The history of the origin of the Argentine mastiff, the standard of the exterior, character, description of health, advice on care and training, interesting facts. Price when buying a puppy. Dogo Argentino is the emblem and pride of Argentina. The only breed created in this country, but what a! Majestic, courageous, remarkably muscular, desperately courageous and proud, like Argentina itself! Perhaps the "Argentinean" is the most elegant of all the many variegated mastiffs that exist in the world. The unique white dog, literally mesmerizing with its article, power and grace, is rightfully the national treasure of the South American state, which is considered prestigious and honorable to own. It is no accident that it is customary to present puppies of white Great Danes to ambassadors and heads of friendly states, as a worthy government gift and a symbol of Argentina.
History of the origin of the dogo argentino
This dog is not only the first and so far the only national breed of Argentina, but also a relatively young breed, originating in the Argentine province of Cordoba (in Spanish - Cordoba) in 1925. It was then that very young (at that time they were 17-18 years old) brothers Antonio and Agustin Nores Martinez (Antonio and Agustin Nores Martinez) conceived to create a strong fighting dog with the unique qualities of a hunting dog, a guard and a wonderful companion dog. An animal that combines the qualities of a swift-footed hound with the strength and power of a fighting dog, capable of hunting large game in the most varied conditions of the Argentinean terrain.
In those years, bloody dog fights were extremely popular throughout South America, and therefore it was not a problem to find an animal suitable for starting breeding, it was enough to visit the ring and negotiate with the owners of the animals. The most popular in the ring of those years was the fighting dog of Cordoba or, as it was also called, the "skin ripper", obtained by crossing a Spanish mastiff, an English bulldog, a boxer and an early bull terrier (nowadays the dog of Cordoba has disappeared everywhere). It was with her that the brothers began to select a new breed, in every possible way trying to get rid of the increased aggressiveness and bloodthirstiness of the fighting animal at the first stage, while simultaneously developing hunting instincts.
In 1928, Antonio Nores Martinez outlined in writing the future standard of the Argentine mastiff, the way to obtain which was described by a kind of formula. The so-called “Antonio's formula”, which was the basis for breeding, was a consistent inheritance of qualities from other dogs of various breeds, which it was not without difficulty that it was possible to find in Argentina. In short, Antonio's formula looks like this:
- strength and courage - from the fighting dog of Cordoba;
- fearlessness - from the bull terrier;
- developed chest and tenacity - from a bulldog;
- cheerfulness and softness - from a boxer;
- increased growth - from the Great Dane;
- the power of the jaws - from the Dogue de Bordeaux;
- speed qualities - from the Irish wolfhound;
- hunting instincts and flair - from the English pointer;
- endurance and snow-white color - from a large Pyrenean dog;
- majesty and charisma - from the Spanish mastiff.
The brothers' work on the new breed continued for several decades and finally yielded results. On May 21, 1964, the new Great Dane was recognized by the Kennel Federation of Argentina. The dog received the official name - Dogo Argentino (Argentinean Great Dane).
But only on July 31, 1973, the "Argentinian" received official international recognition of the Federation of Kennel International (FCI). Initially, he was brought into the Molossian group, but then under pressure from the Argentine national club, the breed was classified as a hound. However, now, due to the general weighting of show dogs (with a complete loss of working hunting qualities), "Argentines" are again among the Molossians. But for the current fans of these magnificent beauties, this does not play a big role, only in Argentina itself there are now at least 3,000 individuals of these unique dogs.
In January 1999, the latest edition of the breed standard was published.
Purpose of the Great Dane
As you know, the creator of the breed, Antonio Nores Martinez, pursued the goal of creating not a fighting dog to participate in bloody sports, but a dog-friend, a dog designed to guard a person on a journey through the forest, as well as for hunting. And I must say that he succeeded. The Argentinian does an excellent job with all these functions.
In addition, in the modern world, other functions have been found that are available to the Dogo Argentino. In modern Argentina, these smartest animals serve in the police as search and guard dogs, participate in search and rescue operations of various special structures and even work as guides for blind people. Unfortunately, these excellent hunters and guards are still often used as fighting dogs in bloody battles in the South American and Asian rings.
