5 Pros and Cons of Owning a Dogo Argentino

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

dogo argentino
thereseb87/Pixabay

The Dogo Argentino, also known as the Argentine Mastiff, is a muscular, robust breed famous for its striking white coat and strength. Originally bred in the 1920s for big-game hunting, the breed now excels in diverse roles like search and rescue, police work, and being a devoted family pet. Though affectionate and loyal, they require skilled handling due to their high energy levels, prey drive, and protective instincts. Understanding both the advantages and challenges of owning this breed is crucial to determining if they align with your lifestyle.

A Loyal Guardian and Family Protector

dogo argentino
Laetitia BOUMERAOU/Pixabay

Dogo Argentinos form close bonds with their families and are natural protectors. Their strong guarding instincts make them excellent watchdogs, ensuring the household’s safety. This breed thrives on companionship and prefers being included as a part of the family. When properly socialized, they get along well with children and show patience and affection. Their alertness and protective nature will provide peace of mind both at home and during outdoor activities.

Intelligent and Quick Learners

dogo argentino
Ricardo Martins from Gent, Belgium, CC BY 2.0/Wikimedia Commons

Dogo Argentinos are intelligent, fast learners who excel in activities like agility, obedience, and scent work. Their eagerness to please their owner makes training a rewarding experience. This breed’s versatility also allows them to thrive in roles such as hunting or search and rescue. However, to prevent boredom, training sessions need to be engaging and consistent. Proper mental stimulation ensures that they become reliable, well-behaved companions.

Low-Maintenance Grooming Routine

dogo argentino
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Their short, smooth coats are easy to care for, requiring only weekly brushing with a soft bristle or rubber brush to control shedding. Dogo Argentinos don’t have a strong odor, making grooming less demanding than for many other breeds. This low-maintenance care routine is convenient for busy owners. Regular grooming also strengthens the bond between you and your pet, making it a pleasant routine for both.

Energetic and Adventurous Partner

dogo argentino
ToeJammedInDoor/Reddit

If you lead an active lifestyle, the Dogo Argentino makes a great companion for outdoor adventures. They thrive in activities like hiking, running, or games like fetch. They also excel in strength-based sports like weight-pulling competitions. Regular exercise is essential for their physical and mental well-being, preventing boredom and destructive behavior. If you love outdoor activities, the Dogo will add excitement and motivation to your experiences.

Affectionate with Family

dogo argentino
Wilfried Santer/Pixabay

Despite their imposing appearance, Dogo Argentinos are affectionate with their families. They enjoy close interactions and form deep emotional bonds with their owners. This breed thrives on companionship and craves attention and engagement from family members. Their combination of loyalty, protectiveness, and affection makes them excellent family pets, provided they receive the attention they need.

Demands an Experienced and Confident Owner

dogo argentino
Wilfried Santer/Pixabay

This breed is not for first-time dog owners. Handling a strong-willed and powerful Dogo requires experience. Without consistent and firm leadership, managing their behavior can become challenging. A confident owner who is well-versed in positive reinforcement training is crucial. Novice owners should be prepared to dedicate time to socialization and training to ensure the dog becomes a well-mannered companion.

High Prey Drive Can Be Challenging

Dogo Argentino
Freestocks.org/Pexels

Known for their hunting background, Dogo Argentinos possess a strong prey drive. Even with early socialization, this trait can make them less compatible with smaller pets like cats or rabbits. Close supervision is necessary when introducing your dog to other animals. Off-leash activities should be restricted to controlled environments to prevent them from acting on their instinct to chase. If you have other pets, careful introductions and ongoing training are essential.

Susceptible to Sunburn and Skin Sensitivities

dogo argentino
Helicopter_plant_mom/Reddit

Due to their short, light-colored coats, Dogo Argentinos are prone to sunburn. They need protection from prolonged exposure to sunlight, especially during warmer months. Pet-safe sunscreen or protective clothing can help protect their skin. If you frequently engage in outdoor activities, it’s crucial to monitor your time in the sun and ensure proper skin care. Regular veterinary check-ups can help address any skin issues early on.

High Energy Levels Require Daily Exercise

dogo argentino
JokerAndrew/Reddit

This breed has high energy levels and requires at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise each day. Without sufficient physical and mental stimulation, Dogos can become bored, leading to unwanted behaviors such as chewing or barking. They do best in homes with access to a yard where they can run freely. Mental challenges like puzzle toys are also important to keep them engaged. If you cannot meet these exercise demands, a Dogo Argentino may not be the best fit for your home.

Potential Breed Restrictions

dogo argentino
Alyssa walshh/Reddit

Due to misconceptions about their temperament, Dogo Argentinos may be subject to breed-specific legislation (BSL) in some areas. These restrictions could limit your ability to own or travel with a Dogo. It’s important to research local laws before bringing a Dogo into your home. Additionally, owners should be prepared to advocate for their dogs and help change negative perceptions of the breed through responsible ownership and training.

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