Dogo Argentino Health Issues and What You Need to Know

The Dogo Argentino is a breed known for its intelligence, athleticism, and loyalty, but like all breeds, it's not immune to health issues. Hip dysplasia is a common problem in large breeds like the Dogo Argentino.

Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint doesn't form properly, causing arthritis and mobility issues. This can lead to a reduced quality of life for the dog.

The average lifespan of a Dogo Argentino is 10-12 years, but with proper care and attention to health issues, some have been known to live up to 15 years.

The Dogo Argentino is generally a healthy breed, but like any large dog, they can be prone to certain health issues. One of the most notable is deafness, which is more common in dogs with primarily white fur, like the Dogo Argentino.

Deafness can be a significant issue for dog owners, as it requires special attention and care. It's essential to be aware of the signs of deafness, such as not responding to loud noises or not reacting to their name.

Some large dogs, including the Dogo Argentino, can also suffer from hip dysplasia, which is a failed development of their hip joints. This can lead to arthritis and mobility problems later in life.

Hip dysplasia is not exclusive to the Dogo Argentino, but it's still a concern for breeders and owners alike. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help prevent or manage hip dysplasia in dogs.

Here are some key health issues to be aware of in Dogo Argentinos:

Dogo Argentinos require a nutrient-rich diet to stay healthy, and it's essential to choose a food that's specifically developed for large or giant breeds. AAFCO-approved food is a good starting point.

Dental disease is a common issue in dogs, including Dogo Argentinos, so prescription dental diets can be a great option. Regular feedings are crucial for puppies, who need to eat up to six times a day to avoid low blood sugar.

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Adult Dogo Argentinos can be fed one to three times daily, but it's essential to work with a veterinarian to determine the right amount of food. Their resting energy requirement (RER) ranges from 1,000-1,200 calories per day, and they may need more or less depending on their activity level.

Fish oil is a recommended addition to a Dogo Argentino's diet, providing omega-3, -6, and -9 fatty acids for skin, haircoat, heart, kidney, and joint health. A joint supplement containing MSM, glucosamine, and chondroitin can also help prevent arthritis and hip dysplasia.

Dogo Argentinos should be fed food that is specifically developed for large or giant breeds, as it provides the necessary nutrients for their growth and development.

A prescription dental diet is a great option to prevent dental disease, which is a common ailment in dogs.

Adult Dogo Argentinos can be fed one to three times daily, but puppies need to be fed more often, up to four to six times daily, to maintain their blood sugar levels.

Dogo Argentinos can be eager eaters, so slow-feeding bowls are recommended to prevent rapid food ingestion.

Their resting energy requirement (RER) ranges from 1,000-1,200 calories per day, and they may need more calories with exercise.

Obese Dogo Argentinos should be fed slightly less than their RER to maintain a healthy weight.

Fish oil is a strongly recommended addition to their diet, containing omega-3, -6, and -9 fatty acids that support skin and haircoat health.

A joint supplement containing methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), glucosamine, and chondroitin is also recommended to prevent arthritis and hip dysplasia.

Fresh water should always be available for your Dogo Argentino, and a nutritionally balanced canine diet is essential for their overall health.

A large-breed puppy formula can benefit your Dogo Argentino's growth and joint health.

Most owners feed two measured meals per day, but this can vary depending on your dog's age, size, activity level, and other factors.

You should discuss the type of diet and feeding schedule with your veterinarian to determine the best plan for your Dogo Argentino.

Spaying or neutering your Dogo is a great way to prevent certain types of cancers.

Having your Dogo spayed or neutered can also eliminate the possibility of her becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies.

This surgery is a good opportunity to identify and address some diseases your dog is likely to develop, such as hip issues or tooth problems.

Routine blood testing before surgery helps identify common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk.

By spaying or neutering your Dogo, you'll be giving your friend a healthier and happier life.

Taking care of your Dogo Argentino requires attention to detail, but it's not rocket science. Watch her diet and ensure she gets plenty of exercise.

You'll need to supervise your pet as you would a toddler, keeping doors closed and picking up after yourself to prevent her from getting into trouble. This includes keeping her away from objects she shouldn't put in her mouth.

Brushing her coat is a low-maintenance task that should be done at least weekly. You can also keep her teeth perfect by brushing them at least twice a week.

Cleaning her ears weekly is crucial, even as a puppy. This will help prevent infections and keep her ears healthy.

Be mindful of her sunburn-prone all-white coat and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.

A fenced yard is a must for Dogo Argentinos, as they have a high prey drive and need to be leash walked. This will keep her safe and prevent her from running off.

Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

The Dogo Argentino is generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, it can be prone to certain health issues. Deafness is a common problem in dogs with primarily white fur, like the Dogo Argentino.

Some large breeds, including the Dogo Argentino, are also susceptible to hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joints don't form properly, leading to arthritis. This can cause lameness and difficulty getting up from lying down.

