Dogo Argentino

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The Dogo Argentino dog is new to the AKC. Separate the facts from fiction with this loyal, fearless companion in our guide.
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Breed Snapshot

Life Expectancy:

9 to 15 years

Size:

Large

Maintenance Level:

Medium

Shed Level:

Medium

Temperament:

AthleticStrong-WilledFearlessAdventurous

Coat Color:

White
Blue Ribbon

Best For

The Dogo Argentino breed is best for experienced pet parents who don't know the meaning of the phrase "sit still" but know the importance of consistency in training. They thrive in homes with large backyards where they are the only pet.

Dogo Argentino Traits

Dogo Argentino Temperament

Bred for hunting wild boars and other large animals in the forests of Argentina, the Dogo Argentino breed is athletic with an energy level to match. These dogs were built for speed, so just one walk around the neighborhood isn’t going to cut it.

Argentinos are loyal, fearless and brilliant as a guard dog; they wouldn’t give a second thought to putting themselves in between you and danger. But they’re not without a soft candy center, either. While not as aloof as the Cane Corso, they can be friendly with guests (of the human variety) as long as they’re properly trained and socialized, and they enjoy a rousing game of hide-and-seek with their family.

How to Care for a Dogo Argentino

From their Tough Guy (or Girl!) exterior, these dogs look low maintenance, but the upkeep of a Dogo has way less to do with their grooming needs and everything to do with keeping up with a very large and active dog.

Dogo Argentino Health

Dogo Argentinos have a lifespan of 9 to 15 years, and they don’t have a lot of health issues. There are a few health problems that you should be aware of, so you can help your pup live the happiest and healthiest life possible.

  • Congenital Deafness: Dogo Argentinos can suffer from hereditary congenital deafness in one or both ears. One recent study found that partial or total deafness affected as many as one-fourth of more than 800 Dogos studied. This condition was often associated with a white pigmentation or coat and was more prevalent in dogs without a color patch, as well as blue-eyed dogs. Reputable breeders screen for these genetic markers and puppies have their hearing tested at about 35 days old. If your pup is partially or fully deaf, no worries! A deaf Dogo can still lead a full, happy life as a pet.
  • Ear Infections: Dogo Argentinos with floppy, uncropped ears may be more prone to ear infections or being really dirty due to trapped moisture and fluid. You can keep your pup’s ears clean with routine maintenance. If your pup has an ear infection, your vet can prescribe a range of treatments, including cleaning the ears with a medicated solution and topical ointments.
  • Skin Issues: Their short white coat is beautiful, but it also makes the Dogo Argentino more susceptible to sunburn. The breed can also experience skin sensitivities from allergies (food and otherwise) or underlying health conditions. If you notice redness or a rash on your Dogo, your vet can determine exactly what you’re dealing with and how best to treat it.
  • Joint Problems: As with other large-breed dogs, the Dogo Argentino is at a greater risk for hip dysplasia and joint issues in the elbows or knees. Speak with your vet about potential nutritional supplements to help thwart symptoms that can increase with age or surgical options if joint damage becomes severe.
  • Hypothyroidism: This condition occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t work properly, and the dog’s metabolism slows down. The Dogo Argentino can be more susceptible to this hormonal imbalance than other breeds. Your vet can diagnose your pup with a test, and prescribe treatment options, such as prescription medication, to regulate their thyroid levels.

Dogo Argentino History

The Dogo Argentino’s origins are relatively recent—1928 Argentina to be exact. Created by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez, the Dogo Argentino’s bloodline includes the Great Dane, Pointer, Bull Terrier, Boxer, Bulldog, Pyrenean Mastiff, Irish Wolfhound, Spanish Mastiff and the Old Fighting Dog from the Córdoba province. Nores Martinez, an avid hunter, quickly realized the Dogos capacity for catching large, dangerous game such as wild boar and puma.

The Dogos are still used as hunting dogs in both Argentina and in rural parts of the US. Often, Texas farmers will use Dogos for hunting the wild boar that overrun their farms and devastate crops. And they’re ideal for this job; not only are they more than capable, these agile dogs do far less damage to the farmland than machinery or vehicles would.

The Dogo Argentino is one of the newest breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club. While their parent breed club, the Dogo Argentino Club of America, formed in 1985, the Dogo joined the ranks of the AKC in 2020.

Looking to add the Dogo Argentino to your family? You can find a responsible breeder at the AKC’s website. A puppy can cost upwards of $1,000, but for that, you’re likely getting a puppy who’s been screened for health issues, and you may get pedigree papers. Or, you can keep an eye out for the breed at a local animal shelter or Dogo Argentino rescue.

FAQs

Are Dogo Argentinos hypoallergenic?

No, Dogo Argentinos are not considered hypoallergenic. While Dogos have short fur, they do shed, and that plus dander equals trouble for allergy sufferers.

Are Dogo Argentinos dangerous or aggressive?

A properly trained and socialized Dogo Argentino is not aggressive or dangerous. However, with their size, strength and strong bite force, this pup will give any potential intruder a good reason to pass right by your house.

Are Dogo Argentinos good family dogs?

Dogo Argentinos can be good family dogs. While they may not love having a fluffy Pomeranian as a fur sibling, a well-trained and socialized Dogo can be a loving fur sibling to older kids.

What are the most popular Dogo Argentino names?

The most popular Dogo Argentino names include Max, Rocky, Ghost, Jack, Milo, Paco, Oscar, Leo, Zeus, Molly, Bella, Coco, Neva, Luna, Freya, Rosie, Mia, Layla and Lulu. Get more dog names here.

What are the most common Dogo Argentino mixes?

The most common Dogo Argentino mixes are:

  • Dogo Argentino-Pitbull mix (Dogo Argentino Pitbull)
  • Dogo Argentino-Rottweiler mix (Dogo Argentino Rottweiler)
  • Dogo Argentino-Cane Corso mix (Dogo Argentino Cane Corso)
  • Dogo Argentino-Husky mix (Dogo Argentino Husky)
  • Dogo Argentino-Lab mix (Dogo Argentino Labrador)
  • Dogo Argentino-Doberman mix (Dobie Argentino)
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Top Takeaways

The Dogo Argentino dog might not be for everyone, but those who are game to take on the physical and mental needs of this impressive breed will find a fiercely loyal—and absolutely fun!—confidant. This high-energy, yet low-maintenance breed is most at home with an active explorer who has ample space and time to dedicate rather than a 9-to-5-er who is looking for a low-key cuddle buddy. Yet, give any Dogo a job and lots of exercise, and you’ll find they’re just as ready to take a mid-afternoon nap by your side.

Expert input provided by emergency vet tech Kathleen McLaughlin, who is the education coordinator for the Dogo Argentino Club of America, and certified dog trainer Jennifer Herrera, MA, CPDT-KA, CDW, of Hudson Barks.

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Top Dogo Argentino Names

These are the top Dogo Argentino names as chosen by Chewy's pet parents!

Female Names

  • Luna
  • Bella
  • Nova
  • Harley
  • Arya
  • Lola
  • Nala
  • Xena
  • Luna
  • Lily

Male Names

  • Ghost
  • Zeus
  • Apollo
  • Odin
  • Thor
  • Loki
  • Kane
  • Maximus
  • Duke
  • Zeus