Cuba is home to the remarkable and unusual breed of dog known as the Dogo Cubano, or Cuban Dogo. This breed draws attention everywhere it goes thanks to its striking appearance and powerful, muscular build. The Cuban Dogo is an impressive companion that combines strength and agility, coming from a mix of various breeds.
The Cuban Dogo is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a devoted and vigilant companion because of its reputation for loyalty and protectiveness. These dogs have a gentle side that makes them lovable to both families and individuals; they are not just pretty dogs. They can be quite affectionate and have strong bonds with their owners despite their intimidating size.
This article will examine the traits, background, and maintenance needs of the Cuban Dogo. You’ll discover insightful information to help you comprehend what makes the Cuban Dogo a genuinely unique companion, whether you’re thinking about bringing one into your home or you’re just interested in learning more about this intriguing breed.
General characteristics
Cuban Mastiffs, also known as Cuban Dogos, are fighting and service dogs. They are bred using a number of Dogo, Bulldog, and Pit Bull varieties as foundations. They served as boundary guards for homes and dog fights. This dog is powerful, bold, energetic, and aggressive. These Dogos were once the pride and property of Latin America. The breed is now extremely rare and is regarded as extinct by the government.
Parameters | Characteristics |
---|---|
name of the breed | Cuban Dog (English. Cuban Dog) |
country | Cuba |
FCI classification | extinct breed |
breed group | molossoids |
height | 60 cm |
Pros
Although the benefits of these dogs are hard to determine, from the accounts of their peers, they were similar to this:
- excellent working qualities;
- strength, endurance;
- loyalty;
- unpretentiousness;
- good health.
Cons
The biggest problem with these dogs is that they were fighting and very aggressive. Additionally, there are these drawbacks:
- stubbornness;
- difficulty of training;
- tendency to dominate;
- independence and self-sufficiency.
History of the origin of the Cuban Dogo breed
The 16th century saw the emergence of Cuban mastiffs. Dogs belonging to various breeds were introduced to the island of Cuba alongside the Spanish colonists. Spanish mastiffs were crossed with Old English bulldogs to produce big, tough, powerful dogs. At that time, breeding took place in a monastery in Santiago de Cuba.
The resultant canines assisted the Spanish in enslaving the local populace and converting the aboriginal people to Catholicism. As slave guards and area defenders, they gained favor with farmers. They took part in battles, corralled bulls, and held dog fights.
These dogs started to be crossed with hounds and setters to enhance their sense of smell. They developed increased sensitivity and vigilance as a result. To more effectively look for escaped slaves, certain attributes were necessary.
Due to their exceptional bloodhound skills, strength, bravery, and ferocity, this breed of dogs was exported to the USA, France, and Spain in the 18th and 19th centuries. They were employed in the selection process to enhance the fighting prowess and heightened aggression in breeds like Cordoba, pit bulls, and Argentine dogs.
How were they used
In particular, Cuban mastiffs gained popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries. They acted as companions for warriors, guarded homes, and kept people and animals safe from predators. They were employed in conflicts with Indians in the USA. They later gained notoriety for bullfighting.
However, the primary duties of the breed representatives were to protect slaves and find and bring back fugitives. Given that the majority of people living on the island were slaves up until the end of the 19th century, the dogs were well-liked. Numerous slaves escaped, formed groups, and attacked Spanish settlements. Mastiffs, who were specifically trained to hunt the natives, were successful in their battles against them.
Reasons for the extinction of the breed
Because their working abilities were no longer in demand, these dogs vanished. After slavery was outlawed in Cuba in 1886, the need for ferocious guards was eliminated. There were no big animals or predators on the island, and dog fights were outlawed as well. For a while, farms were guarded by Cuban mastiffs, but their upkeep was costly and they exhibited excessive aggression.
These dogs were virtually extinct at the turn of the 20th century. There have been reports that dog fights with their participation have continued in isolated areas despite the bans. Some were sent to the United States, but they were no longer specially bred in Cuba or the United States. As a result, the breed no longer has any purebred representatives; instead, those that are passed off as such are hybrids.
Appearance
The appearance of Cuban dogs is comparable to that of American Pit Bull Terriers and Bulldogs. Although the dogs currently recognized as belonging to this breed resembled typical mastiffs, they are very different from the originals. You can discover that the following exterior characteristics were once present in them:
- large size, height at the withers about 60 cm, weight over 50 kg;
- strong, muscular build;
- large, massive head with a rounded skull;
- wide muzzle, with a short, almost square muzzle and folds of skin;
- powerful jaws, prominent cheekbones, thick, drooping lips;
- small ears, triangular, semi-erect or cropped;
- eyes are medium-sized, round, dark;
- the neck is short and thick;
- the chest is wide and barrel-shaped;
- the back is wide and level, the loin is slightly raised;
- the tail is thick, of medium length;
- the limbs are straight, muscular, strong;
- the coat is thick, very short, hard and tight-fitting;
- color white, white with spots, red-brown or wolf, characterized by the presence of a dark mask and darkening on the paws.
The images depict the appearance of these dogs:
The robust and devoted Cuban Dogo breed is well-known for its remarkable strength and protective demeanor. This breed, which was initially developed as a hunting and guard dog, is a dependable companion and devoted protector because it combines strength and a gentle disposition. The Cuban Dogo is a special and treasured addition to any family because of its striking appearance and loyal nature.
Character of Cuban Dogs
They were courageous, powerful dogs with outstanding working abilities. Their primary ancestry was protection and defense. They are strong, fearless, and able to fend off animals that prey on them. With the right training, the Mastiff was obedient, submissive, and executive.
This dog is independent, obstinate, and inclined toward dominance and self-reliance. tries to assert its leadership constantly and frequently disobeys orders. Only a patient and strong-willed owner will be able to control it. However, if this isn’t done, the dog will become unmanageable and a threat to other people.
When speaking with a Cuban mastiff, you must be persistent and maintain your composure. He must exhibit his authority, resistance, and strong will. The puppy must be socialized from a young age and receive ongoing care. Regularity and interest are essential for a pet to participate in training; otherwise, it won’t be done.
The following video will teach you more about the breed:
Watch video: Kubinsky canine
Feature | Description |
Origin | Cuba |
Size | Medium to large |
Coat | Short, smooth |
Color | White, brindle, or fawn |
Temperament | Loyal, protective, intelligent |
Exercise Needs | Moderate |
Grooming | Low |
Health Issues | Generally healthy, some breeds may have hip dysplasia |
A remarkable breed with a special combination of strength, agility, and loyalty is the Cuban Dogo. Its physical attributes and background make it an excellent companion for individuals who value an energetic and powerful dog. The Cuban Dogo, with its reputation for being protective, is a capable defender and a devoted family member.
This breed does best in an environment that offers lots of exercise and mental stimulation, but it also needs to be properly trained and socialized. This guarantees that the strong instincts of the Cuban Dogo are channeled positively, resulting in a well-rounded companion.
All things considered, the Cuban Dogo is a breed that demands commitment and maintenance but offers its owners steadfast loyalty and a watchful presence in return. A happy and harmonious relationship with a Cuban Dogo will result from your understanding and meeting their needs, regardless of your experience level as a pet parent.