Pet Wiki

Dogo Argentino

Also called Argentine Dogo, Argentinian Mastiff

A bold, intelligent dog that is deeply attached to its people and likes being part of family life.

SizeLarge
Weight40 to 45 kg (88 to 99 lb)males 40 to 45 kg, females 40 to 43 kg12
Height60 to 68 cm (24 to 27 in)males 60 to 68 cm, females 60 to 65 cm13
Lifespan10 to 12 years2
CoatShort
OriginArgentina, in the province of Córdoba.12
GroupPinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs (FCI group 2)
Recognised breedShort profile
devoted to family
brave and steady
athletic
13

Personality what they are like

A bold, intelligent dog that is deeply attached to its people and likes being part of family life. It naturally tells friends from strangers, so it benefits from early training and plenty of socialisation.13

Coat and looks how to spot one

short

A muscular, athletic dog with a smooth, even coat about 1.5 to 2 cm long that lies close to the body.13

Colourswhitewhite with one dark patch on the head13

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Dogo Argentino. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
  • Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

An athletic hunting breed that needs regular vigorous exercise and a job or activity to keep it busy.43

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short white coat is easy to keep; a weekly brush is usually enough.14

Home where they are happiest

Best with an experienced owner and a secure home; note that some countries restrict ownership of the breed.2

Company who they like around

Thrives on company and inclusion in household routines rather than being left alone for long stretches.3

The story where it all began

Dr Antonio Nores Martínez began shaping the breed in Córdoba in the late 1920s, crossing the local Old Fighting Dog of Córdoba with breeds such as bulldogs, bull terriers, Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds. His aim was a team hunter for wild boar and puma that would also guard the home. After his death his brother Agustín carried on promoting the breed abroad.132

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    The standard describes the Dogo as a silent hunter that does not bark while following a trail.1

  2. 2

    Argentina's kennel club accepted the breed in 1964, nine years before FCI recognition.3

  3. 3

    A single dark patch on the head is allowed as long as it covers no more than about a tenth of the head.1

  4. 4

    Besides hunting, the breed has been trained for police and military work.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Dogo Argentino' translates to 'Argentine Mastiff' and originates from Argentina, where it was created by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez in the province of Cordoba.5

Name ideas for your new friend

CórdobaBlancoValienteLunaTangoSolAmigoChispaRayoEstrellaFuegoPuma

A day in the life told by a Dogo Argentino

I wake to the smell of coffee and my human's voice. I stretch my big white body and wag my tail. Breakfast comes, then a long walk where I sniff every tree and meet a friendly neighbor. I guard the yard from a squirrel, but my human calls me inside for a cuddle. I rest my head on their lap, happy to be part of the family. Later, I chase a ball in the park and zoom around with joy. At night, I curl up at their feet, ready for tomorrow's adventures.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 292, Group 2, Section 2.1 Molossian, Dogue type; standard dated 02.08.2012. Recognised by the FCI in 1973.1
UKC
Guardian Dog Group; recognised 1 January 2001.3
AKC
Listed as an AKC breed.4

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Dogo Argentino, and at what times?

Adult Dogo Argentinos should be fed at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Exact times depend on your schedule, so ask your vet for a routine that suits your dog. Pet Wiki's starting plan is to feed twice daily, but always follow the food label and your vet's advice.6 Pet Wiki plan

What should a Dogo Argentino eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, as listed by the ASPCA. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.7

How often should I bathe a Dogo Argentino?

Bathing every eight weeks is a good starting point, as suggested by Pet Wiki's plan. The ASPCA recommends at least once every three months, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid overbathing to keep the coat healthy.8 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Dogo Argentino need brushing?

A weekly brush is enough for the Dogo Argentino's short, smooth coat, as noted in the breed facts and Pet Wiki's plan. This removes loose hair and keeps the coat shiny. Brushing more often is fine if your dog enjoys it.14 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Dogo Argentino's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every four weeks or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor, as per Pet Wiki's plan. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part inside). If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.8 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Dogo Argentino need?

This athletic breed needs daily vigorous exercise and a job or activity to stay happy. Pet Wiki's plan suggests daily walks and play, but they thrive on more structured activities like running or agility. An experienced owner can provide the physical and mental stimulation they need.43 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Dogo Argentino's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth at least two to three times a week, ideally daily, using dog toothpaste only. Check ears weekly for moisture or dirt, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture, and dry them gently. Never push anything into the ear canal. Pet Wiki's plan suggests ear checks every seven days.8 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Dogo Argentino live?

The Dogo Argentino typically lives between 10 and 12 years. With good care, regular vet checkups, and a healthy lifestyle, they can enjoy a full lifespan. Senior years usually start around age seven.2 Pet Wiki plan

Is a Dogo Argentino good with children and other pets?

This breed is deeply attached to its family and can be wonderful with children when properly socialised from an early age. They naturally distinguish friends from strangers, so early training and positive introductions to other pets are important. Always supervise interactions and consult a good breeder for specific advice.13

Can a Dogo Argentino be left alone?

Dogo Argentinos thrive on company and being part of household routines, so they are not suited to being left alone for long periods. They need an owner who can include them in daily activities. If left alone too much, they may become anxious or destructive.3

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. FCI Standard no. 292: Dogo Argentino fci.beused for recognition, origin, size, coat, colour, temperament, history
  2. Wikipedia: Dogo Argentino en.wikipedia.orgused for lifespan, weight range, history, uses (secondary)
  3. UKC: Dogo Argentino breed standard ukcdogs.comused for recognition, height, temperament, history
  4. AKC: Dogo Argentino akc.orgused for coat, purpose, recognition
  5. fci.be fci.be
  6. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  8. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.