Dogo Argentino
Updated November 29, 2025
The Dogo Argentino is a loyal and courageous breed, originally developed for big-game hunting in Argentina. They are known for their strength, intelligence, and protective instincts, making them excellent family guardians. With proper training and socialization, they are affectionate and gentle companions.
Loyal, Brave, Affectionate, Protective, Cheerful
88-100 pounds
24-26.5 inches
10-15 years
White
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is a loyal and courageous breed, originally developed for big-game hunting in Argentina. They are known for their strength, intelligence, and protective instincts, making them excellent family guardians. With proper training and socialization, they are affectionate and gentle companions.
What Makes Dogo Argentinos Special
The Dogo Argentino is a powerful, athletic, and loyal breed with a strong protective instinct. They are both formidable hunters and gentle family companions, known for their courage and unwavering devotion to their owners.
Their striking white coat and muscular build give them a majestic appearance, while their cheerful and affectionate nature endears them to their families.
Dogo Argentino History & Origin
The Dogo Argentino was created in the 1920s by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez in the Córdoba region of Argentina. His goal was to develop a versatile hunting dog that could take on big game such as wild boar and puma, while also being a loyal family protector. The breed was created by systematically crossing the now-extinct Cordoba Fighting Dog with several other breeds, including the Great Dane, Boxer, Spanish Mastiff, Old English Bulldog, Bull Terrier, Great Pyrenees, Pointer, Irish Wolfhound and Dogue de Bordeaux.
The breed was specifically developed to be a cooperative pack hunter, capable of working alongside other dogs without aggression.
The Dogo Argentino was officially recognized by the Argentinian Kennel Club in 1964 and by the FCI in 1973.
The American Kennel Club recognized the Dogo Argentino as a member of the Working Group in 2020.
Dogo Argentino Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Dogo Argentino Appearance
The Dogo Argentino is a large, well-muscled dog with a short, all-white coat. Their appearance is one of power, grace, and intelligence. They have a strong head with a powerful jaw and an alert expression.
Their body is slightly longer than it is tall, and they move with a confident and agile gait.
Physical Features
Ears
The ears are set high on the head and are broad and flat. They may be cropped to stand erect and triangular, or left in their natural state, hanging close to the cheeks.
Eyes
Their eyes are of medium size, almond-shaped, and set wide apart. The color is typically dark or hazelnut, with an intelligent and sometimes intense gaze.
Nose
The nose is large with wide nostrils and should be completely black.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The Dogo Argentino has a short, single coat that is smooth to the touch.
Coat Color
The coat is uniformly white. A single black or dark-colored patch on the head, around one eye or on one ear, is permissible but should not exceed 10% of the head's surface.
Tail
The tail is long and sabre-shaped, thick at the base and tapering to a point. It is carried naturally low, but when the dog is alert or in motion, it is raised in an upward curve.
Dogo Argentino Temperament
The Dogo Argentino is a cheerful, humble, and friendly dog. They are not dogs that bark a lot, and they are always aware of their power.
They are excellent pack hunters, which is a trait that was intentionally bred into them. This makes them good companions for other dogs, but their strong prey drive means they may not be suitable for homes with cats or other small animals unless raised with them from a young age.
With their family, they are known to be gentle and very loyal, forming strong bonds with their owners. They are also known to be good with children, acting as patient and tolerant protectors.
Due to their protective nature and imposing appearance, they make excellent guard dogs. Early and consistent socialization and training are crucial to ensure they are well-adjusted and not overly suspicious of strangers.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
The Dogo Argentino is a generally healthy breed with a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. However, like all large breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. Responsible breeders will screen their breeding stock for these issues.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, proper exercise, and genetic screening can help ensure a long and healthy life.
How to Care for a Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is a powerful and athletic breed that requires a committed owner to provide proper training, socialization, and exercise. While their grooming needs are minimal, their mental and physical stimulation requirements are high.
Grooming
The Dogo Argentino's short, white coat is easy to care for and requires minimal grooming.
Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush or a soft bristle brush will help to remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy.
Baths are only needed occasionally, as their coat is naturally clean.
Due to their white coat, they can be prone to sunburn, so care should be taken during prolonged sun exposure.
Their nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth and cracking.
Training
Early socialization and obedience training are essential for the Dogo Argentino to mature into a well-behaved companion.
They are intelligent and eager to please, but can also be strong-willed, so a firm and consistent but fair training approach is necessary.
Positive reinforcement techniques work best, as they can be sensitive to harsh treatment.
Due to their hunting instincts, a strong recall command is crucial.
Participation in dog sports such as obedience, tracking, or agility can provide excellent mental stimulation.
Diet
A high-quality diet formulated for large, active breeds is essential for the Dogo Argentino's health and energy levels.
The amount of food will depend on the dog's age, size, and activity level.
It is important to monitor their weight and body condition to prevent obesity, which can lead to joint problems.
Fresh, clean water should be available at all times.
Exercise
The Dogo Argentino is a high-energy breed that requires a significant amount of daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy.
Long, brisk walks, jogging, and running in a securely fenced area are great ways to burn off energy.
They make excellent companions for hiking and other outdoor activities.
Without sufficient exercise, they can become bored and destructive.
Environment
Dogo Argentinos are best suited for a home with a large, securely fenced yard where they can run and play.
They are not ideal for apartment living due to their size and high exercise needs.
They thrive in an active household where they are included in family activities.
Their short coat offers little protection in cold climates, so they should not be left outdoors for extended periods in cold weather.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
A home with a large, securely fenced yard is a must.
Climate Adaptability
They tolerate warm weather well but are not suited for very cold climates due to their short coat.
Apartment Living
Not at all suitable for apartment living.
Best Suited For
Ideal for active individuals or families who have experience with large, powerful breeds.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dogo Argentinos good family dogs?
Yes, with proper training and socialization, Dogo Argentinos can be excellent family dogs. They are known to be gentle and protective with children in their family.
Do Dogo Argentinos shed a lot?
They are considered to be moderate shedders. Their short coat is easy to maintain with regular brushing.
How much exercise does a Dogo Argentino need?
They are a very high-energy breed and require at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous exercise every day.
Are Dogo Argentinos aggressive?
They have a strong protective instinct and can be wary of strangers. A high prey drive can make them aggressive towards other animals if not properly socialized. Early and consistent training is crucial to manage these traits.
Can a Dogo Argentino live in an apartment?
No, their size, energy level, and need for a large yard make them unsuitable for apartment living.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization with a variety of people, places, and other animals is critical. Start basic obedience training early.
Senior Care
As they age, they may be prone to joint issues, so adjust their exercise accordingly. Regular vet check-ups are important to monitor for age-related health problems.
First-Time Owner Tips
Not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their strength, intelligence, and strong will.
Looking for a Dogo Argentino?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.