Other Names- Dogo Argentino, Argentinian Mastiff.

Height- average height for males and females (24-27 inches).

Weight- average weight for males and females (80-100 pounds)

Life Expectancy- 10 to 12 years.

Group- Mastiff

Recognized By- APRI(American Pet Registry Inc.), ACR(American Canine Registry), NKC(National Kennel Club), ACA(American Canine Association), FCI(Federation Cynologique Internationale).

Originated in Argentina in the 1920's by a man named Antonio Nores Martinez. His idea was to develop a breed that could not only be a pet and watchdog, but also a large game hunter. To develop a breed such as this he used the Cordoba Fighting Dog, which is now extinct. He also used the Great Dane, Great pyrenees, Bulldog, Irish wolfhound, Pointer, Dogue De Bordeaux, and the Spanish Mastiff.

The Argentine Dogo has a single white coat. They have a strong muscular body and powerful jaws. The ears can be cropped or left natural. They are just slightly longer than they are tall.

This breed is very tolerant of children and makes a great family pet. They are intelligent dogs and protective and loyal. If they are trained and socialized early, you should have no problems. Remember that were bred to hunt large game. If training and dominance is not established early, this could lead to problems.

The Argentine Dogo will do fine in an apartment or house with average sized yard. They are a breed that needs moderate exercise. They can not be left outside when temperatures are too cold.

The Argentine Dogo is sometimes prone to these problems:

• hip dysplasia
• deafness
• allergies and skin irritations
• heart and thyroid problems

With a single white coat and little or no "doggy" smell, this breed requires very little in lines of grooming. A regular brushing and trimming of the nails is all it takes.