Dogo Argentino – characteristics of the breed, care and maintenance, what to feed, owner reviews, photos of the dog

Description and characteristics of the Dogo Argentino breed

Dogo Argentino is a unique breed of hunting dog

Strong muscular limbs, a massive head, a proud curve of the croup, combined with a snow-white color are characteristic features that make it impossible to confuse it with anyone else. The Dogo Argentino or Mastiff Argentino is today the first and only officially recognized breed bred in Argentina.

Historical information

Dogo Argentino is the result of 25 years of work by a breeder who crossed more than 7 breeds

Inbreeding work began as early as the 1930s, when brothers Antonio Nores and Agustin Martinez decided to develop a versatile dog for hunting big game and protecting the family. The father of the boys was a famous surgeon and well versed in genetics, which played a role in the success of the enterprise.

The fact is that Argentina is a country where hunting is used at all levels of the social structure of society. For the rich, this occupation is national entertainment, and for the poor, it is a means of subsistence. However, the problem was that hunting dogs of European origin were not up to the task. The hot climate, along with impassable areas of prairie and forest thickets, greatly depleted the animals.

The goal of the breeders was to develop a breed that would have excellent physical and working qualities, endurance, a noticeable exterior, a subtle instinct, a balanced psyche without malice towards a person. Such a dog should have easily endured the hardships of a hot climate.

To consolidate the hunting qualities, along with obedience, reduced aggressiveness and considerable agility, breeders used many breeds. Crossing involved:

• fighting dog of Cordoba (taken as a basis);
• spanish mastiff;
• Great Dane, whose blood was grafted to make the dog tall;
• the Irish wolfhound, who gave the breed speed and obedience;
• a large Pyrenean dog whose blood brought stamina and white color;
• boxer, taken to give fearlessness and vigor;
• dogue de Bordeaux, used to consolidate power and strength;
• An English Pointer who was brought in to give the breed an improved sense of smell.

As a result of their work, the Martinez managed to instill all the best qualities of their ancestors in the Dogo Argentino. The dog proved to be excellent, being able to pursue the enemy at high speed for a long time, and then attack him without a bit of fatigue.

The presentation of the breed took place in Buenos Aires on May 21, 1964, having received recognition from the Cynological Federation of Argentina. At the international level, the Dogo Argentino standard was approved by the FCI only in 1973.

FCI standard

The Dogo Argentino is a strong, muscular dog with excellent proportions.

Dogo Argentino is distinguished by a strong constitution with a powerful skeleton, proportionality, and well-developed muscles. The growth at the withers of the female is 60–65 cm, the male is 60–68 cm. The weight varies from 40–45 kg, respectively. The following standards are defined for the breed:

1. The shape of the skull is rounded with a smoothed occipital protuberance. The parietal muscles stand out quite well.
2. The head is massive, strong, the frontal part is noticeably expanded.
3. The muzzle is square, equal to the length of the skull.
4. The jaws of the dog are strong, wide with well-developed chewing muscles. The bite may be straight or scissor.
5. The eyes are of medium size, almond-shaped with brown or hazel color. Set a little obliquely and wide. The eyelids are tight. The edging can be either black or light.
6. Ears with a wide base, set high. Small colored spots are allowed.
7. The cheekbones are relatively flat, underlined, without folds.
8. The lips are thin, have black pigmentation. The top fits snugly against the bottom.
9. The neck is muscular and powerful, of medium length with a beautiful nape line. It has two symmetrical folds under the throat.
10. Chest well open, moderately long, deep. The musculature is embossed, the falcon protrudes forward beyond the line of the humeroscapular joints.
11. The nose is large, has a black color and well-opened nostrils. Wide, slightly raised above the bridge of the nose.
12. The belly of the Dogo Argentino is slightly tucked up, the groins are short.
13. The back is moderately wide, strong, short. The topline has a smooth transition to the croup.
14. The forelimbs are straight, strong with relief muscles. The pastern is short, strong, almost vertical. The shoulder angle is 90°.
15. The hind limbs are slightly set aside for the line of the ischial tuberosities. Metatarsus short, powerful, sheer. The muscles of the limbs are dry, embossed. The hocks are slightly lowered.

Disqualifying vices of the Dogo Argentino:

• height less than 60 cm at the withers;
• depigmentation of the nose (flesh color, “dudley” effect, etc.);
• odd-eyed, blue or amber color;
• cryptorchidism (undescended testicles in a male);
• deafness;
• not pure white coat color;
• excessively wide or narrow set of limbs;
• narrow, weak, sagging or humped back;
• hound ears;
• distortion of the lower jaw, as well as overshot, undershot;
• to laugh;
• loose muscles;
• too pointed, upturned or short muzzle;
• a short upper lip that does not cover the teeth when the mouth is closed;
• narrow skull;
• sunken, narrow or barrel-shaped chest;
• clubfoot;
• short or long, low set neck.

Coat type and colors

The heritage of the breed is the snow-white color of the coat.

According to the standard, the Dogo Argentino can have an exclusively white coat color. A dark shade is allowed around the eyes, provided that the edging does not cover more than 10% of the entire head. However, if two puppies are compared at the competition, then preference will be given to the lighter one.

The integument itself is short, straight, rather hard and close to the skin. The undercoat is missing. The exception is the waviness or long hair of the pet.

The nature and working qualities of the Argentine dogo

Dogo Argentino is a born big game hunter

This is a hardy, active and very strong dog. The character of the pet successfully combines courage, tolerance, speed and devotion. There is an erroneous opinion that this is a fighting dog, ready to attack the enemy without hesitation.. However, this stereotype is nothing more than fiction. The breed really has an excellent physique and qualities that would allow the animal to compete for life. But the nature of the “Argentinean” and his ability to assess the situation does not allow him to mindlessly “squabble” with other dogs. This is a smart, brave, possessing excellent flair, hunter.

The Great Dane responds well to training, is not aggressive towards a person and always takes him for an older one. Due to the combination of such qualities, these pets are often used today in police search and rescue operations.

Important! Please note that the breed is not for beginners. Only an experienced dog breeder can handle its speed and power.

Representatives of the breed also conquered people who are far from hunting. Many dog ​​breeders note that “Argentines” are excellent companions and loyal defenders. A puppy brought up from a young age will never leave its owners in trouble. He subtly feels the mood of the owner and is ready to be there in any situation.

It is also worth considering that this breed is very fond of attention. Therefore, you should not get such a pet if you do not have the proper amount of time for its upbringing, communication and training.

Video: breed overview

How to choose a puppy

It is best to purchase a puppy in a professional breeding nursery

The best place to buy a Dogo Argentino puppy is a breeding kennel. The breed is not cheap and you can only get a guarantee that the pet will meet the necessary qualities from experienced dog breeders. In addition, such nurseries care about their reputation.

The optimal age for acquiring a small “Argentinean” is 1,5 months. At this time, he is no longer attached to his mother and perceives training well.

So, when purchasing a puppy, pay attention to the following factors:

1. Baby’s appearance. Healthy puppies should be mobile, cheerful, active. They are moderately well-fed, but not overfed. Clear shiny eyes without streaks and irritation, a lively look, no discharge from the ears or nose, a dense uniform cover (without bald spots) are signs of a healthy puppy.
2. Psyche. An important selection criterion is the behavior of the puppy and his parents. An animal with a balanced and strong psyche should not show cowardice, timidity or aggression. Do not give in to pity if you see an outcast puppy sitting on the sidelines. In the future, with his upbringing, you risk getting a lot of intractable problems.
3. Evaluate compliance with the breed standards of the baby himself, as well as his parents. Ask the breeder for a package of necessary documents, including a veterinary passport with all age vaccinations.

The cost of a Dogo Argentino puppy varies between 15-50 thousand rubles. The lower limit of prices causes the presence of tribal marriage. Such a dog will not be bad, but you will not use it for further breeding. Pets with an excellent pedigree, belonging to the breed class, will cost much more.

Video: external parameters and behavior of puppies

Pet care: where to keep and what to feed

Dogo Argentino is an unpretentious breed that needs walking and attention.

Dogo Argentino is a dog that needs minimal care, which does not involve complex procedures such as trimming, styling, haircuts. The only thing that is required from the owner is the observance of standard pet hygiene, regular combing and physical activity in order to maintain his physical and mental health.

