The Dogo Argentino is one of the most popular dogs in the Americas. It is a molossoid bulldog type. It is distinguished by its large size, white fur and powerful appearance. This is without a doubt one of the most impressive dogs that exist.
Males usually reach 60 to 68 cm in height, while females measure more than 60 to 65 cm. On the other hand, the average weight is about 40 to 45 kg in males and 40 to 43 kg in females.
Origin of the Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is the only Argentine breed not to have disappeared. It was developed in the Argentine province of Córdoba in the 1920s by Dr. Antonio Nores Martínez, looking for an exceptionally strong and resistant dog, who was a real fighter. At that time, dog fighting was very common in Argentine fields and elsewhere in the world. In Cordoba, the “fighting dogs of Cordoba” were used for these activities. Nores Martínez used these dogs as parents of the Dogo Argentino, but he sought more stability of character and better control of aggression.
When dogfights began to be frowned upon by society, Nores Martínez led the Dogo Argentino to the climb and big game. The result was as expected and the Dogo Argentino became a hunter of wild boars, pumas, peccaries and foxes.
To reach the standard we know today, many other breeds of dogs have been crossed. In addition to the Cordovan fighting dogs, the Dogo Argentino has ancestors such as the bull terrier, the English bulldog, the Great Dane, the Pyrenean mastiff, the boxer, the Spanish mastiff, the mastiff, the Irish wolfhound and pointer. The breed was officially recognized by the Argentine Cynological Federation in 1964 and by the International Cynological Federation (FCI) in 1973.
Character of the Dogo Argentino
Despite its past as a fighting dog and a hunting dog, the Dogo Argentino is another proof that the education we offer our dog will greatly contribute to giving a proper character to family life. The Dogo Argentino is an affectionate and loyal dog, certainly protective but tolerant towards other dogs and other pets if he is offered the appropriate socialization.
It is a smart and dedicated dog, very sensitive, who will create a very strong bond with those who consider its family. It’s perfect for those who have older children at home because they like to play and offer loving kisses, which surprises and captivates many people. It is very patient and kind, very reliable if it had the opportunity to educate it from its young age.
However, the Dogo Argentino is not a suitable dog for everyone. its great intelligence drives it to be bored with a certain ease. That’s why it needs an experienced person in responsible pet ownership, education and training and the dog’s correct motivation to offer it new experiences and positive activities. It also needs a dynamic family that understands the needs of this dog and adapts to a proactive lifestyle.
Finally, we will add that it is very important to monitor all the interactions that a Dogo Argentino adopts in its adult stage. As with any dog, abuse and lack of socialization can harm this noble race by making it nervous, shy or responsive, depending on the case. This is a recommendation we would make with any breed, regardless of its morphology, but in this case, it is more important because of the demonstrated physical ability and strength.
Dogo Argentino Health
The Dogo Argentino is a pretty healthy breed. Nevertheless, it will be useful to visit the veterinarian every 6 months and to make sure that it does not suffer from any problems. We will also follow certain routines such as the dog vaccination schedule and deworming (external and internal). These habits will help prevent certain contagious diseases and the presence of parasites in dogs. Let’s not forget that castration is highly recommended. The most common diseases of the Argentine bulldog are:
In addition to all that is mentioned above, we must offer this dog a quality diet and a proper hygienic routine.
The life expectancy of the Dogo Argentino is greater than 10 or 12 years, but this figure can be exceeded if you take care of it properly
The Dogo Argentino will need 2 to 3 walks a day, during which it will be able to sniff, investigate and interact with other animals. It will also be helpful to encourage it to moderate exercise, through games and toys or various activities such as performing a circuit of agility. The Dogo Argentino will benefit from the mental stimulation that this type of activity will give.
It is strongly recommended to provide enough space for living, such as a house with a garden, but it can perfectly adapt to an urban lifestyle if appropriate physical and mental activity is provided. In the house, the Dogo Argentino is usually a calm dog.
Grooming of the Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino does not need excessive care to be happy, but it is important to value some. To begin, we will talk about the care of its coat, which will require a weekly brushing to eliminate dead hair. However, we must keep in mind that the Dogo Argentino loses a lot of hair, so it will be necessary to clean the house with a certain regularity. It should be washed every month or every month and a half, or when it is really dirty. It may be appropriate to go to a groomer or take a bath outside.
Remember that its dermis is very sensitive, so it is advisable not to expose it to the sun and to pay attention to the drops in temperature. The Dogo Argentino does not tolerate the cold well.
Originally published at https://petsfeed.co on December 6, 2019.
