What is the difference between Dogo Argentinos and Pitbulls?
Dogo Argentinos are larger, with exceptional strength and courage, bred for big game hunting. Despite their power, they are loyal, protective, and make excellent family pets.
Pitbulls, originally bred as work dogs, are known for their loyalty and adaptability. They excel as assistants, in law enforcement, and as therapy dogs, making them versatile companions.
Pitbull Breed Overview
Pitbulls have a fascinating and sometimes misunderstood history. Originally bred in England during the 19th century, these dogs were used for bull-baiting, a brutal activity where dogs would fight bulls in an arena.
When bull-baiting was banned in the mid-1800s, dogfighting became a popular underground activity, leading to their reputation as fighting dogs.
The aim was to test the dog’s strength, agility, and determination, often with dangerous and fatal outcomes. By the early 20th century, Pitbulls had made their way to America, where they found new roles, especially as working dogs for law enforcement. Despite their history, they can be incredibly loving and loyal companions when raised with care.
Dogo Argentino Breed Overview
The Dogo Argentino is a breed with a fascinating history, created by crossing the Cordoba Fighting Dog, Pointer, Bulldog, and Boxer. Developed by Dr. Martinez, the breed was designed for strength, power, and a balanced temperament.
Originating in Argentina, the Cordoba Fighting Dog was later renamed the Dogo Argentino as it gained popularity. The breed was initially used for hunting large game, but over time, it found new roles in search and rescue, police work, and even as a beloved family pet.
Key Differences
Personality / Character
Pitbull
- Reputation:
Often viewed as aggressive, but can also be friendly and have an affectionate nature. - Social dogs:
Typically get along well with people and animals. - Good with children:
Known for being great family pets.
- Intelligent and eager to please:
Makes them trainable and responsive to positive reinforcement. - Pitbulls require early training to ensure they develop well-behaved behavior and avoid aggression.
Dogo Argentino
- Loyal and have a protective nature.
- Strong prey drive: Bred for hunting big game, they have a natural instinct to chase and catch prey.
- Difficult to handle: They may be hard for inexperienced owners to manage without proper training and socialization.
©Ershov_Andrey/Shutterstock.com - Affectionate and devoted to their families, they are protective and form strong bonds.
- Intelligent and trainable, they thrive with clear, structured training.
Training Requirements
Pitbull Training Requirements
- Training is essential for the Pitbull breed due to their strength and potential for aggressive behavior.
- Positive reinforcement is the most effective method to encourage good behavior.
- Building a strong bond with the owner is important, as Pitbulls are intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable.
- It is important to establish boundaries and rules from a young age.
- Consistency and patience are key to helping the dog understand their personality and enforce authority.
- Training should begin as puppies to ensure they are fully developed in terms of behavior and obedience.
- Early training helps prevent any negative traits, especially aggressive behavior.
Dogo Argentino Training Requirements
- Training and socialization are essential for a Dogo Argentino due to their strong personality and prey drive.
- Training should start from a young age to help them become well-behaved in public and in different environments.
- Positive reinforcement, such as praise and rewards, is an effective method for encouraging good behavior.
©petfinder.com - Punishment-based training is counterproductive, especially for breeds with strong instincts like the Dogo Argentino.
- It’s important to introduce the dog to a variety of situations early, making them comfortable in different situations and around strangers and animals.
- Proper socialization ensures the dog grows into a well-adjusted and balanced companion.
Diet and Nutritional Needs
Pitbull Diet and Nutritional Needs:
Pitbulls are a high-energy breed, and their diet is crucial for maintaining their health and vitality. To meet their nutritional needs, they require a high-protein diet, which supports muscle development and helps fuel their active lifestyle.
The right balance of protein and fat serves as the building blocks for energy production and overall health. Generally, Pitbulls need about 30 calories per pound of body weight per day.
For example, a 50-pound Pitbull would typically require around 1,500 calories daily. Since Pitbulls tend to have a high metabolism and are very active, they may require more calories, particularly if their exercise levels increase.
It’s important to monitor their weight and adjust calorie intake to avoid gaining weight or becoming overweight.
Dogo Argentino Diet and Nutritional Needs:
For Dogo Argentinos, a high-quality protein diet is essential, with ingredients like chicken, beef, and whole grains. Adding vegetables and fruits to their meals ensures they get a balanced intake of essential nutrients.
Their daily calorie intake typically ranges between 1,000 to 1,700 calories, depending on their size and activity level. Like Pitbulls, Dogo Argentinos have a high metabolism and require a diet that supports their energy needs.
However, it is crucial to avoid feeding them foods that are high in fat, such as table scraps and processed foods. These foods often contain preservatives or artificial additives that could contribute to obesity.
To ensure optimal health, it’s a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to create a customized diet plan that addresses their specific needs and preferences.
FAQs
How Big Are Argentine Pitbulls?
Argentine Pitbulls are large dogs, typically weighing 80 to 100 pounds and standing 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder. Their short, white coat is easy to maintain with minimal grooming.
Is Dogo Argentino More Powerful Than Pitbull?
The Dogo Argentino is larger and more muscular, giving it an edge in strength, but this can vary between individual dogs. Proper training and handling are essential for both breeds.
How Much Is a Dogo Argentino Pitbull Mix?
The mix costs $1,500 to $2,500, depending on the breeder and health clearances. Early training ensures good behavior in these strong, protective dogs.
