker on the neck and throat.

Tail: Set high, tapered and may be carried slightly above the backline when active.

Ears: Set high and either cropped or natural. Natural ears are drop, short, thick, broad at the base and tapering to a rounded tip. They can be semi-erect when alert. Cropped ears are triangular, short and erect.

Body: The length of body is just slightly longer than tall and the chest is broad and deep. The ribs are well-sprung and extend well back. The back is strong and firm and the belly is moderately tucked up.

Additional Comments:

The Dogo Argentino is banned in some countries including Australia and Great Britain, due to its temperament. All dogs are individuals and some are more dominant or aggressive than others. Potential owners of this breed should find out the family history of their puppy, to ensure it comes from lines with well-mannered temperaments.

Today, the Dogo Argentino is still used as a hunting dog, a guardian of property, a family companion, and an all-around working dog.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/dogo_argentino/