Other names/Nicknames:
- Argentinean Mastiff
Country/Date of origin:
- Argentina
- 1920′s
Height:
- 24 to 27 inches
Weight:
- 80 to 100 pounds
Personality:
- A dog deliberately bred to be fierce.
- Loyal and loving to owner.
- Can be aggressive toward people it does not know, especially if it thinks they are trespassing on its property.
- Bold and brave, seemingly impervious to pain.
History:
A recent South American creation, the Dogo Argentino was bred to hunt big cats in its homeland. They have also proved effective in guarding cattle against poachers, both the two- and four-legged variety. It is descended from an old fighting dog which originated in Spain. Father of the breed, Dr. Antonio Martinez, reportedly added some Boxer blood to increase the dog’s tractability. The Dogo’s notoriously fierce temperament has put it on the list of banned dogs in Britain. It is, however, legal to own them in the United States and they are becoming popular for guard work and probably illegal dog fighting.
Body Type:
- Looks like an overgrown Pit Bull Terrier.
- Ears are cut to short, erect triangles with sharply pointed tips.
- Tail is thick and tapered. It is moderately long and not altered.
Coat:
- Short, dense and harsh to the touch. Lies close to the skin.
- Only color allowed is white.
- Pink skin shows through near the eyes and nose.
- Low grooming requirements.
Health and Wellness:
- Hip dysplasia.
- Skin allergies and irritations.
What you should know:
- This is just too much dog for the average person.
- Bold, aggressive, and dominant, the Dogo Argentino will walk all over an owner if given the chance.
- Professional obedience lessons are a must.
- Many insurance companies will not provide you with liability coverage if you own a Dogo Argentino.
- Check with your insurance agent to see if you will be covered before you purchase a puppy.
- Dogos should be protected from dognappers who would steal them for use in pit fights.
