The Argentine Dogo is the result of a breeding program that was begun in 1925. Antonio Nores Martinez was not quite 18 years of age when he told his younger brother (by one year), Agustin, of his desire to create a new breed of hunting dog. A breed of dog that started with the Fighting Dog of Cordoba, an extraordinarily courageous breed of dog that was at that time useless for pack hunting due to its hostility towards other dogs, people, and animals. Due to the interference of man the Fighting Dog of Cordoba was destined for extinction. Antonio Nores Martinez knew he wanted to use the Fighting Dog of Cordoba's courage as a beginning foundation. He wanted to eliminate the fighting urge and replace it with a hunting instinct that was equally strong. The two brothers spent all of their pocket money buying food for their dogs. They were able to enlist the help of their family and friends who backed the brother's endeavor with a confidence that was remarkable. Antonio became a surgeon, and his medical knowledge helped to advance, improve and refine the breed that had become his life's passion.
There were ten breeds of dog that were used to produce the Argentine Dogo. The foundation was the Fighting Dog of Cordoba, ten females were used to begin with. The Pointer was used to develop and sharpen the sense of smell that is required for the hunt. The Boxer added energy and gentleness to the line. The Great Dane contributed its size and height. The Bull Terrier added to the fearlessness of the progeny. The Bulldog contributed its chest build to the physiology of the new breed, and boldness of spirit and tenacity to its personality. The Irish Wolfhound was used not only for size, but for its hunting instinct as well. The powerful jaws of the Dogue de Bordeaux, as well as more strength and courage,were desired and this breed was incorporated into the breeding program. The Great Pyrenees contributed its white coat, which is weather resistant, and bulk, and the Spanish Mastiff was used to contribute even more power to an already powerful animal.
In 1956, Antonio Nores Martinez died at the hands of a robber while he was out on a hunt. He never got to see the fruitition of his life's work. The younger brother, Agustin, worked to salvage his older brother's dream of a new breed of dog. And he succeeded.