Dental disease is another common issue, and the Dogo Argentino is no exception. Regular brushing and dental cleanings can help prevent tartar buildup and gingivitis. Here are some common health issues to watch out for:

Dental disease is the most common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two.

Brushing your Dogo Argentino's teeth at least three times per week is recommended to prevent tartar buildup and gingivitis.

Tartar buildup on teeth can progress to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth, leading to serious health issues.

If dental disease is left untreated, your Dogo Argentino is in danger of damaging her kidneys, liver, heart, and joints.

Annual dental cleanings with a veterinarian are strongly advised for Dogo Argentinos once they reach 3 or 4 years of age.

Ignoring dental disease can cut your Dogo Argentino's life span by one to three years.

Dogo Argentinos are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections, including parvo, rabies, and distemper, which are the same ones that all dogs can get.

These infections are preventable through vaccination, and we'll recommend a vaccination schedule based on the diseases we see in our area, your dog's age, and other factors.

80% of dogs develop dental disease by age two, and unfortunately, your Dogo Argentino is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth.

Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.

In fact, dental disease can cut your Dogo Argentino's life span by one to three years if not prevented or treated properly.

Parasites are a serious concern for Dogo owners, as all kinds of worms and bugs can invade your Dogo's body, inside and out.

Fleas, ticks, ear mites, hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms are just a few examples of the parasites that can infest your Dogo's skin and ears.

Drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito can get these parasites into your Dogo's system.

Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member, making them a serious concern for everyone in the household.

For your canine friend, these parasites can cause pain, discomfort, and even death, so regular testing is crucial.

We'll recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep your Dogo healthy and parasite-free.

Hip dysplasia is a common health issue in Dogo Argentinos, an inherited disease that causes the hip joints to form improperly and leads to arthritis.

This condition can cause lameness in the hind legs or difficulty getting up from lying down. It's essential to identify hip dysplasia early on to avoid discomfort and pain.

Dogs with hip dysplasia may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering. This is especially true for overweight dogs.

To treat arthritis, X-rays of the dog's joints are taken to identify the disease as early as possible. Surgery may be considered in severe and life-limiting cases of hip dysplasia.

Here are some key facts about hip dysplasia in Dogo Argentinos:

Older Dogos may develop Laryngeal Paralysis, a disease in which the vocal cords become paralyzed and hang down into the airway.

Watch for noisy breathing, especially when exercising or in hot, humid weather. This is a common sign of the disease.

In severe cases, a pet can collapse and have difficulty breathing. It's a serious condition that requires immediate attention.

Mild cases can be managed with changes at home and possibly medication.

Bring your Dogo in right away if you notice signs of Laryngeal Paralysis, because you don't want this problem to become a surgical emergency.

If you're a Dogo Argentino owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can arise in this breed. Deafness is a common problem in dogs with primarily white fur, like the Dogo Argentino, so keep an ear out for any unusual sounds or responses to commands.

Dogs with hip dysplasia may experience lameness in their hind legs or difficulty getting up from lying down. This is a condition that can be treated with medication and surgery, but it's crucial to catch it early to avoid discomfort and pain.

Some infections, such as parvo, rabies, and distemper, are prevalent in Dogo Argentinos and can be prevented with vaccination. Make sure your dog is up-to-date on their shots to keep them safe.

Older Dogos may develop laryngeal paralysis, which can cause noisy breathing, especially during exercise or in hot weather. If you notice any of these symptoms, bring your dog in right away to avoid a surgical emergency.

Here are some key signs to watch out for that could indicate a serious health issue in your Dogo Argentino:

Preventative Care is a crucial aspect of keeping your Dogo Argentino healthy and happy. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch any potential health issues early on.

To maintain your Dogo's oral health, brush her teeth at least twice a week, as Dogo Argentinos generally have good teeth and regular brushing can keep them perfect.

Supervising your pet as you would a toddler is vital, keeping doors closed, picking up after yourself, and blocking off rooms as necessary will keep her out of trouble and away from objects she shouldn’t put in her mouth.

A high-quality diet appropriate for your Dogo's age is essential, and feeding her regularly but not overdoing it at first will help prevent digestive issues.

Here are some key preventative care tasks to remember:

By following these simple yet effective preventative care tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of health issues and ensure your Dogo Argentino lives a long, happy, and healthy life.

If you notice any of the following signs in your Dogo Argentino, seek medical care immediately.

Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge can be a sign of an ear infection, so take your dog to the vet right away.

Inability or straining to urinate; discolored urine is a sign of a urinary tract issue, which requires prompt attention.

Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes needs to be checked by a vet to prevent vision loss.

Leg stiffness, reluctance to rise, sit, use stairs, run, jump, or "bunny hopping" can be a sign of arthritis or other joint issues.

Loud panting, especially when hot or after exercise, can be a sign of heatstroke or other breathing issues.

Dull coat, hair loss, sluggish, weight gain can be a sign of a hormonal imbalance or other health issue.

Easily startled, no reaction to unseen sounds can be a sign of hearing loss or other sensory issues.

Here are some signs that require immediate veterinary attention: