By Macy Gen Veterinary AssistantMacy Gen Last updated: 18th October 2022

Brazilian Dogo

By

Macy Gen Veterinary Assistant Macy Gen
Last updated: 18th October 2022

The Brazilian Dogo or Brazilian Dogge is a working breed of the Molosser kind that originated in Brazil. This medium-sized breed may be massive and muscular but possesses an athletic built.  Developed in the latter part of the 20th century, the Brazilian Dogo did not get recognition by any of the major kennel clubs. Mainly used for guarding purpose, this breed, because of its protective nature is considered to be a great guardian and also put to use for hunting and herding in its place of origin.

Brazilian Dogo Pictures

Quick Information

Other namesDogue Brasileiro, Brazilian Dogge
NicknamesBull Boxer
CoatMedium or short, dense, shiny and hard
ColorOf any combination of solid, tricolor, piebald
TypeCrossbreed
GroupWorking dogs, Molosser
SizeMedium
Lifespan/ Life ExpectancyAbout 13 years
HeightMale: 21-24 inches
Female: 20 -23 inches
WeightMale: 64-95 lbs
Female: 51-86 lbs
Behavioral Characteristics Affectionate, energetic, loyal protective
Good with childrenYes, supervision needed
HypoallergenicNo
Competitive Registration Qualification/ InformationUnrecognized by any major kennel clubs; only CBKC
CountryBrazil


History

Pedro Pessoa Ribeiro Dantas, a breeder of the Bull Terrier, played a significant role in the development of this breed. Pedro had crossed one of his male Bull Terriers with a female Boxer of his neighbor as the latter insisted him to do so. Pedro, was, however, fond of a female puppy that was a result of the mating and kept it for himself. This puppy with her brindled markings acquired the name Tigresa and went on to have an affectionate, obedient and pleasant disposition. She did not take on the aggression from her Bull Terrier genes but was rather tolerant of Pedro’s other Bull Terriers. In fact, when they tried to provoke her, she did not retaliate aggressively but rather protected herself by using her agility and sense of balance.  These distinct qualities compelled Pedro to make inquiries from other people who had also bought puppies from that particular litter. Everyone unanimously spoke of the dog’s excellent guarding abilities alongside its gentle, affectionate nature towards the members of its kith and kin.

The Boxer and Bull Terrier breed were mated for the second time, though the dogs used were different than the ones taken to make the first litter. This time too the results were successful, resulting in the establishment of a distinct breed which was initially named as Bull Boxer. However, this   Bull Boxer was not similar to the ones developed by crossing the Boxer with several breeds of Bulls like the American Bulldog, English Bulldog, American Pitbull Terrier, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. The puppies which evolved as a result of such crossbreeding were carefully monitored to keep a track on their general attributes and health. In fact majority of them possessed the following traits:

  • Lifespan of 13 years
  • Higher tolerance to pain like the Bull Terrier
  • Balanced and powerful in terms of their physical traits
  • Great guardian and protector
  • Close bonding with its family

In the following generations no more Bulls or Boxers were introduced and the breeding as solely done using the Bull Boxers that existed already. The Brazilian Bull Boxer Club was established in the year 1986, with Pedro Pessoa Ribeiro Dantas, being its president. Officially recognized by the
Confederação Brasileira de Cinofilia (CBKC) in the year 1999, the breed standard of the present day Brazilian Dogo got published in 2007. Though it did not acquire recognition by any major kennel clubs, its popularity in Brazil has been increasing.

Temperament and Personality

The Brazilian Dogo possesses a versatile character, as on the one hand, it appears to be a fierce protector for its family shielding them against any impending danger, while at the same it is highly loyal and affectionate towards its near and dear ones. It is hugely wary towards strangers and can go on an attacking spree if provoked or instigated to do so. It may get along well with kids of the family, though parental supervision is needed while they interact with the little ones to prevent unpleasant occurrences.

Care

Exercise

These active dogs need to be exercised on a regular basis to channelize their energy positively. They may do better in homes with bigger space than small apartments, owing to their high energy and activity levels.

Grooming

Brush its dense, hard coat on a weekly basis to keep it bright and shiny. Other grooming needs include cleaning its eyes and ears on a regular basis, brushing its teeth and trimming its nails to keep any infections at bay.

Health Problems

Though this hardy and enduring breed is not known to suffer from any major health problem, it could inherit some of the ailments of the Bull Terrier (kidney failure, patellar luxation, deafness, heart conditions) as well as the Boxer (hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, gastrointestinal problems, heart ailments).

Training

Since they are loyal and devoted to their masters, training them would not be much difficult.

Socialization: Because of their indifference towards strangers, socializing the Brazilian Dogo puppies is of utmost importance. Acquaint them with people with varying physical features and complexion as well as get them used to different situations, so that they may be eventually able to distinguish the pleasant from the unpleasant.

Obedience: As they are great guardians and protector, you should give them command training since their puppy days, so that they may attack at your instruction and stop when you ask them to.

Feeding

Give your Brazilian Dogo good quality dry dog food to keep it healthy and energized. You may also add homemade food or a raw diet, also, its dog food, though consult your vet before doing it.

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