Features of the content in the apartment

Dogo Argentino gets along well in an apartment if you provide him with long walks.

The breed perfectly adapts both to the conditions of apartment maintenance and to life in a country house.. The only important aspect is that the pet does not tolerate cold well, therefore it is not suitable for regions with harsh winters.

This is a very energetic dog, walking which should be given at least 2 hours a day. At this time, the pet must splash out energy, so you need to provide him with active games – throwing a stick, running with obstacles, etc. Otherwise, the “Argentine” will spend an unrealized reserve of energy on damaging household utensils.

Also keep in mind that representatives of this breed do not like to be left without attention. Try to spend as much free time talking with him as possible.

Since the dog loves heat and does not tolerate cold well, think about arranging a bed for your pet.. You can make it yourself from a box and a blanket, or you can buy it ready-made in pet supplies. The main thing is not to place the sunbed in a draft so that your pet feels comfortable and cozy.

Important! The coat of the Dogo Argentino is subject to shedding, so white hairs will be on carpets, floors, clothes, etc. Special attention will have to be paid to cleaning the home.

Pet hygiene

The main measure of care is regular combing of wool

In care, the wool of the “Argentine” is very undemanding. It is enough to comb out the cover once a week with a special rubber brush. Please note that you should not get involved in water procedures, as the pet can catch a cold. It is optimal to bathe the animal once every 3-4 months. For this, any shampoos designed for short-haired breeds are suitable, for example, Trixie, PhytoElite, Baldecchi, Espree brands.

Nails need trimming every 2-3 months. For this, a special nail cutter is used. Perform the procedure carefully, cutting off 1-2 mm of inanimate tissue so as not to touch the nerve. If you still hurt your pet, treat the damaged area with green paint.

Eyes should be wiped with a damp cotton swab at least once a week to remove tear drips. Dogo Argentino’s ears are usually docked at puppyhood to help keep them ventilated. If they are left in their natural form, inspect the shells weekly for the presence of dark secretions. If necessary, remove accumulations with a cotton pad soaked in water.

Important! It is customary to stop the ears of the Dogo Argentino by 2/3 of the original length (in the form of a pointed triangle).

If there is an unpleasant smell from the ears, as well as copious discharge, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Principles of proper nutrition

Dogo Argentino’s diet should be rich in protein

Dogo Argentino needs a balanced diet rich in protein foods. You should take into account the age changes of the dog. Puppies “Argentines” do not feel full and prone to overeating. It is recommended to feed them 4 times a day in small portions (the total weight of the portion should not exceed 10% of the pet’s weight). As the animal grows older, it is transferred to 2 meals a day, increasing the serving size to 350–400 g.

The Dogo Argentino diet should include foods such as:

• raw or cooked lean meat (chicken, rabbit, beef);
• porridge (rice, wheat, oatmeal);
• boiled offal;
• cottage cheese, kefir;
• boiled eggs;
• boiled fish (without bones);
• vegetables (beets, carrots, potatoes, pumpkin, zucchini, turnips);
• fruits (apples, pears).

Important! Meat products should account for ½ of the dog’s entire diet.

It is not recommended to give the “Argentine” the following foods:

• smoked products, sausages;
• sour, pickled foods;
• sweets, chocolate;
• flour products, pastries.

If you are a fan of dry food, then give preference to super-premium mixes. It is recommended to choose products for active dogs with a high protein content.. Food brands such as Bosch, Royal Canin, Dog Chow Active are especially popular.

Features of mating, the course of pregnancy and childbirth

Pregnancy is an important stage in a dog’s life.

Dogo Argentino, as you know, is only white, so the choice of a mating partner is not confined to color. Therefore, when assessing, attention should be paid to such criteria as: health status, absence of breeding defects and marriages, pedigree history.

Important! Dogo Argentino mating is allowed after the third estrus.

Pregnancy normally lasts 63 days, but childbirth in the range between 55-72 days of term is quite acceptable. As a rule, it depends on the number of fruits – the more there are, the faster the pregnancy proceeds. In the first weeks of the term, the bitch does not need special care, however, physical activity should be immediately limited (including high jumps, running). After 35 days, it is necessary to increase the diet by 50%, be sure to include milk, cottage cheese, low-fat cheese. When feeding with dry mixtures, it should be transferred to specialized formulations for pregnant women.

