Your pet’s first grooming session can be a huge affair. To some, it may be like experiencing their child’s first haircut. Your puppy’s first session can have a long-lasting impact – positive or negative. The Dogo Argentino is a large, courageous, and athletic breed. Despite its large size and regular shedding habits, it is a low-maintenance dog. A Dogo Argentino puppy usually requires its first haircut at 10-12 weeks. At the latest, its first session should be done by 16 weeks.
Grooming a Dogo Argentino puppy may be difficult because of its huge size. However, it has a short coat that makes it easier. What else should you know about raising a Dogo Argentino puppy?
What should I keep in mind about Dogo Argentino?
The Dogo Argentino is a breed of dog that is native to Argentina. It is athletic and energetic. While they are friendly and loyal toward their family, they may be wary of strangers. They also have a high prey drive. Hence, they may chase after other household pets. In these ways, they may not be the best option for first-time dog-owners.
In the case of a Dogo Argentino, it may be best to begin training from the moment you bring the puppy home. It may initially be around 20 pounds, but it will quickly grow into its full size of 80-100 pounds. Hence, you must start training while it is still manageable.
Caring for a Dogo Argentino puppy
Usually, the Dogo Argentino needs at least 60 minutes of daily exercise. Try to give the dog the space to run freely for the entire period. A game of fetch in a controlled but free environment can help with this. Allowing the dog to exercise without restrictions will help it grow not only in the physical aspect but also mentally.
While training the dog, you must make sure that only positive training methods are used. Harsh correction methods can affect the learning process of the dog. To prevent your dog from growing into an ill-mannered adult, you must train it to socialize from a young age. Exposing your dog to other dogs and situations can build its confidence and comfort. This will also help the Dogo to grow into a friendly dog. It may help to enroll the dog in an obedience class when it is old enough.
When it comes to grooming, it helps that the Dogo is a low-maintenance breed. It has a smooth and short coat, and it sheds a moderate amount. Usually, you just have to brush weekly with a soft bristle brush to remove loose hair. The short coat can cause sunburns, so you can discuss the various aspects of sun protection with your vet.
Check your dog’s ears weekly. Ensure that there is no debris, redness, dirt, etc. Also, check its nails weekly to see if they need to be trimmed. Your vet can take care of these aspects. Besides this, the Dogo only needs the occasional bath when it is dirty. It may also need a professional groom once in three months.
How can I initiate a brushing session for my Dogo Argentino?
Usually, a proper haircut happens only when the dog is being groomed. In the case of a Dogo Argentino puppy, you do not have to worry about regular haircuts. As previously mentioned, the dog has a short coat, which makes the grooming process easier. However, it may take the pup some time to get used to the fact that it will be brushed every week. If done right, you can convert this weekly time into a bonding session with your dog.
Since this breed of dog has sharp jaws, you may want to use a muzzle. It can help to tire out your dog a bit. This does not mean that you have to exhaust your pup; just take it out on a walk or something similar. You must also give your dog sufficient time to get used to the tools and methods used for brushing. Using the same room at the same time, maybe even some music, can help establish a routine.
This is a great way to not only have some quality time with your dog but also to ensure that it is comfortable with you. Make sure that you brush the dog weekly to remove any unwanted substances like dirt and parasites from its coat.
Is my Dogo Argentino puppy shedding too much hair?
The Dogo Argentino may lose a significant amount of hair in early spring and autumn. Since this is a natural phenomenon, you do not have to be worried. But if you notice excessive shedding at other times, it may be due to a medical condition.
You must brush your dog regularly. Not only does this help maintain the beauty of the dog’s coat, but it also brushes away loose and falling hair. Additionally, the same type of brush might not be right for all types of Dogo Argentino puppies. Hence you can try changing the brush.
You can also try changing the diet of the puppy to include more vitamins or fatty acids. Take the help of the vet to reach the best conclusion. If none of this helps, it may be best to consult the vet.
Keeping your Dogo Argentino happy
Keeping your dog clean and healthy plays a major role in maintaining their happiness. Since the Dogo Argentino can be aggressive at times, early socializing can also help create a happier environment in the future.
Although the Dogo Argentino has a mixed reputation, a well-trained dog is a friendly one. This training can start anywhere, even from its first haircut. The most important factor is to teach your dog to remain calm. This may take some time for a pup to get used to, but it can go a long way for an adult dog. If the dog has been trained properly, a grooming session need not go beyond 20 minutes.
Keep these tips in mind and ensure the happiness and well-being of your Dogo Argentino!
MORE ON XOMYPETS: