Working group

Dogo Argentino

A powerful white big-game hunter — loyal, courageous and a job for experts.

The Dogo Argentino is a muscular white mastiff-type dog bred to hunt boar and puma in packs. It is affectionate with its family, but its strength, prey drive and frequent dog aggression make it suitable only for experienced owners.

Height
24–26.5 in61–67 cm
Weight
80–100 lb36–45 kg
Life expectancy
9–15 years
Size
Large
Group
Working
Origin
Córdoba, Argentina

Coat: Short, smooth, glossy coat. Colours: White (a small dark patch on the head is allowed).

At a glance

Exercise Requirement4.0 / 5
20-30 min gentle walk2+ hours intense stamina
Indoor "Off-Switch"3.5 / 5
Restless / constantly searching for actionInstantly curls up and relaxes indoors
Trainability3.0 / 5
Strong independent thinkerEager biddable student
Mental Stimulation3.5 / 5
Content with routineNeeds a job or creates mischief
Affection Level4.0 / 5
Polite distanceConstant lap snuggler
Stranger Friendliness2.0 / 5
Naturally aloof / watchfulGreets every stranger as best friend
Child Patience & Safety3.0 / 5
Prefers quiet adultsRemarkably sturdy & patient
Other Dog Friendliness1.5 / 5
Strong solo-dog preferenceLoves pack play and multi-dog homes
Prey Drive5.0 / 5
Ignores crittersHigh pursuit instinct / fence chaser
Vocalization & Barking2.0 / 5
Nearly mute / quietWatchful alarm barker or howler
Shedding Level3.0 / 5
Minimal to non-sheddingHeavy year-round fur shedding
Grooming Burden1.0 / 5
Wash & wear coatDaily brushing + salon visits
Drool Tendency2.0 / 5
Dry-mouthedRequires dedicated slobber towels
Apartment Suitability2.0 / 5
Needs acreage or private runThrives in urban elevator apartments
Beginner Friendliness1.0 / 5
Demands experienced handlerIdeal forgiving companion for first-timers
Owner Demand Level4.5 / 5
Very forgiving for novicesRequires skilled firm handling

Ratings describe typical dogs of the breed on a 1–5 scale. Individual dogs vary with lines, upbringing and training.

Temperament

Dogos are loyal, cheerful and affectionate with their people, and many love physical contact. They are confident and protective, making effective guardians.

They were bred for tenacity against dangerous game, so they have high prey drive and often low tolerance for other dogs. Thorough socialisation, consistent training and secure containment are essential, and the breed is banned or restricted in several countries.

Living with a Dogo Argentino

Exercise

Needs an hour or more of vigorous daily exercise with training and play; excellent for experienced sport and working homes.

Grooming

Minimal: weekly brushing and nail care. Pale skin sunburns easily, so limit strong sun exposure.

Training

Essential from puppyhood. Consistent, reward-based training and lifelong socialisation with people and dogs are required.

Kids & other pets

Affectionate with their own family, but supervision is essential around children and visitors. Usually best as the only dog.

Time alone

Tolerates moderate alone time if well exercised, but needs very secure fencing and no access to small animals.

Home fit

Best suited to a house with secure outdoor space; apartment living is hard on this breed and its neighbours.

Is a Dogo Argentino right for you?

Take the Breed Fit quiz to see how a Dogo Argentino matches your home, schedule and tolerance for shedding, barking and exercise — or find out which breed matches your personality with Dogsona.

Take the Breed Fit quizTry Dogsona →

Health

With good breeding and care, a Dogo Argentino typically lives 9–15 years. These are the conditions most associated with the breed — not a prediction for any individual dog.

  • Congenital deafness

    Linked to the white coat; every puppy should be BAER tested.

  • Hip dysplasia

    Screened parents reduce the risk of joint disease.

  • Skin allergies and sunburn

    Pale, thin skin is prone to allergies and sun damage.

  • Hypothyroidism

    An underactive thyroid; managed with daily medication.

Ask a breeder for

  • BAER hearing test
  • Hip and elbow evaluation
  • Cardiac examination

Sources: OFA CHIC breed requirements: Dogo Argentino; Dogo Argentino Club of America. This is general information, not veterinary advice — talk to your vet about your own dog.

Cost to own

After the first year, expect roughly $1,500–$3,000 a year for food, routine vet care, preventives, insurance and supplies (US estimate).

  • Food, medication and anaesthesia are dosed by weight, so every vet visit costs more for a big dog.
  • Pet insurance for a puppy typically runs $30–$60 a month; premiums rise with age and breed risk.
See the full first-year cost breakdown →

History

Brothers Antonio and Agustín Nores Martínez began developing the breed in Córdoba in the 1920s from the Cordoba fighting dog, crossed with Great Danes, Boxers, Pointers, Great Pyrenees and others. The goal was a pack hunter for wild boar and puma that would also guard the home.

The Dogo was recognised in Argentina in 1964 and by the FCI in 1973. The AKC recognised it in 2020. It is also used in search-and-rescue and police work.

Did you know?

  • The Dogo was developed by two brothers, one of whom was a surgeon.
  • It is banned or restricted in countries including the United Kingdom.
  • Dogos hunt in packs, with some dogs trailing by scent and others catching and holding the quarry.

Library guides for Dogo Argentino owners

Similar breeds

Frequently asked questions

Are Dogo Argentinos good family dogs?
Only for experienced owners. They are loyal and affectionate, but powerful and often dog-aggressive.
Are Dogos legal everywhere?
No. They are banned or restricted in some countries and municipalities; check local laws first.
Do Dogo Argentinos shed?
Moderately. Their short coat is easy to care for.