The Dogo Argentino, also known as the Argentine Mastiff, has been bred since 1928. They are an AKC-recognized dog breed and are known for their bravery, loyalty, and affectionate personality. The original breeder, Antonio Nores Martinez, bred this dog for big game hunting: specifically wild boar. Though it’s a purebred dog today, originally it began as a cross between Cordoba Fighting Dogs and an array of other dogs – including the Great Dane.
The Dogo Argentino is trained for search and rescue, assisting police, acting as a service dog, and military work. They have an aptitude for obedience training and have become well-known for being protective. They do well with other dogs, as well as children. However, they should be supervised for the first few times of meeting a new or unfamiliar pet or child. They are comfortable in group settings, and are remarkable social butterflies, but will need extensive socialization throughout their life. Because aggression was specifically bred out of the Dogo Argentino, attacks are extremely rare.
This pup thrives on being a part of a close, growing family and does best in rural areas where there is plenty of room to romp around. They can be perfectly happy in a smaller home, or even an apartment, but will need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to keep boredom at bay. This breed is always happy to be around their owner. Try not to leave them home alone for long periods of time, and bring them with you whenever able. This will help cut down on boredom and possible destructive behavior.
Dogos are generally a healthy breed as long as they are kept on a reliable, nourishing diet and given plenty of exercise. These dogs are incredibly strong and will need an owner that is not afraid of roughhousing or playing. You should also keep up-to-date with vet checks. Their most prevalent possible issue is pigment-related deafness. By having regular vet visits, you will be able to combat this well into your dog’s golden years.
This dog breed is not prone to barking at all because it has been trained to remain quiet while hunting. The Dogo Argentino responds well to training – but they tend not to be a good fit for first-time owners due to their size and strength. Even if you have experience training large dogs, we still suggest you work with a trainer.
Dogo Argentinos will only need to be brushed once a week, and bathed after a day on hiking trails or running around in the mud.
This dog breed ranges from somewhat to very active and will need plenty of exercise throughout its lifetime. Trips to the dog park every other day, as well as an hour walk once a day, will keep your dog calm and healthy. You should also take him hiking or running at least once a week. Then they will be in peak physical condition, and relaxed, even when you have to head to work.
A Dogo Argentino usually stands between 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 80 to 100 pounds.
This dog breed generally lives 9 to 15 years.
When the Dogo Argentino was used as a big game hunting dog in Argentina, it was primarily used to hunt wild boar and mountain lions!
