The Muscular Dogo Argentino is a stunning breed, known for its athletic build and muscular physique. They weigh between 70-100 pounds and stand 23-27 inches tall at the shoulder.
Their muscular build is not just for show, it's also a testament to their incredible strength and agility. They are bred for hunting and guarding, and their powerful physique allows them to tackle challenging tasks with ease.
In terms of exercise needs, the Muscular Dogo Argentino requires regular physical activity to maintain its muscular tone. A daily walk or run, combined with playtime and mental stimulation, is essential to keep this breed happy and healthy.
Characteristics and Appearance
The Dogo Argentino is a large dog, with weights ranging from 40-45 kg (90-100 lb) for males and slightly less for females.
Their height at the withers is between 60-68 cm (24-27 in) for males and 60-65 cm (24-26 in) for females.
The length of their body is slightly greater than their height at the withers, up to a maximum of one tenth more.
Their coat is short and always white, with a single black or dark-coloured spot on the head tolerated as long as it's no larger than one tenth of the size of the head.
Their muzzle is about the same length as their skull.
Dogo Argentinos have muscular builds, with a short white coat and an occasional smattering of black on the eye, ear, or face.
Their dark oval eyes are positioned evenly under a jutting brow, and their short muzzle and slightly upturned nose help give them a strong sense of smell.
They weigh between 88-100 pounds and stand as high as 26.5 inches at the shoulder.
Their triangular ears might lift on point or drape slightly to the sides, and they have a straight, narrow tail.
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Health
The muscular Dogo Argentino is a sturdy breed that can live up to 15 years with proper care. They have a moderate diet that keeps them lean, and their short coats make them heat-tolerant.
Their lifespan is influenced by their diet and exercise, with a moderate diet that keeps them lean being key. A healthy Dogo Argentino can live for 9-15 years.
Deafness is a significant health concern in this breed, with a rate of approximately 10% according to the Merck Veterinary Manual. This number can be reduced by a diligent breeding program.
The biggest health concern in this breed is deafness, with 10% of Dogos being affected. A diligent breeding program can cut this number in half by not using dogs with congenital deafness in either ear.
Large, powerful breeds like the Dogo Argentino can suffer from elbow and hip dysplasia, as well as bloat, glaucoma, laryngeal paralysis, and hypothyroidism.
Hip dysplasia is a common issue in large breeds, with Dogos being no exception. To minimize the risk, ask the breeder for written evidence that the puppy's parents have hips rated as fair, good, or excellent by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).
Here are some recommended health clearances for Dogo Argentinos:
- OFA BAER (brainstem auditory evoked response) test for hearing
- OFA thyroid evaluation
Regular exercise is crucial for a Dogo Argentino's health, with plenty of playtime and walks in the park being essential.
Temperament and Training
The muscular Dogo Argentino is a breed that requires a lot of attention and training. They are not a good choice for inexperienced or casual dog owners, and they need an experienced owner who is firm, confident, consistent, and careful.
They are naturally aggressive towards strange dogs and people, and even familiar dogs, making them a good watchdog and protection dog. However, with proper socialization and training, they can be loving, loyal, and demonstrative companions.
Dogo Argentinos are highly intelligent and can be trained with consistency and firmness. They are best suited for active families with older children who can handle their boisterous energy. They need intense mental stimulation and focused physical activity to be happy and engaged.
A walk around the block is not enough for these dogs; they need to run and wrestle to bring out their best behavior. They can join their owners in hunts, dog sports, and more active exercise such as biking, jogging, or hiking.
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Temperament and Training
The Dogo Argentino is a powerful and intelligent breed that requires experienced owners who are firm, confident, consistent, and careful. They can be aggressive toward strange dogs and people.
This breed is not a good choice for children or the elderly due to their strength. However, they make great watchdogs and protection dogs.
Dogo Argentinos are loyal and loving companions that thrive on close contact. They are playful and energetic, and need activities to occupy them.
