Dogo Argentino

Dogo Argentino

The Dogo Argentino, also known as the Argentinian Mastiff, is a relatively new breed. It is also Argentina's first native dog.

History:

The Dogo is one of the few breeds where we know the exact mix of breeds that went into its development. Dogos were first bred in Argentina in the 1920s by a Dr. Antonio Martinez. He designed the Dogo as a hunter of big game such as the wild boar, mountain lion, and jaguar.

The ferocity of the game combined with the difficult terrain, required a dog that could run for long distances and still have the strength and courage to vanquish its prey. In order to achieve this, he started with the Old Fighting Dog of Cordoba, a mixture itself of Bull Terrier, Bulldog, Boxer, and Spanish Mastiff. He then added the Harlequin Great Dane for height, the English Pointer for scenting ability, the Irish Wolfhound for speed, and the Great Pyrenees for bulk, weather resistance, and white color. To finish off the concoction, Dogue de Bordeaux was added to reinforce vigor and courage.

Physical characteristics:

Superficially, the Dogo Argentino resembles a Boxer or Dogue de Bordeaux without a shortened muzzle. They are not a huge breed, but are still massive. Height: 24 - 27 in (61 - 69 cm). Weight: 80 - 100 lb (36 - 45 kg). The coat is pure white with short dense hair, and sometimes more darkly pigmented skin showing through. The massive head is broad and square, and invariably the ears are cropped to small triangles. The eyes are also small and triangular. The legs and body are smoothly muscled and very powerful.

Behavior:

The Dogo Argentino is a large confident dog. It has still retained many of its original characteristics, and has a very determined personality. This is a dog for the enthusiast who is prepared to devote a lot of attention to its control and training; this is most certainly not a dog for the faint-hearted. It is wise to be very assertive towards this dog from the very beginning. It is important that this dog is kept as the most junior in the family (pack), and that it knows its place. The Dogo Argentino should be regularly exercised to keep it in top condition.