By the end of the period before the onset of childbirth, pay attention to the arrangement of the “maternity”. Choose a cozy warm corner in the house, without drafts, in which you want to put a box (at least 90 * 120 cm in size). It is best to lay a piece of linoleum on the bottom, and cover it with clean sheets on top. Also provide a passage for the dog.

Important! At a height of 5-7 cm from the bottom, attach the bars around the perimeter of the box. This will help prevent babies from being pressed against the walls.

You can identify the approaching birth by several signs:

• the body temperature of the bitch rises to 37 ̊С;
• there is a prolapse of the abdomen;
• discharge from the loop may be observed;
• dog loses appetite
• there is a shiver in the body, the bitch can scratch, lie down on her side, lick her nipples, whine.

This means that the puppies will appear in the next 12-24 hours. Prepare the following essentials:

• pre-sterilized scissors (for cutting the umbilical cord);
• thread, greenery;
• clean diapers;
• terry towel;
• container for collecting afterbirth.

During childbirth, the dog will need the help of the owner

During childbirth, you should be close to the pet and act as follows:

1. As soon as the first puppy appears, gently pick it up and burst the fetal bladder.
2. Wipe the baby with a diaper.
3. If the dog did not gnaw through the umbilical cord on its own, take scissors and cut the umbilical cord at a distance of 2 cm from the abdomen.
4. Treat with greenery and tie with a thread.
5. Put the puppy next to the mother so that he can suckle colostrum. Such actions contribute to the stimulation of uterine contractions of the bitch, which speeds up the birth process.
6. If the baby is not breathing, rub with a terry towel.
7. Treat each subsequent puppy in the same way.

The afterbirth, which will be expelled after each baby, do not throw it away. They need to be put in a separate container and counted at the end of childbirth. If their number does not match the number of newborns, immediately contact a veterinary clinic. This is a clear sign of a frozen fetus, which leads to the death of the bitch.

Education and training

Dogo Argentino lends itself to strict but reasonable training

In the upbringing of the Dogo Argentino, perseverance, calmness and consistency should prevail. The owner must recognize the hunting instincts of the pet and manage them properly.

The first step in raising a puppy is early socialization. At the age of 1,5–2 months, it is necessary to teach the “Argentinean” to adequately respond to the appearance of new people and other animals. He should not show unreasonable aggression. At the same time, the puppy is taught to walk on a leash, sleep in the right place.

At the age of 2-4 months, the pet is already able to perform simple commands, in particular, “Sit!”, “Lie down!”, “Next!”, “No!”. You need to be strict and authoritative, but at the same time not punish for nothing and not raise your voice. The pet needs to inspire its authority without physical measures of aggression.

Each new command should be introduced only after the dog has learned and worked out the previous ones. Use a calm tone and confident voice. After each successful task, be sure to reward your dog with petting or treats. Then the process of education will become trusting and enjoyable.

Dogo Argentino needs increased physical activity, so agility is ideal for him – high-speed obstacle course. If possible, try to take your pet to such classes at least 1-2 times a week.

Video: Argentine training

Video: grip training

dog health

The paradox of this breed is that, despite its artificial origin and the large number of ancestors, it is practically devoid of any genetic ailments. The only serious problem is deafness. This is due to the production of melanin, which is necessary for the white color of the dog. Congenital deafness, as a rule, is accompanied by blue pigmentation of the eyes, so such a puppy is immediately visible.

Very rarely, the following diseases can be diagnosed in the Dogo Argentino:

• food allergies (most often provoked by malnutrition);
• hip or elbow dysplasia;
• glaucoma;
• hypothyroidism (impaired production of thyroid hormones);
• excessive lacrimation.

Dogo Argentino is vaccinated against the following ailments: canine distemper, leptospirosis, infectious hepatitis, parvovirus enteritis, parainfluenza, rabies, coronavirus and trichophytosis.