Distinguished by a balanced and gentle character, these Great Danes are excellent pets and companions of a person who loves nature and travel.
In addition, there has been an increase in interest in the Dogo Argentino as a show dog. And in this there is even a separate direction in the breeding of the breed, where Great Danes become heavier in constitution, losing working qualities.
Description of the external standard for the Dogo Argentino
Dogo Argentino belongs to the group of Molossian dogs, which in itself implies the presence of athletic power and impressive size of the animal. This is a truly large and strong dog, with well-balanced body proportions, with an excellent sports-fit exterior, devoid of excessive weight and gigantism.
The dimensions of an adult male at the withers reach 68 centimeters and weigh up to 45 kg. Females are not much smaller: growth, as a rule, does not exceed 65 centimeters, with a body weight of 36 to 40 kg.
- Head strong and powerful, in proportion to the body, with a massive convex skull. The top of the head is broad. The frontal part is convex-concave (with a distinct hollow between the eyes against the background of well-developed superciliary arches). Stop (transition from forehead to muzzle) smoothed. The muzzle is powerful, elongated. The upper line of the muzzle profile is slightly curved upward, which is a clear breed characteristic. The bridge of the nose is wide, slightly raised. The nose is large, black, with wide nostrils. The lips are close to the jaws, moderately thick, with flecks. The jaws are powerful, with a very strong grip. The teeth are white and large. The canines are large. Straight bite (scissor bite, for example).
- Eyes small, beautifully almond-shaped, set wide apart. The color of the eyes is dark (from hazelnut to dark brown). The expression in the eyes is shrewd and somewhat harsh. It is desirable that the eyelids have black pigmentation.
- Ears "Argentineans" are set high on the sides of the head, rather far from each other (due to the large width of the skull), triangular, erect. They are docked shortly, acquiring a pointed triangular shape. The ears are covered with a smooth and short coat.
- Neck straight, of medium length, very strong, with excellent muscles. The nape is powerful, well defined. Let's say a slight dewlap in the throat area.
- Torso Molossian type, but strong and toned, with a well-developed wide, voluminous chest and a toned belly. Abdomen with well-defined muscle tone. The back is very strong and muscular, which makes the line of the back sloping towards the croup. The croup is strong, muscular, sloping.
- Tail the Great Dane has a saber shape, thick and long. In a calm state, it is lowered down, in an agitated state, it makes whip-like movements from side to side, while running, it continues the line of the back.
- Limbs upright, very strong with a good balance of strong bones and well muscled. Paws are round with large pressed toes. The paw pads are thick and hard.
- Wool short, soft, smooth. The maximum length of the fur does not exceed 2 centimeters. In general, the density and density of the coat depends on the climate. In colder areas, the fur is denser and longer, and an undercoat may form. In tropical climates, the coat of the "Argentinean" becomes thinner (sometimes so much that the skin is visible).
- Color exclusively white (breed color). The presence of a dark or black spot around the eye is acceptable (but not more than 1/10 of the total head area). When judging at the championship, preference is always given to the whiter Great Dane.
The nature of the dogo argentino
The representative of the breed is known in the world, first of all, as a wonderful hunting dog, practically irreplaceable when hunting a large game. He is strong, enduring, courageous, swift in attack and unusually agile and evasive in battle. Even in a single copy, he is easily able to cope with a baker-boar, and a pair of such dogs often overcomes a cougar even before the appearance of a hunter. During the pursuit of game for these Great Danes, there are no obstacles on the terrain that they would not be able to overcome. And it doesn't matter if it is a river or a rainforest, the game will certainly be captured.
In addition to hunting talents, Argentinean mastiffs are known for their unexpectedly benevolent character in relation to even strangers, of course, if they themselves do not provoke the dog to be aggressive or do not try to enter the territory protected by this dog (and he is an excellent watchman). However, there are practically no people willing to enter the territory protected by such a dog. Despite its peaceful reputation, the very exterior of the dog makes a potential violator think about the possible consequences of his insolence.
"Argentinian" just feels great in the role of a pet, especially if the surrounding space allows him to run and frolic (although the breed is not hyperactive, but young Great Danes love sprint races and need energetic games). He enjoys communicating with others, playing with children and other dogs. But from cats, small dogs or animals that can awaken his hunting passion, it is better to isolate the "Argentinean" in order to avoid problems.
