FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the cdac?

The Canadian Dogo Argentino Club (CDAC) is the national breed club for the Dogo Argentino in Canada. The CDAC provides information and resources to breeders, owners and exhibitors, as well as creates opportunities to showcase the breed in a safe and responsible manner through Specialties, Meet-the-Breed events and supporting regional initiatives.

Why should i join the CDAC?

The CDAC is where all initiatives and Dogo Argentino specific programs are initiated, approved and implemented in Canada. Membership to the Club allows individuals to participate and get involved in those programs and have an impact. Not only that, Membership dues are used to pay to keep the club online, provide resources and pay for programs we implement. Additionally, Members are given early registration for shows and events, and are also given a discount on entry fees. Coming in early 2020, the Breeder's Membership program will allow responsible and ethical breeders to have a profile on the CDAC website , as well as have access to other benefits.

How does the cdac benefit the breed in canada?

As a rare breed in Canada, there are very few resources for Canadians interested in the Dogo Argentino. The Canadian Dogo Argentino Club has been the exclusive resource for Dogo Argentino enthusiasts for over a decade, and moving forward has a clear plan to increase breed awareness, create tools for regional clubs to establish themselves and provide more methods and opportunities to share breed information and showcase Canadian bred dogs. Additionally, the Club is developing learning tools for individuals who are considering bringing a Dogo Argentino into their home through Dogo Argentino fundamentals courses, and making it easier for future owners to find responsible and ethical breeders through our Breeders Membership program. As the breed gains popularity in Canada, the Club has a strategy to support shelters and rescue organizations when Dogos come into their care.

How can i be active in the club if i am not a breeder?

The CDAC is not just a club for breeders. The goal is to create a club that welcomes all owners, exhibitors and enthusiasts who have demonstrated an interest in the breed in Canada. In fact, most current CDAC members are not breeders. There are a lot of great ways to get involved: there are various committees in works, including but not limited to Marketing & Fundraising and Event Planning. There are other jobs within the club that do not require an aptitude for breeding; including filling out applications, researching regulatory requirements, helping plan travel arrangements for incoming judges and attendees, sourcing products for merchandise, etc. There is a lot to do, and the Club can always use more hands. There are many ways to make a difference in the Dogo Argentino community that does not necessarily include breeding, showing or training dogs. If you're still not sure, please ask!

Are Dogo argentinos good family pets?

Dogos are generally happy dogs. They are event tempered, tolerant and extremely loving with their family. It is remarkable how a breed with such fierce tenacity can be so sensitive with regards to their family members. However, they are a breed that does require an experienced home and are not suited for first time dog owners. They are a strong willed hunting breed, they require high levels of physical and mental stimulation and a profound respect for what this breed is capable of doing. With an outlet to fulfill their prey and defensive drive, strong boundaries and setting both the dog and your family up for success, a Dogo can be a very fulfilling family pet.

Are dogos good with strangers?

A well bred, stable Dogo should not be human aggressive and should be tolerant of strangers. However, a lot of this still relies on appropriate socialization and training, and the leg work you are prepared to put into your puppy and your dog. Your Dogo will also go through developmental phases where they are less tolerant. Do not give up. It is imperative you have a training plan in mind, and if necessary, are prepared to employ a professional to assist you when times get tough. If you are a family who requires a dog who is social and friendly with people, ensure you find a breeder who will help select a puppy with a temperament that is suitable to your lifestyle.

Are Dogo Argentinos good at dog parks?

Dog parks are not a good fit for Dogos, especially adult Dogos.

What are some common health problems to be aware of?

Dogo Argentino suffer from pigment related deafness. The same genes that give them their brilliant white coat are responsible for total or bilateral deafness in approximately 10% of Dogos. All responsible breeders do Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) testing on puppies at 6 weeks of age. Additionally, some dogs from suffer from allergies and sensitive skin issues. Like most large breeds, hip and elbow dysplasia are fairly common. Risks are minimized through health testing breeding stock, selective breeding and responsible puppy raising.

Can Dogo ARGENTINOS HAVE SPOTS?

There are two types of spots:

Spots are the dogs skin are common and tend to show up more over time. Often, people don't realize how spotted their dogs skin is until they bath the dog and see all the spots. Sometimes, if the dog's coat is thin, you will see pigment through the fur, but most times they are invisible on the dog's belly and legs.

Spots in the dogs' coat do happen, and can show up as either large patches or ticking (tiny specs) in the fur. The standard for the Dogo allows for one spot on the head, not to exceed 10% of the surface area, however any spots in the dog's coat past the head are not standard. This does not mean the dog is not a purebred, it is just a disqualifying physical trait. Responsible breeders place these puppies in companion or working homes, but they are are not candidates for conformation showing or breeding homes.

can dogo Argentino have blue eyes?

Some Dogos are born with blue eyes, or partially blue eyes. This can be a sign of deafness, but not always. While pretty, they are not correct and puppies with blue eyes are not candidates for conformation showing or breeding programs.

do dogos require a lot of exercise?

While there are exceptions, and lazy dogs do happen, Dogos definitely need a lot of physical and mental stimulation. You will need to find a way to keep your dog's need to work fulfilled. Daily exercise is a must, but also mental exercises are recommended and Dogos have shown success in several dog sports. Working dogs need a job, so if you're not going to hunt with your Dogo, you need to get them an outlet or you may find yourself with a troublemaker.