Dogo Argentino: Is this powerful, big game hunter the right dog for you?

The Dogo Argentino is a large, powerful dog with a pure white coat.

Although the breed is a natural hunting dog, they’re also affectionate and playful.

The combination of these characteristics makes the dog an excellent choice for families looking for a loyal and loving companion.

Dogo Argentino history

The Dogo Argentino breed was first developed in 1928 by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez. The breed emerged initially in Argentina and got its name from that country. Martinez’s goal was to create a dog breed that could hunt big game effectively.

The Dogo Argentino is the result of breeding between the Cordoba Fighting Dog and bull terriers.

Other large dog breeds such as Great Danes and Spanish Mastiffs contribute to the Dogo Argentino gene pool. Martinez’s experiment created a healthy dog with unique characteristics.

Big game hunter

The Dogo Argentino is a versatile breed that excels at tasks from tracking and hunting big game to serving as a police or guard dog.

Thanks to its robust and powerful build, the breed makes an ideal candidate for demanding jobs that require strength, endurance, and intelligence.

Dogo Argentino breed standard

Size

Dogo Argentinos are stocky and muscular. They are naturally large dogs, with males an average of 24 to 27 inches tall, while females average 24 to 26 inches in height.

The dogs typically weigh between 70 and 100 pounds and are usually larger and taller than other breeds.

This breed has a muscular body with an erect neck and a medium-sized head. The dogs have deep, broad chests and thick, saber-shaped tails. 

The dog’s almond-shaped eyes are sharp but gentle. Their ears are cropped and remain erect. The dogs have strong jaws, ideal for gripping prey.

Coat

The dogs have beautiful, all-white coats. The texture is smooth and uniform, and generally, the hair is one solid color. However, some Dogos may have a unique patch of color around their eyes.

This breed’s coat grows denser in colder environments but becomes sparse and thin in tropical climates. So the dog can adapt to your climate.

Temperament

Dogo Argentinos are not naturally aggressive, despite their hunting pedigree. They are gentle and loving dogs that make great pets.

The dogs require at least 60 minutes of exercise daily, so be prepared to walk or run with your pup.

These dogs prefer to be the only dog in the household but can get along well with other female dogs.

Smaller pets may not fare as well since Dogos have a strong prey drive.

Training needs

Dogo puppies need training from the time they are young to become great dogs. This breed is rare and challenging, so not everyone can provide the special care they require. 

Dogo Argentinos respond best to positive reinforcement rather than forceful behavior.

Training can be tricky because the dogs have short attention spans.

Grooming

The Dogo Argentino keeps its owners on their toes. In addition to exercise and training, even their white fur requires special care.

The dogs shed little and have less body odor than other breeds, so weekly brushing will leave the coat soft and shiny. 

But, beware, that short white coat provides little protection from the sun’s rays, so the dogs can easily suffer sunburns. So, keep your dog out of the sun at the hottest times of the day and use sunscreen. 

Final thoughts on the Dogo Argentino

Dogo Argentinos make loyal, protective pets.

These large dogs will guard their owners with equal strength and affection.

To get the best pet, look for a certified breeder.