Dogo Argentino

Is a Dogo Argentino right for you?

The Dogo Argentino is a white, athletic and very powerful dog developed in Argentina to track and hold big game such as wild boar and puma as part of a pack. It is deeply devoted to its family, but the first thing to know is legal: this breed is banned or restricted in a number of countries. In Turkey, for example, it is officially classed as a dangerous animal and acquiring a new one is not permitted. Check the law where you live before anything else.

Before you adopt

Legal status. Many countries and municipalities list the Dogo Argentino among restricted or prohibited breeds. As one example, under Turkey's Animal Protection Law No. 5199 a 2021 ministerial circular placed the Dogo on the dangerous-animals list alongside the American Pit Bull Terrier, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, American Staffordshire Terrier and American Bully. Breeding, selling, acquiring, importing and advertising these breeds is prohibited there; dogs owned before the cut-off had to be neutered, microchipped and registered, and must be walked muzzled and leashed. A 2022 court challenge to remove the breed from the list was dismissed on procedural grounds.

Be wary of dogs sold as "Dogo crosses" in places with restrictions: this can expose both you and the dog to legal risk. Rules change, so confirm the current position with your local authority.

Where the breed is legal: the puppy should have a BAER hearing test for both ears, and you should see hip evaluations and meet calm, stable parents. Both aggression and excessive shyness are disqualifying faults in the FCI standard.

Temperament

The FCI standard describes the Dogo as brave, silent on the trail, agile and strong, and states clearly that aggression towards people is not acceptable. A well-bred, well-socialised Dogo is affectionate and physically close with its family.

Its original job, though, was catching and holding large animals. That means a high pain threshold, determination and difficulty stopping once engaged. It may be aloof with strangers and have limited tolerance for other dogs, especially of the same sex. Prey drive is a real risk for cats and small animals.

It is intelligent and learns quickly, but was selected to work independently and may question commands. An under-exercised Dogo quickly turns to digging, chewing and escaping.

Health issues and lifespan

Sources usually give a lifespan of 9 to 15 years, longer than the giant molossers.

• Congenital deafness: The breed's defining inherited problem, linked to the pigment genes behind the white coat. Sources report deafness in one or both ears in up to a quarter of dogs. Not responding to calls or not waking to sounds are signs; a BAER test confirms it.
• Sunburn and skin disease: The pink skin under the thin white coat burns, particularly on the nose, ears and belly, raising the long-term risk of skin cancer. Crusting sores that do not heal need a vet. Allergic skin disease is also common.
• Hip dysplasia: Hind-limb lameness, difficulty rising, avoiding stairs. Controlled growth in puppyhood reduces risk.
• Hypothyroidism: Weight gain, lethargy, hair loss and skin infections. Diagnosed by blood test and managed with daily medication.
• Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat): Occurs in this deep-chested breed. A swollen belly, unproductive retching, restlessness and drooling are an emergency; it can kill within hours.
• Laryngeal paralysis: Noisy breathing, voice change and tiring quickly on exercise, often with age; dangerous in heat.

Feeding

An adult Dogo (about 40-45 kg under the FCI standard) typically eats roughly 450-650 g of quality dry food per day, depending on activity and the food's energy density. Use the pack guide as a starting point and aim for ribs that are easy to feel but not visible.

• Puppy (2-15 months): Large-breed puppy food, three meals a day. Extra calcium and rapid weight gain damage developing joints.
• Adult: Two meals a day, with good-quality animal protein.
• Senior (8+ years): Reduce calories; discuss joint support with your vet.

To reduce bloat risk, avoid one large daily meal, use a slow-feeder bowl for fast eaters, and avoid hard exercise for about an hour before and after meals. Plan any diet change for allergic dogs with your vet.

Grooming and coat

• Short, smooth, harsh coat; a weekly rubber brush is enough. Shedding is moderate.
• Bathe when needed with a shampoo suitable for sensitive skin.
• Sun protection: Keep the dog out of midday summer sun and provide shade. A pet-safe sunscreen recommended by your vet can protect the pink nose and ears.
• Check ears weekly and trim nails every three to four weeks.
• Regular tooth care; periodontal disease is reported in the breed.
• A deaf dog needs a secure garden and training with hand signals.

Training and exercise

Daily requirement: at least an hour of vigorous activity plus mental work. Long walks, controlled running, scent games and obedience suit it. Uncontrolled off-lead running is risky because of prey drive.

Priorities:

1. Early and ongoing socialisation. Positive experiences with people, sounds and places between 8 and 16 weeks, continued for life.
2. Controlled introductions to other dogs. Dog parks are often a poor fit.
3. Lead and muzzle training. Legally required in some countries; make the muzzle a positive object with gradual, rewarded steps.
4. Impulse control. "Leave it", "wait" and a reliable recall.
5. Professional help. A reward-based trainer experienced with powerful breeds.

Harsh, punitive methods can increase defensive behaviour. Calm, firm, consistent handling is needed.

History

The Dogo Argentino was created in the province of Córdoba, Argentina, by the physician Antonio Nores Martínez (1907-1956). According to the FCI standard, its foundation was the Old Fighting Dog of Córdoba, crossed with the English Bulldog, Great Dane, Pyrenean Mastiff, Bull Terrier, Boxer, Pointer, Dogue de Bordeaux and Irish Wolfhound.

The aim was a pack hunting dog able to track and face wild boar, peccary and puma, yet never aggressive towards people. The breed was presented at the Hunters' Club in Buenos Aires in 1947 and recognised by the Argentine Kennel Federation in 1964. FCI recognition followed in 1973, thanks to the founder's brother, Agustín Nores Martínez.

It is still used for hunting in Argentina, while in many other countries its strength has led to legal restrictions.