The Dogo Argentino female is a loyal and loving companion, but she requires consistent training and socialization from an early age. This breed was originally bred for hunting and guarding, so they have a strong prey drive and can be wary of strangers.
To train a Dogo Argentino female, you'll need to establish clear boundaries and use positive reinforcement techniques. They thrive on structure and clear communication, so be prepared to set aside time each day for training and exercise.
A well-trained Dogo Argentino female is a joy to be around, but if left untrained, they can become destructive and difficult to manage. With patience and consistency, you can help your Dogo Argentino female become a well-behaved and loving member of your family.
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Origins and History
The Dogo Argentino female is a breed with a rich history. Antonio Nores Martinez, a young student from Córdoba, Argentina, set out to create a new breed in the 1920s, specifically for big game hunting. He wanted a dog with the fighting qualities of the Old Cordoba Fighting Dog, but with greater size and strength.
Martinez started with a Bull Terrier bitch and bred her to a spotted fighting dog of bulldog type. He selected and inter-bred their offspring, choosing for a white coat color and rejecting any animal with an undershot jaw. By the twelfth generation, his dogs were breeding true.
The breed was introduced to the Club de Cazadores in 1947 and a breed standard was published in the magazine Diana in 1948. Martinez continued to promote the Dogo Argentino, even after his brother Augustin took over.
Here are some key facts about the origins and history of the Dogo Argentino:
- The Dogo Argentino was created by Antonio Nores Martinez in the 1920s.
- The breed was developed from a mix of the Old Cordoba Fighting Dog, Bull Terrier, and other breeds.
- The Dogo Argentino was first used for dog fighting, but later became a hunting breed.
- The breed was introduced to the Club de Cazadores in 1947 and the American Kennel Club in 2020.
The Dogo Argentino is a relatively new breed, but it has already gained recognition from kennel clubs around the world.
Characteristics and Temperament
The Dogo Argentino female is a large dog, weighing between 40-45 kg (90-100 lb) and standing between 60-65 cm (24-26 in) tall at the withers. Her short, white coat is always a striking feature.
She has a muscular build and a strong, athletic physique, making her a formidable companion. Her high prey drive can make her a poor match for other household pets, especially smaller animals.
She requires an experienced owner who is firm, confident, consistent, and careful, as she may be aggressive toward strange dogs and people, and even familiar dogs. She is a good watchdog and protection dog, but not a good choice for children or the elderly.
Here are some key characteristics of the Dogo Argentino female:
Characteristics of the Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is a large dog breed, with males weighing between 88-100 pounds and females weighing between 88-95 pounds. They typically stand between 24-26½ inches tall.
One of the breed's distinctive features is its short, white coat, which requires minimal grooming. A single black or dark-colored spot on the head is sometimes tolerated, but it must be no larger than one-tenth of the size of the head.
For another approach, see: Bull Terrier Head Shape
The breed's athletic build and high energy level make them a great fit for active owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. In fact, they thrive on daily activity and can become destructive if left bored or under-exercised.
Here are some key characteristics of the Dogo Argentino:
The breed's intelligence and trainability make them highly responsive to obedience training, but they do require consistent socialization and training from an early age. With the right owner, they can be a loving, loyal, and protective companion.
Training
Training is crucial for a Dogo Argentino, and it's best to start early. These dogs can be difficult to manage if they're ill-mannered, big, and strong adults.
You'll want to use positive reinforcement training methods, as harsh corrections can hinder learning.
Enroll your dog in a puppy obedience class as soon as they're old enough.
Care and Maintenance
The Dogo Argentino is a high-energy breed that requires daily vigorous exercise to stay happy and healthy. This means long walks, playtime in a secure fenced yard, and engaging activities like agility training and scent work.
They don't need a lot of grooming, but regular brushing is essential to remove loose hair and distribute oils. A soft bristle brush or rubber curry brush is perfect for this task.
Dogo Argentinos are not fond of extreme temperatures, so make sure they have a comfortable place to rest in the shade or air conditioning. This is especially important for young puppies who are still growing.
Because of their short, white coat, they are prone to sunburn, so be mindful of how much time they spend in direct sunlight. Discuss sun protection with your vet to find the best solution for your dog.
Regular ear checks are crucial to prevent infections, and your vet can show you how to properly clean their ears. Nail trimming and dental care are also essential, so aim to brush their teeth daily and trim their nails roughly once a month.
Health and Problems
The Dogo Argentino female is a generally healthy breed, but like all breeds, she's not immune to health issues. Deafness is a common problem in white-furred dogs like the Dogo Argentino.
Dogs with primarily white fur are more prone to deafness than other pups. This is a genetic trait that affects some breeds more than others.
Hip dysplasia is another potential issue that can affect large breeds like the Dogo Argentino. This is a failed development of the hip joints, which can lead to arthritis and mobility problems.
If you're considering bringing a Dogo Argentino female into your family, it's essential to be aware of these potential health issues and to work with a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.
Here are some resources to help you learn more about the Dogo Argentino and find support if you encounter any health issues:
- Dogo Argentino Club of America
- Dogo Argentino Rescue
Breed Overview
The Dogo Argentino female is a stunning breed, and here's a quick rundown of what you can expect.
They typically stand between 24 to 25.5 inches tall.
These lovely ladies usually weigh in at 80 to 100 pounds.
Their lifespan is impressive, ranging from 9 to 15 years.
Dogo Argentino females are known for their loyal and fearless temperament, making them a great companion for active families.
Their energetic nature means they require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Getting a Dogo Argentino
Getting a Dogo Argentino can be a challenge, as they're relatively rare in North America.
You might be able to find a Dogo Argentino in need of a home at a local shelter or rescue group.
Expect to pay around $2,000 to $3,000 for a reputable breeder puppy, though this can vary depending on bloodline and other factors.
It's worth noting that prices can vary widely, so be prepared for some flexibility in your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Dogo Argentino a good family dog?
A Dogo Argentino can make a great family pet if you have a spacious home and are willing to provide the necessary exercise and care. However, they may not be suitable for families with small children due to their energetic nature
Sources
- FCI breeds nomenclature: Dogo Argentino (fci.be)
- El Dogo Argentino (google.it)
- FCI-Standard N° 292: Dogo Argentino (fci.be)
- Dogo Argentino | Dog Breed, Description, Temperament, & ... (britannica.com)
- Dogo Argentino Dog Breed Information and Pictures (dogbreedinfo.com)
- Dogo Argentino Club of America (facebook.com)
- Dogo Argentino Rescue (dcdogos.org)
- Dogo Argentino Club of America (dogousa.org)
- Breed History (dogousa.org)
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