Dogo Argentino

Description

The Dogo Argentino is a powerful, courageous, and athletic breed originally developed in Argentina for big-game hunting, including wild boar. Known for its strength, loyalty, and protective instincts, the Dogo Argentino is an excellent working dog as well as a devoted family companion.

Physically, the Dogo Argentino is a large, muscular dog with a strong, stocky build. It typically stands between 24 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 80 to 100 pounds. The breed has a short, white coat, often with a patch of color around the eye or ear, giving it a distinct and striking appearance. The Dogo’s strong, broad head, powerful jaws, and athletic frame are indicative of its original purpose as a hunting dog.

Temperamentally, the Dogo Argentino is known for being brave, loyal, and protective. It is deeply devoted to its family and can be affectionate and gentle with children. However, due to its guarding instincts, it is naturally suspicious of strangers and may require early socialization to ensure it behaves appropriately around unfamiliar people or animals. The Dogo Argentino is intelligent, independent, and trainable, but it requires an experienced owner who can provide firm, consistent training.

This breed needs plenty of physical and mental exercise to stay happy and healthy, as it has a high energy level. Activities such as running, hiking, or engaging in dog sports help keep the Dogo mentally stimulated and physically fit.

Overall, the Dogo Argentino is a strong, intelligent, and loyal breed that makes an excellent family companion, guard dog, and working dog when properly trained and socialized. It thrives in active households and with owners who can provide the leadership and structure it needs.

History

The Dogo Argentino is a powerful and versatile breed that originated in Argentina during the early 20th century. The breed was created by Dr. Antonio Nores Martínez, a physician and avid hunter, who envisioned a dog capable of hunting large game, such as wild boar and puma, in the rugged and diverse terrains of Argentina. Dr. Martínez sought to develop a breed that combined strength, endurance, and bravery with loyalty and a gentle temperament towards its human family.

To achieve this vision, Dr. Martínez began his breeding program in 1928, using the now-extinct Cordoba Fighting Dog as the foundation. The Cordoba dog was known for its courage and tenacity but lacked the sociability and hunting versatility that Martínez desired. He carefully crossbred the Cordoba dog with a variety of breeds, including the Great Dane, Boxer, Bull Terrier, Pointer, and Dogue de Bordeaux, among others. This meticulous process resulted in the Dogo Argentino, a breed characterized by its muscular build, white coat, and fearless nature.

The Dogo Argentino quickly proved its worth as a hunting dog, excelling in tracking, holding, and confronting dangerous prey. Its adaptability and intelligence also made it suitable for other roles, including search and rescue, police work, and as a loyal family companion. The breed gained recognition in Argentina in 1964 and gradually gained popularity in other countries due to its impressive working abilities and devoted temperament.

In 1973, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) officially recognized the Dogo Argentino, further solidifying its place in the global dog community. Today, while it remains a highly regarded hunting dog in its native Argentina, the Dogo Argentino is also cherished as a family pet and guardian in many parts of the world. Its history reflects the dedication and vision of its creator, as well as the breed's enduring qualities of courage, strength, and loyalty.

Colors

•  White