The vaccination schedule is as follows:

1. The first vaccination is given at the age of 2 months.
2. The second one is 3 weeks later.
3. The third time the puppy is vaccinated at 6 months of age.
4. The fourth vaccine is given when the pet is 1 year old.
5. Further vaccination is carried out once a year.

Remember that after the injection, the puppy is not recommended to overfeed, bathe and take it outside for 12 days. Try to avoid contact with other animals.

Nickname choice

Dogo Argentino suit majestic and noble nickname

When choosing a nickname for the Dogo Argentino, it should be understood that a small snow-white puppy will one day turn into a large muscular dog, and names such as Snowball or Pupsik will sound awkward.

For a male, you can choose one of such nicknames as: Antey, Argo, Atlant, Agat, Aivar, Amur, Arkhat, Baydar, Brandon, Balzac, Boston, Bond, Valdai, Vex, Vincent, Walter, Viking, Jack, Hamlet, Gabriel , Grem, Thunder, Count, Gross, Guidon, Jordan, Jaffar, Douglas, Dixon, Dyger, Euphrates, Zeus, Cardinal, Cobalt, Clif, Christian, Tuning Fork, Lars, Leon, Ludwig, Leroy, Moor, Muscat, Mamai, Morris , Norris, Nord, Norton, Opal, Oscar, Pascal, Prince, Rex, Rambo, Richard, Seymour, Saturn, Stalker, Skif, Tyson, Taigan, Ford, Frederick, Fernando, Harley, Caesar, Churchill, Champion, Sherkhan, Ephesus , Aeneas.

The following nicknames are popular for females: Asta, Alma, Amanda, Arleta, Bagheera, Biata, Beatrissa, Berta, Vega, Virta, Velma, Gerra, Garcia, Gledis, Gloria, Greifa, Dorra, Daira, Doris, Dara, Danara, Zara , Kaira, Korsa, Kara, Ketris, Linda, Laisa, Lika, Mara, Nora, Octavia, Puma, Riya, Sandra, Simone, Tessa, Fortuna, Frida, Helga, Hilda, Sheina, Charlotte, Etna, Elada, Erica, Elsa .

Dog Breeders Reviews

From my own experience, I can say that Dogo Argentino show themselves to be excellent guards. But the Dogo Argentino male does not get along with another male, no matter what breed he is. In your case, when there is already a male at home, it is better to stop the choice on a girl. The health of the breed is generally good. We do not complain)))

Marina Rusakova

Temperament stormy :-)) Dogs are cheerful, open. They are fully aware of their power and strength, they rarely bark, but loudly and scary 🙂 Dogs are very dominant to individuals of the same sex, especially males. The family is always kind and affectionate. Terrible slimes. To be honest, I have never met such licky dogs. Even if you go out to the store for 5 minutes, he meets you as if you had not seen each other for 100 years and will not leave you until you lick to death. But a firm hand and upbringing, upbringing and again upbringing is needed, because by the nature of the dog they are quite stubborn and self-willed, especially males. They learn easily, but often like to test the owner’s nerves for strength, including frost and pretending to be deaf in both ears. We need as early as possible socialization, as much communication as possible between the puppy and different people. by nature, they are distrustful of strangers. Our male running on the street does not pay attention to people if they behave adequately, but he does not let anyone go home, he has to be locked in another room. The protective instinct is highly developed. He loves to play with his own kind (provided that it is a bitch), he will run until the other dog gets tired. Well, in short.

Open

She just loves to kiss! He treats strangers without aggression, with interest. A neighbor four-year-old girl rode him like a horse))) If you want to get yourself a dog of this breed, you will have to devote a lot of time to it. My Waitik always follows me with his tail. Very vulnerable to the manifestation of inattention to his royal person) Dogs of this breed are prone to food allergies and it took me a year to choose a diet that is most suitable for his stomach and to wean myself to treat this impudent white muzzle with goodies from the table.

Angel

Dogo Argentino is a unique breed that combines both strength, power, sharpened instinct of a ruthless hunter and friendliness to humans. This snow-white giant can become an excellent protector of the household and a devoted companion. Such a pet is smart, quick, does not need special care and is unpretentious to living conditions. However, only an experienced dog breeder can turn irrepressible energy into useful working qualities.