Dogo Argentino Care: Training, Hearing and Health
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By Dr Duncan Houston
The Dogo Argentino is a strong, athletic dog developed for hunting. Its appearance and physical ability should be considered alongside the practical demands of training, safe management and lifelong health care.
Quick Answer
Dogos need secure exercise, patient reward-based training and owners who can safely manage a powerful dog. Formal BAER hearing testing is important because hearing loss in one ear may be missed at home. Review hip and cardiac screening, monitor skin and movement, and learn the emergency signs of bloat.
Choose the individual, then plan the household
The AKC breed profile describes the Dogo's Argentine hunting background. Chasing interest and reactions to unfamiliar dogs vary, so do not assume socialisation guarantees compatibility with smaller pets. Use careful introductions, supervision and reliable separation.
Before committing, check current local ownership, housing and insurance requirements with the relevant authorities or providers. Plan secure gates, safe visitor access and suitable transport. Do not encourage threatening displays or rely on a dog's judgement about who needs “protecting”.
Hearing deserves a proper test
The Dogo Argentino Club of America's health programme includes BAER testing for congenital deafness, hip evaluation and cardiac assessment, with additional screening options. Ask to see the actual results.
Merck explains that one-sided deafness may escape casual observation. Responding to a clap does not prove normal hearing in both ears. A dog with hearing loss can still learn using visual cues and positive reinforcement, with secure leads and enclosures supporting safety. Approach predictably rather than startling a sleeping dog.
A practical activity and care plan
- Teach loose-lead walking, recall, leaving objects, calm greetings and comfortable handling.
- Use short successful sessions and increase distractions gradually. AVSAB recommends reward-based training.
- Build fitness through suitable walks, sniffing and play. Avoid forced running or heavy strength work in growing dogs.
- Allow recovery and sleep. More exhaustion is not a reliable treatment for fear, frustration or biting.
- Feed a complete life-stage diet, measure portions and maintain lean body condition.
Brush the short coat regularly, bathe when needed and maintain nails and daily toothbrushing. Check ears rather than automatically cleaning weekly. Lightly pigmented or sparsely haired skin may need extra sun protection: prioritise shade and discuss pet-safe products with your vet rather than using human products indiscriminately.
Health signs and next steps
| Change | Action |
|---|---|
| Limping, stiffness or reduced stamina | Stop strenuous activity and arrange assessment. |
| Persistent itching, redness or sores | Investigate parasites, infection, allergy or other causes rather than assuming a white-coat problem. |
| New failure to respond to sound | Arrange ear and hearing assessment; acquired problems are also possible. |
| Unproductive retching, abdominal swelling, weakness or collapse | Seek emergency care immediately. |
The ACVS guidance on GDV explains preventive gastropexy for dogs at increased risk. Meal management cannot eliminate bloat risk. Breathing difficulty, major injury or severe distress also requires urgent care.
Common mistakes include training through pain, using human painkillers, assuming a CHIC number means every result was normal, and selecting a dog only for its appearance or guarding reputation. Maintain regular veterinary reviews and preventive treatment suited to local exposure.
Frequently asked questions
Can a deaf Dogo be trained?
Yes. Visual signals, reward-based teaching and reliable safety arrangements can support a good quality of life.
Does hearing a noise rule out deafness?
No. Hearing in one ear can mask loss in the other; BAER assesses the ears separately.
How much exercise is enough?
Use age, fitness, health and recovery to guide activity rather than a universal minute target.
Are Dogos automatically good family protectors?
No. Temperament varies, and safe family life depends on management, training and realistic expectations.
Thoughtful selection and clear daily routines matter as much as physical exercise.
ASK A VET™ supports informed, compassionate care. Your veterinarian can help interpret your Dogo's hearing and health records and plan appropriate follow-up.
