Argentine dogo dog

The Argentine dogo (also known as the Argentinian mastiff) is a hunting dog. The founder of the breed is Antonio Nores Martinez, who developed the first standard in 1928. He had success in breeding a dog that was not only a fearless hunting dog, but also a good family dog, housedog and watchdog.

The first three dogs of this breed were imported to Germany in 1968 by the cynologist Erich Schneider-Lyre. This began the breeding of the dog in Europe at Castle Scheer.

The geneticist Schleger thought the genetic potential of the breed as so valuable that it could improve the breeding of Great Danes. However, this was never implemented.

Description

The Argentine dogo has a shoulder height of up to about sixty-nine centimeters, and is a relatively large domestic dog. He is pure white, but can also exhibit a dark spot in the head region. Though there is no discoloration of the skin, dark, moderately stained pigmentation under the skin (up to about 10% of the head), shall be regarded as a characteristic.

Use

The Argentine dogo was, and is, used in his home as a hunting dog for large game, especially wild boar. It is also used for hunting big game cats. The white coat has been bred into the dogs to keep them in front of a missed target of the hunter.

In his homeland the Argentine dogo hunts in groups, bringing together more than one adult, same-sex dogs. With dogs that are prone to exaggerated aggressive behavior, this is not possible. Good socialization is also a prerequisite in order for dogs of this breed to live together peacefully with other animals and humans.

With patience and by following instructions, the Argentine dogo is suitable for training as a tracking dog or bloodhound; his sense of smell is excellent. The Argentine dogo can also be conducted on the square or in the Agility Dog Sports Tournament, provided attention is paid to their physical and mental constitution.