Dogo Argentino vs American Bulldog: 5 Key Differences

There are a number of fantastic dog breeds out there, but how can you compare the Dogo Argentino vs American bulldog? What ways do these two breeds differ, and in what ways are they similar to one another? If you have always wanted to learn about the American bulldog and the Dogo Argentino, you’re in the right place!

In this article, we will compare and contrast everything you need to know about the Dogo Argentino and the American Bulldog. We will go over their physical differences so that you can learn to tell them apart at first glance. Additionally, we will address their ancestries and behavioral differences in case you are interested in adopting either of these breeds. Let’s get started!

Comparing Dogo Argentino vs American Bulldog

Key Differences Between Dogo Argentino vs American Bulldog

There are a number of differences between the Dogo Argentino and the American bulldog. For example, the American bulldog has a much wider range of sizes compared to the more regimented Dogo Argentino. Additionally, the American bulldog comes in more colors compared to the white Dogo Argentino. Finally, the Dogo Argentino lives a slightly shorter life compared to the average American bulldog.

Let’s take a closer look at all of these differences now.

Dogo Argentino vs American Bulldog: Size

Given how much overlap occurs in both the weight and height of these two dog breeds, you may not be able to tell the size differences between the Dogo Argentino and the American bulldog just by looking at them. Generally speaking, the American bulldog has a much wider range of sizes compared to the Dogo Argentino. 

Looking at the figures in more detail, the American bulldog reaches heights of 20 to 28 inches tall, while the Dogo Argentino only ranges in height from 24 to 27 inches. This means that the American bulldog is either smaller or larger overall, depending on the specific dog. Additionally, the American bulldog weighs anywhere from 60 to 130 pounds, while the Dogo Argentino weighs an average of 85 to 100 pounds, depending on gender.

Dogo Argentino vs American Bulldog: Appearance

Both the American bulldog and the Dogo Argentino have strong, muscular bodies with compact frames. However, there are a number of differences in their appearances besides their body shapes. For example, the American bulldog has much stockier legs compared to the lean Dogo Argentino. While both of these dogs have short coats, the Dogo Argentino only comes in white, while the American bulldog comes in a variety of colors.

Additionally, the ears of the Dogo Argentino are erect, while the American bulldog has pendant shaped or floppy ears. You may also notice that the face of the American bulldog is squished inward, while the Dogo Argentino has a large muzzle with drooping jowls. Overall, the American bulldog is much more wrinkled compared to the Dogo Argentino.

Dogo Argentino vs American Bulldog: Ancestry and Breeding

There are a number of differences between the American bulldog and the Dogo Argentino in terms of their ancestry and breeding. For example, the Dogo Argentino came about during the 1920s in Argentina, while the American bulldog was brought to America from Britain during the 1800s. 

Both of these dogs have had a fascinating breeding history as well. While the Dogo Argentino was originally bred for fighting, the American bulldog was originally bred for hunting. However, both breeds transitioned into positions that suit them better. The American bulldog became an adept guard dog and companion animal, while the Dogo Argentino became a hunting and working dog.

Dogo Argentino vs American Bulldog: Behavior

The American bulldog and the Dogo Argentino have many similar behaviors. For example, the Dogo Argentino and the American bulldog are both extremely brave and loyal to their families, though the American bulldog exhibits more stubbornness during training compared to the Dogo Argentino. While the American bulldog may seem more friendly compared to the Dogo Argentino, both of these breeds need a firm hand and some boundaries to perform well when meeting strangers.

Dogo Argentino vs American Bulldog: Lifespan

A final difference between the Dogo Argentino and the American bulldog is their lifespans. Depending on size and health, the American bulldog lives a slightly longer lifespan compared to the average Dogo Argentino. Looking closer at the figures, the Dogo Argentino lives an average of 11-13 years, while the American bulldog lives 12-15 years, though this always depends on the health and upbringing of the individual dog.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Gerdzhikov