Dogo Argentino Grooming

The Dogo Argentino's short, smooth white coat makes grooming these big dogs pretty easy--but because of its sheer size, Dogo Argentino grooming can be a bit time-consuming.

The Dogo's coat doesn't shed or tangle much, so it'll only need brushing once or twice a week. Use a bristle brush or grooming glove to go through the coat section by section, moving in the direction of hair growth.

Baths are necessary every 2-3 months, unless of course the dog gets especially dirty or stinky and an "emergency bath" is in order. When bathing your Dogo, be sure to use canine shampoo; because of the breed's white coat, you can use a whitening shampoo--Earthbath and Nature's Miracle are two recommended brands--to give the coat some extra gleam. Also take the time to rinse the shampoo from the coat, as any leftover soap residue will irritate the dog's skin.

And the Dogo's coat is simply too short to sport any hairstyle other than its natural one--so haircuts aren't required at all.

Though it's entirely possible for owners to learn all the Dogo Argentino grooming needs themselves, it's a good idea to take the dog to a professional groomer at least once. The groomer can give your Dogo a nice makeover, and provide tips on how to groom a Dogo Argentino at home.

See below for additional info about caring for your Dogo's teeth, ears, and paws.

In addition to its coat, your Dogo Argentino will need regular maintenance in the following areas:

• Teeth: Just like a human's, Dogo Argentino teeth need regular brushing to reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar, and to minimize that Dogo Argentino bad breath! Brush the dog's teeth 2-3 times per week with a regular toothbrush--but be sure to use canine toothpaste (available at pet stores or online), as the kind made for humans can make dogs sick if they swallow it.
• Ears: If Dogo Argentino ears aren't cleaned periodically, they'll collect dirt, grass, and other debris, and even get infected--which could lead to hearing loss. Clean the dog's ears monthly using canine ear cleaning solution. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions, and always use cotton balls (never Q-Tips!) to wipe out any excess solution.
• Nails: Dogo Argentino nails will click on hard surfaces if they get too long, which means it's time for a trim. Use standard clippers to cut the nails as close to the toes as possible. Make sure not to cut them too short, though! Doing so can cut into the nail's quick (the blood vessel running through it), which will make the nail bleed and be painful.
• Paw Pads: Your Dogo's paw pads can get dry, cracked, and tender--in part because they bear the brunt of the dog's considerable weight. The issue is worse if the dog walks or runs a lot on hot asphalt or snow and ice. Apply canine paw pad moisturizer (again, available at pet stores or online) to the pads weekly to keep them soft, moist, and healthy.