Argentine Dogo

The Dogo Argentino, also known as the Argentine Mastiff or Dogo Argentino, is a large, muscular dog breed that was bred in the 1920s by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez. The breed is a cross between a Mastiff, Bulldog, Bull Terrier, Boxer, and Pointer. It was intended as a powerful hunting and guard dog, and was used to hunt wild boar and pumas. Due to poor training by some owners, the breed has a bad reputation and is considered dangerous in some countries.

Basic features

  • Size: large dogs
  • Weight: 40-45 kg
  • Height: 60-68 cm
  • Color: white, may have a dark spot on the head
  • Hair length: short
  • Hair loss: moderate
  • Lifespan: 10-12 years
  • Living space: adapts to life in the house, requires daily activity
  • Litter size: 4-8 puppies

Character and character

The Shih Tzu is a lively, dignified and alert dog that loves human company and cuddling. It is very intelligent, but also stubborn, so it requires patient training. It is not a good watchdog because it is friendly to strangers, but it will bark to warn of unusual events. Due to its small size and agility, it is suitable for playing and monitoring family activities.

  • Happy and playful
  • Loves cuddling and socializing with people
  • Friendly to strangers, not aggressive
  • Intelligent but stubborn
  • Likes to sit on laps and seeks attention

Activity

The Shih Tzu needs regular, but short walks and games. He likes to be active, but is not demanding in terms of exercise. He enjoys play and freedom best in a securely fenced yard. Daily activity is necessary for his well-being, but he cannot tolerate long or strenuous activities.

  • Needs regular, but short walks
  • He loves family games and chasing toys.
  • Likes to run in a safe, fenced area
  • Easily adapts to a less active lifestyle
  • Can't stand boredom

Care and coat

The Shih Tzu has a long, dense, slightly wavy coat that requires regular grooming. Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting and remove dirt. Since the hair grows around the eyes and ears, special care is needed to maintain these areas to prevent inflammation. Bathing is recommended once a week, with complete drying to prevent colds.

  • Long and thick coat, demanding to care for
  • Daily brushing to prevent tangles
  • Regularly trimming or tying hair above the eyes
  • Urgent maintenance of ear cleanliness
  • Bathing once a week with a gentle shampoo

Health

The Shih Tzu is a breed with some genetic health issues, so regular veterinary monitoring is important. Breathing problems, eye problems, and weight problems are common. It is important to purchase a dog from a reputable breeder with healthy parents.

  • Tendency to choke and snore
  • Eye problems (squint, inflammation)
  • Ear and skin problems
  • Possible spinal problems due to a short back
  • Caution when feeding due to a tendency to obesity

Education and learning

Training a Shih Tzu requires patience and perseverance, as these dogs are stubborn. They learn quickly if motivated by rewards, but do not tolerate rudeness. Early socialization is necessary to prevent fear or excessive reticence.

  • Intelligent but stubborn
  • They learn best with positive motivation.
  • They do not tolerate physical punishment.
  • They need early socialization
  • They require consistency and patience

Living area

The Shih Tzu is a family dog that cannot stand living outside. It is best suited to living in an apartment or house with its family. In the summer, it needs protection from the heat and the opportunity to retreat to the shade. It is not suitable for life on a chain or in a kennel.

  • Suitable for an apartment or house
  • Not suitable for living outside
  • Needs protection from heat
  • Wants to be close to family
  • Can't stand loneliness

Is it suitable for your family?

The Shih Tzu is a great family dog for less active people, the elderly, and families with older children who understand its fragility. It is not suitable for unsupervised young children or for people without experience with small, stubborn dogs.

✅ Suitable for families with older children, less active people and older owners.
❌ Not suitable for families with small, unsupervised children or inexperienced owners.

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