Nevertheless, the Dogo Argentino, for all its poise, still has a character prone to the manifestation of leadership. That is why this breed cannot be called a breed of dog for everyone. Only an overbearing owner with experience in working with dogs is able to control such a large and powerful dog.
In general, this is a wonderful dog, which is quite obedient and disciplined. He loves attention to his own person, friendly relations and is capable of showing reciprocal affection. A characteristic detail - this Great Dane loves close contact with the owner, he never lies at his feet - he always lies on the owner's feet, thereby expressing all his dog's love and devotion. As a companion dog, he is just wonderful. No wonder the breed is now gaining unprecedented popularity not only in Argentina, but also in the USA, in the countries of Western and Eastern Europe.
Dogo argentino health
Despite the fact that these animals are an artificially bred breed, there are almost no genetic ailments noted for them. Perhaps the most well-known problem with these dogs at the moment is the birth of completely deaf puppies. According to the data published by the cynological communities of the USA and Germany, the percentage of deaf puppies in the litter "Argentines" is approximately 10%.
Also, veterinarians noted cases of these Great Danes with dysplasia of the elbow and hip joints, a disease often found in representatives of large breeds of dogs. However, no specific statistics on this issue have been recorded.
The life expectancy of Argentine dogs is in the range of 11-14 years, which is considered quite a decent age for an animal of such a rather large size.
Tips for caring for your Great Dane
The dog created by the Nores Martinez brothers was intended for a fairly free and free existence, without enclosures, chains and shackles. That is why the most optimal conditions of detention for an "Argentinean" is life in a securely fenced yard of a country house, or even in a remote countryside with complete freedom of movement. In urban conditions, keeping a moving and rather large-sized mastiff is quite problematic.
When keeping an Argentine dog, do not forget about maintaining its physical shape. He should walk efficiently and for a long time, having the opportunity to run fully. It is also advisable to develop the athletic characteristics of the breed through the use of vests with weights worn on the dog during a walk. Strength training is also possible, associated with the transfer of various heavy objects or special bags filled with sand in the teeth.
In leaving, the "Argentinian" is absolutely not pretentious. Standard skin and coat care applied to Molossian dogs is just what is required of the owner of this dog. As they say, nothing new.
The dog's nutrition should be as high-calorie as possible and fully balanced in all respects, well-saturated with minerals and vitamins. What exactly to feed is up to the owner himself. For example, in South America, the owners offer the "Argentinean" exclusively meat, in Europe, more preference is given to industrial specialized feed.
Interesting Dogo Argentino Facts
In the United States, in the 70s of the XX century, they also tried to use the Argentinean mastiff as a police dog, but this idea was quickly abandoned. Moreover, the reason for the refusal was quite specific. As it was stated in the document justifying the refusal: "The Argentine Great Danes are overly harsh and careless with the victim."
The situation was that the "Argentine" during the arrest of the criminal behaved so harshly that quite ordinary detention often ended with a long hospitalization of the detainee, or even a fatal outcome. And this did not happen at all because the “Argentinean” was disobedient or poorly managed. It's just that this dog, due to the special square structure of the mouth, bites very effectively, and does it very quickly. Moreover, he chooses the place of the bite on his own, no matter how you train him.
At the moment, in the role of a police dog, these Great Danes can only be found in Argentina itself, where the authorities are not too concerned about preserving the health of the criminal.
Price when buying a dogo argentino puppy
Dogo Argentino has long and firmly established itself in Russia, so buying a good thoroughbred puppy is not a problem. Nurseries "Argentines" are available not only in the capital cities, but also on the periphery, reaching the Ural Mountains (Yekaterinburg, Chelyabinsk). In Siberia and the Far East, the breed is still relatively rare, probably due to the difficulty of keeping thermophilic Great Danes in frosty conditions. But, despite all the difficulties, the Argentine mastiffs are gaining more and more popularity for their snowy elegance, fit figure, universal talents and uncommon mind, absence of health problems and good life expectancy. The cost of a puppy-"Argentinean" on average in Russia is 55,000-70000 rubles. Show class puppies can cost significantly more.
More informative information about the Dogo Argentino in this video:
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