Understanding the Health of Your Dogo Argentino

Quick answer

The Dogo Argentino is a powerful and loyal companion, but like many breeds, it has specific health tendencies that owners should monitor. While they are robust dogs, they are prone to certain conditions ranging from pigment-related deafness and joint issues to skin sensitivities. By focusing on early detection, maintaining a lean body condition, and providing consistent training, you can help your dog lead a comfortable and active life.

Pigment-related deafness

Deafness is a recognised tendency in the breed. Because of their white coat, this condition is well recognised in the breed. Owners often notice this first when their puppy fails to respond to their name, does not react to loud noises, or is difficult to wake up when sleeping. A veterinarian will perform a physical exam and may use a specialized hearing test, known as a BAER test, to confirm the diagnosis. If you suspect your dog has hearing loss, focus on hand signals and vibration-based training methods to ensure their safety.

Hip dysplasia

This is a well recognised condition in the breed. You might notice your dog struggling to rise from a lying position, showing a reluctance to climb stairs, or displaying an unusual gait or limp. Your vet will perform a physical examination to check for joint laxity and confirm the condition using radiographs. Keeping your dog at a lean body weight is the most effective way to reduce the stress on their joints throughout their life.

Hypothyroidism

This condition is a recognised tendency in the breed. You may notice your dog becoming unusually lethargic, gaining weight despite a normal diet, or experiencing changes in their coat quality. A vet will confirm this through blood panels that measure thyroid hormone levels. Once diagnosed, this is typically managed with daily medication, and regular follow-ups are necessary to adjust the dosage as needed.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a recognised tendency in the breed. This condition causes increased pressure within the eye. You might notice your dog squinting, pawing at their eye, or observing that the eye appears cloudy or enlarged. This is a medical emergency. A veterinarian will use a tonometer to measure the pressure inside the eye. Immediate intervention is required to manage pain and attempt to preserve vision.

Laryngeal paralysis

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. It affects the muscles that control the opening of the voice box. Owners often first notice a change in the sound of the dog's bark or a heavy, raspy breathing sound, particularly during exercise or in warm weather. A vet will perform a laryngeal exam, often under light sedation, to observe the movement of the airway. If your dog shows signs of respiratory distress, such as blue-tinged gums or extreme panic, this is an urgent situation requiring immediate veterinary care.

Sunburn and skin issues

Due to their fair skin, both sunburn and general skin issues are recognised tendencies in the breed. You may notice redness, flaking, or crusting on areas with thin hair, such as the bridge of the nose, the belly, or the tips of the ears. A vet will examine the skin to rule out infections or allergies. Prevention is key, which includes limiting sun exposure during peak hours and using pet-safe sunblock on vulnerable areas.