Guatemalan Bull Terrier

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Guatemalan Bull Terrier is also known as Dogo Guatemalteco. It originated in Guatemala in 1930s and is still an unknown and rather rare breed outside its country of origin. Though Dogo Argentino or/and Pitbull Terrier may appear as this dog's progenitors due to its stark resemblance to both breeds, the dogs are actually the result of cross combination between Dalmatians, Dogue de Bordeaux, Boxer, Bull Terriers and fighting dogs of Cordova. With this ancestry, the dog has a courageous, protective nature and is an excellent protector of its family and possessions. Its protective and guarding instincts are one of the reasons for its popularity among crime-hit Guatemala people who keep this dog an a first line of defense against intruders.

This dog comes with a large and square head and square muzzle. Ears can be left naturally pendant style or cropped to give a Doberman or Boxer look to this dog. This dog has a smooth and dense, harsh to touch coat that comes in mostly white colouring with or without black patches on eyes and on head. It stands between 22-24 inches and weighs between 55-79 lbs.

This breed is NOT recognized by AKC.

Color

This breed comes in white colour. The dog may have a black eyes patch and small black spots on the head.

Coat

The coat is shiny, smooth and dense.

Personality

Bred for guarding and protecting purposes, the dog's ancestor also makes it a celebrated fighting dog. It is an excellent protection guard that is a natural deterrent to intruders with its large size and formidable appearance. On the other hand, the dog has a very calm and controlled temperament which makes it an excellent family pet. It is obedient and docile with its master and family while being playful and loving to children it has been grown up with. This dog is very pack oriented and needs to look up to its master. It is not recommended for first time owners as the lack of proper leadership skills from the master will result in the dog becoming willful and stubborn. Training and socialization is very important from early puppy hood days. This dog does not require lots of exercise and would be content with daily walks. It is an excellent family pet and guardian dog with proper socialization and training.

Care

Short coat of this breed is low maintenance. Weekly brushing will be sufficient to keep the coat clean. Bathe only when needed. Ears and teeth should be checked and cleaned regularly.

Training

Training can be easy for this dog with a proper and experienced handler as this dog looks up to its owner for guidance. The trainer must display leadership qualities and make the dog follow instructions through gentle, yet firm and consistent training routines.

Activity

The Guatemalan Bull Terrier is not a very demanding breed when it comes to exercise though the dog would benefit from daily walks and play time in a fenced yard.