The Dogo Argentino, which hails from Argentina, has established itself as a formidable and devoted companion in the United States, captivating dog enthusiasts with its unique blend of strength, agility, and unwavering loyalty. As individuals contemplate welcoming this noble breed into their homes, it becomes crucial to comprehend the Dogo Argentino’s sizes, weights, characteristics, and colors.
| Category | Male Dogo Argentino | Female Dogo Argentino |
| Average Weight | 88-100 pounds | 88-95 pounds |
| Height Range | 24.5-27 inches | 24.5-25.5 inches |
| Coat Color | Pure White with permissible markings | Pure White with permissible markings |
| Life Expectancy | 10-15 years | 10-15 years |
| Price Range | $1,500 – $5,000 | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Characteristics | Powerful build, athletic, loyal | Playful, energetic, strong prey drive |
| Temperament | Loyal, protective, energetic | Energetic, playful, strong prey drive |
| Recommended Owners | Experienced handlers | Experienced handlers |
With its robust physique, striking white fur, and determined expression, the Dogo Argentino epitomizes both physical prowess and a gentle disposition, making it a distinctive and cherished addition to households throughout the U.S. By delving into the intricacies of their various sizes, weight variations, characteristic traits, and diverse color patterns, prospective owners gain valuable insights into the captivating world of Dogo Argentinos thriving in the United States.
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Dogo Argentino Sizes
The Dogo Argentino, originally bred in Argentina, is a sizable dog breed primarily used for hunting large game such as peccaries, wild boar, and pumas. Based on the search findings, the average weight of a Dogo Argentino ranges from 80 to 100 pounds. Males tend to be slightly taller than females, with a withers height of 24 to 27 inches for males and 24 to 25.5 inches for females.
The breed’s body is typically longer than its height, and it possesses a broad, large head. The recommended height for males is 25 to 25.5 inches, while for females, it is 24.5 to 25 inches. The coat of the breed is short, smooth, plain, and white in color.
Dogo Argentino Weight
Based on the search results, the weight of a Dogo Argentino can vary based on factors such as gender and age. Typically, male Dogo Argentinos weigh between 88 to 100 pounds, while females weigh between 88 to 95 pounds. During the early stages of their life, at three months old, puppies generally weigh between 28 and 34 pounds. As they grow, by six months, their weight increases to around 52 and 64 pounds.
It takes approximately 19 months for Dogo Argentinos to reach their full size. However, their larger size makes them more susceptible to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, which is common among many larger breeds. On average, the life expectancy of a Dogo Argentino is around 9 to 12 years.
Dogo Argentino Characteristics
The Dogo Argentino is a remarkable and agile breed of dog, easily identifiable by its sleek white fur and strong physique. Originally bred in Argentina for hunting large game, these dogs possess a unique combination of strength, intelligence, and loyalty. Let’s take a closer look at some of their notable characteristics:
Appearance:
- Distinctive White Coat: Their short and smooth fur is predominantly white, with only a small dark patch near the eye allowed according to breed standards. This pure white coat stands out against any background, truly making the Dogo Argentino a breed that catches the eye.
- Powerful Build: These dogs are large in size, typically measuring 24-26 inches in height at the shoulder and weighing between 80-100 pounds. Their muscular bodies are designed for endurance and agility, enabling them to pursue prey in challenging terrains.
- Impressive Athleticism: Dogos Argentinos are natural athletes, excelling in various canine sports such as agility, weight pulling, and schutzhund. Their powerful stride and boundless energy make them a captivating sight in motion.
Temperament:
- Loyal and Protective: Dogos form strong bonds with their families and exhibit fierce protectiveness towards their loved ones. When properly socialized, they are usually gentle and affectionate with children.
- Energetic and Playful: These dogs have a playful nature and require ample exercise to maintain their happiness and well-being. They thrive on outdoor activities like running, hiking, and swimming.
- Strong Prey Drive: Dogos retain their hunting instincts and possess a high prey drive. They may chase small animals, which makes them less suitable for households with cats or other small pets unless carefully managed.
- Independent Thinkers: Dogos are intelligent but can also be stubborn and independent. They require experienced owners who can provide consistent training and positive reinforcement.
Living with a Dogo Argentino:
- Experienced Handlers Recommended: It is advised that individuals with prior dog ownership experience consider owning a Dogo Argentino. Due to their size, energy levels, and strong prey drive, these dogs require experienced handlers who can provide them with appropriate training and socialization.
- Active Lifestyle Vital: Dogo Argentinos necessitate ample physical and mental exercise. Engaging in daily walks, playtime, and stimulating activities is crucial to ensure their happiness and good behavior.
