The Dogo Argentino is, without a doubt, the most popular of the breeds originating in Argentina (and the only one that managed to survive to this day). Historically it was used as a hunting dog, mainly for hunting wild boar, but unfortunately it was also used in dog fights. Later, they became popular as pets throughout the American continent.
As you can see, it is a large-sized dog, strong, with an imposing appearance, well-developed muscles and a powerful jaw. Due to these morphological characteristics, it is classified as a potentially dangerous dog in Argentina. And although the physical appearance does not condition the dog to show aggressive behavior, we must be clear that the Argentine Dogo needs to receive due attention in its training, socialization and he alth to maintain its good physical and mental state.
In this new article on our site, we suggest you learn about the most common diseases of the Argentine dogo, to learn how to prevent and recognize them in your best friend. Keep reading!
Congenital deafness in the Argentine dogo
One of the biggest concerns of passionate Argentine Dogo owners is their genetic predisposition to the development of congenital deafness Today, we know that congenital deafness is related to a certain group of recessive genes that cause a deficiency in the blood supply and poor oxygenation of the cochlea (formerly known as "snail") and the organ of Corti. Prolonged lack of oxygen causes irreversible damage to nerve cells that transmit neural impulses and allow animals to interpret sounds (that is, listen).
These two structures are key elements in the mechanism of hearing in dogs. Not being properly oxygenated, your nerve cells deteriorate and die. As a consequence, the animal suffers an accelerated loss of its sense of hearing, developing deafness at a very early age.
One of the theories about hereditary deafness in the Argentine Dogo refers to the crosses made to create this breed. To increase their strength and physical resistance, numerous crosses were made with English bull terriers. Currently, it is estimated that 18% of bull terriers are born with hearing problems and may develop deafness, being among the most frequent diseases in this breed. So the Argentine Dogo could have inherited this vulnerability from its ancestors.
Unfortunately, congenital deafness is a pathology that still does not have a definitive cure. Deaf dogs need specific care and should make regular visits to the vet to monitor the evolution of this condition.
Congenital deafness and white fur
Genetic predisposition to congenital deafness was observed not only in the Argentine Dogo, but also in more than 80 canine and feline breeds white-haired It is assumed that the presence of the group of genes mentioned above would lead to atrophy of the melanoblasts, preventing them from developing and forming melanocytes, the cells that carry melanin and allow pigmentation. Therefore, the lack of pigmentation in the inner ear would be closely related to poor oxygenation of nerve cells and congenital deafness in the Argentine dogo.
We must emphasize that the Dogo Argentino is a totally white dog and not albino. Their skin and hair are completely white thanks to a dominant genetic characteristic of this breed. On the other hand, albinism can appear in any species, being a congenital and hereditary condition derived from a recessive genetic mutation that affects a really small number of animals. Albino dogs are vulnerable to numerous biological deficiencies and require very special care.
Skin diseases in the Argentine dogo
In most dogs, including many white-coated dogs, we can observe the pigmentation of their skin by gently separating it from the coat. This does not happen in the Argentine dogo, whose skin is totally white, as well as its coat. Unfortunately, this characteristic makes the breed vulnerable to a wide range of skin problems, including fungal, viral and bacterial dermatitis, in addition to canine demodexia.
canine demodexia, also known as red mange, is a skin pathology caused by the Demodex sp mite. These mites usually settle inside the hair follicles of the skin of dogs. Its presence is reasonably common among domestic animals, but its excessive multiplication can cause demodexia. Generally, this abnormal development of Demodex sp is related to an immune deficiency.
Affected animals show visible symptoms such as intense itching, excessive shedding and noticeable inflammation of their skinWhen these primary disorders are not treated quickly, the picture can evolve into a severe infection. For this reason, do not hesitate to consult your trusted veterinarian immediately when you observe any alteration in the skin or coat of your Argentine Dogo.
Also, remember to talk to the professional to learn about a possible specific diet and about the use of natural supplements to prevent possible skin diseases in these dogs. With proper preventative medicine, your Bulldog can maintain the beauty and good he alth of its skin and coat.
Sunburn
Excessive sun exposure is dangerous for all dogs, just as it is for all humans, regardless of color, age or sex. However, Albino or totally white animals are especially vulnerable to the sun's rays.
Dogo Argentino, due to its white skin, is highly predisposed to sunburn, as well as developing carcinomas in its cells cutaneous. Although they originate from temperate climates with sunny summers, these dogs should be moderately exposed to solar radiation. In addition, they require special care with their skin, especially in hotter climates, and regular visits to the vet to control the appearance of any stain, freckle or abnormal sign on their skin.
Hip dysplasia in the Argentine dogo
Dogo Argentino is not commonly found on lists of dogs prone to hip dysplasia. However, being a large dog that experiences accelerated growth, the Argentine Dogo can also suffer from this degenerative disease. Therefore, remember to offer your Dogo Argentino a balanced diet and moderate but regular physical activity.
Is the Argentine Dogo a he althy dog?
The Dogo Argentino is a strong and resistant dog, but it has a notable genetic predisposition to developing a significant number of diseases. Does this mean that the Argentine Dogo is not a he althy dog? Not at all… The he alth of a Dogo Argentino, as well as of any dog, whether mixed-race or of a defined breed, will depend fundamentally on the preventive medicine, on the care and of genetics.
Therefore, to keep your Argentine dogo beautiful, he althy and balanced, remember to make vet visits every 6 months, respect his letter periodic vaccination and deworming from their first weeks of life. In addition to offering you a balanced diet, regular physical exercises and reinforced hygiene habits that allow you to improve your physical and mental resistance. And to stimulate their cognitive, emotional and social capacity, invest in early socialization and proper training.
Don't forget that the Argentine Dogo may show character changes in the event of ailments at any stage, whether we are talking about an adult dog or a puppy Argentine Dogo.
