
Dogo Argentino
Male: 40-45 kg, Female: 40-43 kg
Male: 60-68 cm, Female: 60-65 cm
10-12 years
Argentina
About the Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is a masterpiece of canine engineering, developed in the 1920s by Dr. Antonio Nores Martínez in the Córdoba province of Argentina. Created by crossing the now-extinct Fighting Dog of Córdoba with a variety of breeds including the Great Dane, Irish Wolfhound, and Bulldog, the Dogo was designed to be a versatile hunter capable of tracking large game across rugged terrain and holding it until the hunter arrived. This heritage has resulted in a dog of immense strength, agility, and lung capacity, wrapped in a shimmering white coat designed to reflect heat and make the dog easily visible to hunters. Despite their formidable hunting history, the Dogo Argentino is profoundly bonded to its human family. They are known for their 'velcro' personality, often preferring to be in the same room as their owners. They possess a quiet confidence and do not bark unnecessarily, making them excellent guardians. Because of their power and high intelligence, they require consistent, positive leadership and early socialization. In the right home, they are gentle giants who balance their protective instincts with a surprisingly affectionate and playful domestic life.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Dogo Argentino is a vision of balanced power and harmony. The breed standard calls for a 'macromorphic' head with a convex-concave profile, reflecting their unique lineage. Their movement is fluid and effortless, showcasing a powerful reach and drive that suggests they could run for miles without tiring. The Dogo possesses a distinctive 'calm-alert' expression, where their dark, almond-shaped eyes radiate intelligence and courage. What truly sets them apart is their sculptural appearance; every muscle is defined under the short white coat, giving them a majestic, marble-like presence that commands immediate attention from judges and spectators alike.
Bred For
Big game hunting, specifically wild boar and puma, and acting as a steadfast guardian and loyal family companion.
Temperament
Loyal, courageous, protective, and social; they are known for their unwavering devotion to their family and an athletic, stoic nature.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
Congenital pigment-associated (unilateral or bilateral), , , (), and autoimmune thyroiditis.
Grooming Needs
Minimal; requires weekly brushing with a rubber curry comb to remove dead hair and regular ear cleaning to prevent infections.
Living Suitability
Not suited for apartment living. They require a home with a large, securely fenced yard and thrive best in environments where they have plenty of room to move and regular access to outdoor adventures.
Good with Kids
Generally good with children in their own family when raised with them, but due to their size and strength, they are best suited for homes with older children who understand how to respect a large dog.
Good with Other Pets
Can be dominant with other dogs of the same sex and may possess a high prey drive toward smaller pets like cats unless raised with them from a very young age and carefully supervised.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but independent; they require a confident handler who uses positive reinforcement. They are eager to please their primary bond-holder but may test boundaries if training is inconsistent.
Coat & Colours
Short, smooth, and dense; length varies slightly depending on climate.. Entirely white; a single dark spot on the skull (pirata) is permitted but not preferred in show standards.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware that Dogo Argentinos are more likely to experience congenital deafness; ensuring your puppy has had a BAER test is vital for preparation. Their deep chests make them predisposed to Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat), so using slow feeders and avoiding heavy exercise around meal times is a wise precaution. Their short white coat offers little protection against the harsh Australian sun, making them prone to sunburn and potentially skin cancers; providing shade and pet-safe sunscreen is important during outdoor activities. While they are famously stoic, they can be predisposed to skin allergies and sensitivities, which may require a transition to a fresh, hypoallergenic diet. Their high prey drive is a hallmark of the breed, meaning they should always be walked on a lead in unenclosed areas. They are also known for a strong-willed nature, so committing to lifelong training and socialization ensures their protective instincts remain a positive asset rather than a challenge.
Feeding Guide for Your Dogo Argentino
Healthy Weight
40-45 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
800-1350 grams
For a Dogo Argentino, a fresh or raw diet should focus on high-quality muscle meats, edible bones, and organs. For an average 42 kg adult, provide approximately 840g to 1260g of fresh food daily, split into two meals to help mitigate the risk of bloat.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
High-quality, protein-rich diet to support athletic muscle mass. A fresh or raw diet is often preferred to manage potential skin sensitivities and maintain optimal weight.
The ideal diet for a Dogo Argentino centers on lean proteins available from Majestik, such as Kangaroo and Beef, to maintain lean muscle without excessive weight gain. Given their susceptibility to skin allergies, limited-ingredient diets using Majestik's single-protein options can be highly beneficial. Including Omega-3 fatty acids from fish or hemp oil can further support their skin health and short coat luster.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Dogo Argentino Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Dogo Argentino? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
8-10 puppies
Dogo Argentino Owner Feedback
Real experiences and tips from Dogo Argentino owners
Other Large Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.