The Brazilian dogo is a Molosser-type dog that is a mix between boxer and bull terrier. If is affectionate and even tempered towards family members if trained well. The dog is loyal and courageous and always ready to sacrifice its life for the protection of its family.
The dog loves his family children but same thing cannot be said about other neighbor’s kid. It is important to start its socialization lesson early so that you can have a steady minded dog inside home. The guarding instinct comes naturally in this dog and you do not have to provide training for it.
However introduce him to as many good people as you can so that the dog can differentiate between normal behavior and suspicious behavior. The dog is eager to please and it loves to work alongside humans. It can master over many skills including herding and hunting. Despite being massive, the dog excels in athletic activities including running and jumping over hurdles.
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Origin
The Brazilian dogo was developed in 19th century in Brazil. As stated above, the dog is a mix between boxer and bull terrier. Have a look at its parent to know in-depth about its origin. The boxer breed was developed in Germany in 18th century. It is said that the dog is descendant of mastiff-type of breed. It was used to bait bulls as well for dog fighting. When these sports became illegal, the dog was used for hunting wild animals as well as for guarding purpose.
The bull-terrier was originated in England in 1880s. The primary use of the dog was for fighting. After then it was used for guarding, herding and for hunting small animals like rodents, rats, hare etc.
Brazilian Dogo Characteristics & Information
- The dog belongs to Brazil and is particularly a guard dog
- This breed is not recognized by any major kennel club
- The dog is energetic and fairly active inside home. It needs to thrive in home
- It is affectionate, loyal, protective and alert dog
- The average lifespan of this breed is 13 years
- The dog stands at a height of 54 – 60 cm
- It weighs around 23 – 39 kg
- It is not a hypoallergenic breed
- It sheds averagely throughout the year
- The grooming needs of the dog are easy and simple as it has short coat
- The dog comes mostly in white color. But other colors are also acceptable
- The average price of the dog is $1000-$1200
- This breed is rare in the world. No important kennel club has yet registered this breed
- The dog needs great deal of exercise on daily basis
- It is suitable breed for kids. Toddlers should never be left alone with the dog without parents’ supervision
- The dog is strong headed and needs confident owner for training.
Appearance
The Brazilian doggo is a medium-sized dog with strong and muscular body structure. The head of the dog is massive with wide jaw. Its muzzle is deep and blunt. The eyes are small and dark color. The nose is in contrast of the coat color. Dark color coat dogs have light colored nose and vice versa. The ears of the dog are set at medium height of the head. It is small and floppy shaped. The legs of the dog are straight and well developed. Tail is of medium length and can be docked.
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Size and Weight
The average height of the male breed is 21-24 inches and it weighs around 64-95 lbs. The average height of the female breed is 20-23 inches and it weighs around 51-86 lbs.
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Coat and Color
The dog coat comes in medium or short length. Its coat is dense and glossy. The dog comes in many colors and patterns on its body. Common colors are white, tan, red, brown, black, and combination of these colors. This dog has white patches on its eyes, tail, chest, face and feet.
Temperament
- Personality - The dog has a dual personality. It is immensely lovely and affectionate to its loved ones and may go on attacking spree on strangers in dreadful situation. The dog is loyal and courageous and makes effective guard dog. An early socialized dog is tolerable of other animals but however small animals shouldn’t be trusted around it. They adore kids but they are too energetic for toddlers. It is important to teach your kids to treat dog with respect.
- Behavior - The dog is calm and reserved unless it is provoked. Like bull terrier, this dog has also high tolerance of pain. The dog is on perpetual guard dog duty and makes vigilant watchdog. It will not allow strangers to come near to family unless owner welcomes them. It is extremely loyal to its family and will never ever trust strangers. It has an athletic buildup body and it excels in dog’s sports related to agility and strength. The dog can also be trained to work as herding dog. It is a tireless machine and can work nonstop.
- Activities Requirements - This breed needs average 60 minutes of work out to thrive happily inside home. If you do not commit to its daily exercise needs, it will go destructive and starts chewing furniture or barking excessively. The dog gets bored easily so make sure to provide it with many interesting toys. You can also play fetch game with this dog.
- Training - Master needs to be strong and confident. They are moderately easy to train because they are quick learners and believe in pleasing their owner. Positive reinforcement techniques will keep the dogs’ interest in training sessions intact. Moreover it will boost the dog to strive towards excellence. Early socialization is necessary for every dog.
Feeding
The amount of food depends upon its size and level of activity. Being a carnivorous animal, this dog should be fed meat, bacon, lamb and beef. High quality grains like brown rice should be fed to it. Its diet should contain fat and protein. Raw egg, coffee, chocolate should never be fed to this dog.
Lifespan
They live around 12 to 13 years of age.
Also read:
- Wetterhoun – Water Dog
- Blue Lacy Dog - Extremely Hardworking Breed
- Boxer Dog - The Strong-Minded Working Dog
Health Issues
This dog is not a hypoallergenic breed. Health concerns of this dog are
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Luxation Patella
- Obesity
- Digestion problem
- Bloat
- Cancer
Grooming
The dog sheds averagely. Regular grooming will keep the dead hairs in control. It will also keep its coat debris and mats free. The grooming process is similar to other dog’s breed including- bathing once a month, cleaning its ears, brushing its teeth and clipping its nails.
Habitat
They need space to open themselves and wander freely. Confining them to a small space is inhuman. They can tolerate every kind of climate.
Pet Names
- Daisy
- Jack
- Ginger
- Ninja
- Rusty
Things To Consider Before Buying
Pros
- The dog makes reliable guard dog. It is protective of its family and will make sure to keep unauthorized people at bay
- The dog is moderately easy to train
- The dog is suitable for active members.
Cons
- It is not hypoallergenic
- It needs space to thrive
- The dog is aggressive towards other animals if not socialized properly.