- Importance of Socialization: Early socialization with both other dogs and people is of utmost importance for Dogo Argentinos. This helps them develop proper manners and prevents potential aggression issues.
- Responsible Ownership is Key: Owning a Dogo Argentino entails a significant commitment. Responsible ownership includes providing them with proper training, socialization, and healthcare.
Dogo Argentino Colors
The Dogo Argentino, renowned for its graceful and remarkable appearance, possesses a highly specific color scheme: a pure and untainted white, with very few exceptions. Here is a breakdown of the color characteristics of the Dogo:
Primary Color:
- Pure White: The vast majority of the Dogo Argentino’s fur should be a pristine, snow-white shade, devoid of any other markings or patterns. This immaculate white coat is a defining characteristic of the breed.
Permissible Markings:
- One Dark Patch Near the Eye: According to breed standards, a solitary dark patch around the eye is allowed, as long as it does not exceed 10% of the surface area of the head. This marking can be black, brindle, or even piebald.
- Subtle Ticking: Some Dogos may display faint “ticking” on their bodies, which manifests as small specks of dark pigment scattered throughout the white coat. However, this ticking should be minimal and should not resemble solid patches.
Disqualifying Colors:
- Solid Patches: Any solid patches of color present anywhere on the body, apart from the permitted area near the eye, are considered disqualifying according to breed standards.
- Excessive Ticking: If the ticking becomes overly abundant, resembling larger markings rather than subtle specks, it can also result in disqualification.
Other Pigmentation:
- Skin Pigmentation: Certain Dogos may exhibit dark pigmentation on their skin, which can be visible through their white coat, particularly in mature dogs. This pigmentation is not penalized by breed standards.
- Nose and Eyes: The nose of the Dogo Argentino should be entirely black, while their eyes typically display a dark brown or amber hue.
Are Dogo Argentino Dangerous
The Dogo Argentino is a formidable and robust breed renowned for its faithfulness and protective instincts. Although they can be loving members of a family when properly trained and socialized, their strong hunting drive and protective nature can pose a potential threat if not handled and trained appropriately.
They are generally not aggressive without valid cause, but their size and strength necessitate a confident and experienced owner. Responsible breeding and early socialization play a vital role in ensuring that they become well-adjusted and secure family companions.
It is worth noting that some individuals exploit Dogos in illegal dog fighting activities and train them to be aggressive, which contributes to their perceived danger. Therefore, prospective owners should thoroughly evaluate their ability to meet the requirements of this breed before welcoming a Dogo Argentino into their household.
Dogo Argentino Price
The cost of purchasing a Dogo Argentino puppy from a reputable breeder typically falls within the range of $1,500 to $2,500. However, if you are looking for pedigrees and championed bloodlines, the price can go up to $5,000. It is important to note that the price may vary depending on the location and the breeder you choose.
Keep in mind that larger dogs like the Dogo Argentino require more food and space, which can contribute to the higher price of the puppies. On the bright side, this breed is generally healthy, so unexpected veterinary bills are not a major concern.
Although the initial cost of owning a Dogo Argentino may seem steep, it is definitely worth it when you consider the lifelong companionship and unwavering loyalty they offer.
Dogo Argentino Height in Feet
The mature male Dogo Argentino should have a height ranging from 24½ to 27 inches, whereas the mature female should have a height ranging from 23½ to 25½ inches. The preferred height for males is between 25 and 25½ inches, and for females, it is between 24½ and 25 inches.
Any height exceeding or falling below these limits is considered a disqualification as per the breed standard. In terms of feet, this translates to approximately 2 to 2.5 feet for males and 2 to 2.1 feet for females.
Dogo Argentino Lifespan
The lifespan of a Dogo Argentino can range from 10 to 15 years, and there are several factors that can influence how long they live. These factors include genetics, lifestyle, and size. Genetics play a role in determining the lifespan of a Dogo Argentino, as certain genetic factors can affect their overall health and longevity.
Providing proper care, nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups can also contribute to a longer and healthier life for your Dogo Argentino. Additionally, the size of a Dogo Argentino, which is considered a medium-sized breed, may not have a significant impact on their lifespan.
By following these guidelines and taking good care of your Dogo Argentino, you can help maximize their lifespan and ensure their overall well-being and happiness. It is important to feed them a well-balanced diet suitable for their age and activity level, avoiding overfeeding. Regular exercise, such as daily walks, playtime, and activities like agility training, can help keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Lastly, scheduling regular veterinary check-ups will allow you to monitor their health and address any potential issues early on.