They are not prolific barkers, but they do require intense mental stimulation to be happy and engaged. Extensional training can include scent work, agility tasks, and specific retrieval goals.
Focused physical activity is essential for this breed, and they need to be able to run and wrestle. A walk around the block won't satisfy their desire for exercise.
They are highly trainable, but require consistent and firm training. With the right owners, they can be submissive and friendly to humans and other animals.
Their intelligence and strength make them suitable for roles such as police and military dogs, guides, therapy, rescue, and search dogs.
Dog vs Puma: Fatal Encounter?
Dogo Argentinos can kill pumas due to their muscular body and fighting ability. Their strength allows them to withstand the damage caused by a puma's claws and teeth.
A fully grown male puma is strong and can defend itself well, but it can still be killed by a Dogo Argentino.
Is a Pitbull?
The question of whether a Pitbull is a breed that comes up often. Dogo Argentino is not a Pitbull, despite its face resembling one, as it's a breed derived from the Mastiff.
One of the reasons people might confuse Dogo Argentino with Pitbull is their physical appearance. The Dogo Argentino's face is indeed similar to a Pitbull's, but that's where the similarity ends.
The Dogo Argentino is also known as the Argentine Mastiff due to its Mastiff heritage. This breed has a distinct history and temperament that sets it apart from Pitbulls.
Living and Getting a Dog
To live with a Dogo Argentino, you'll need to provide a lot of attention and exercise. They thrive in environments with plenty of room to roam and things to do, ideally a farm or ranch.
Dogo Argentinos are extremely loving with their people, but they don't like to be left alone for long periods of time. If left on their own, they can turn to undesirable behaviors to keep themselves entertained.
To ensure a happy and healthy Dogo Argentino, you'll need to keep them mentally stimulated, physically active, well-trained, and socialized. They have a strong prey drive and were bred to hunt big game, so it's best to keep them in a large fenced-in yard and leash train them as a puppy.
If you're considering bringing a Dogo Argentino into your life, you have a few options: finding a reputable breeder or adopting from a shelter or rescue organization. To find a good breeder, look for one with experience and knowledge about the Dogo's health, temperament, and likes and dislikes.
Here are some things to keep in mind when getting a Dogo Argentino:
- How is the dog around with other humans and animals?
- What's his energy level?
- What's his age?
- What's his personality?
- Are there any health issues or previous injuries?
The cost of a Dogo Argentino can vary, but on average, you can expect to pay between $1000 to $2500. Be wary of breeders or shelters that ask for significantly lower prices, as they may compromise on the animal's health.
Living Needs
Dogo Argentinos thrive in environments with plenty of room to roam and things to do, ideally a farm or ranch.
They have a strong prey drive and were bred to hunt big game, so it's essential to keep them in a large fenced-in yard.
Dogo Argentinos need a good bit of attention and don't like to be left alone for long periods of time.
If left on their own for too long, they can turn to undesirable behaviors to keep themselves entertained.
With proper training and socialization, a Dogo can live contently in a family with less work than they were intended for.
Leash training as a puppy is crucial to prevent them from giving chase when they see prey.
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Getting a Dog
Getting a Dog is a big decision, and it's essential to do your research. You can find a Dogo Argentino in a rescue or shelter house easily.
Reputable breeders can also help you find and get a Dogo as your pet. An expert breeder will assist you in the health screening process of your dog.
There are several reputable breeders in the business that are experienced and have good knowledge about the Dogo's health, temperament, and its likes and dislikes.
You can also adopt a Dogo Argentino from shelter houses or rescue organizations. To do this, search credible online websites that are certified adoption centers, reach out to local experts to help you find the right dog, or contact breed rescue.
Before taking a Dogo Argentino home, make sure to ask about his behavior around other humans and animals, his energy level, age, personality, health issues, and previous injuries.
The cost of a Dogo Argentino can vary greatly, ranging from $1000 to $2500. Be cautious of breeders or shelters that ask for lower prices, as they may compromise on the animal's health.
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