Latin America boasts a diverse array of beautiful, interesting, and unique dog breeds. The most famous of them is the Chihuahua, the world’s smallest dog.
However, sadly, most of the remarkable Latin American strains are unknown to the vast majority of the public. They are truly different, going beyond the typical European or Asian types. Each of these breeds has a story to tell; they showcase diverse temperaments and histories of their lands of origin.
Many of them were originally hunting dogs, but have been domesticated and made suitable for families in the present day. As you read about them, you will come to discover a whole new world that you never knew existed. So let’s not waste any more time, and get reading:
1. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is famous for being the world’s smallest dog. But did you know that it is very closely related to the ancient Techichi breed?
The Aztecs developed it in ancient Mexico. Don’t be fooled by their small stature and miniature appearance. Yes, it is small enough to fit in your handbag. But its personality is more than just a handful.
It is very active, smart, fearless, and sometimes stubborn. In other words, they have a ‘big dog’ personality. Chihuahuas are also quite susceptible to cold weather conditions.
2. Chamuco
I bet you have not heard of the Chamuco, as it is a relatively unknown breed. It is much more widely known as the Mexican pit bull.
Now, there’s a bit of a controversial side to this one. They were bred to be a powerful dog with high stamina that would excel in fighting rings (mostly illegal).
According to popular perception, the Chamuco was developed in the 1970s. It was created by mixing the American pit bull terrier with the now-extinct Mexican bulldog. They are, however, incredibly loyal and protective of their family; also, they’re good with kids.
3. Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli (bit of a tongue-twister there!) is also known as the Mexican hairless dog. It’s an ancient breed that goes back to the Aztec civilization. Apparently, this breed was revered and considered sacred by the tribes, and today they’re classed as the country’s national dog.
They are a largely hairless breed, with just a few tufts of hair on their head. It comes in three sizes: miniature, toy, and standard. They have a high prey drive and are very good watchdogs.
4. Dogo Argentino
As you can guess, this dog originates from Argentina, where it was developed to hunt down big game. It’s a relatively new breed and has only been around since the 1920s.
However, despite being bred for stamina and prey instincts, they make great family pets when they are matched appropriately with the right family.
They are very loyal, very protective, and kind towards children. They are energetic and require plenty of exercise.
5. Brazilian Mastiff
The Brazilian mastiff is a big dog. It is known for its aggression and use as livestock guardians. In the past, it was mainly used for tracking and hunting.
They are natural protectors, but are still considered dangerous. It also has a dark past, it was used to track down fugitive slaves in the 18th century and return them unharmed to their owners. If you’re a first-time dog owner, then we advise you not to go for this dog.
6. Brazilian Terrier
As you can see, this small terrier is from Brazil. Research says that it was bred from a mix of Jack Russells, Parson Russells, fox terriers, and Chihuahuas. Whew, that’s quite a mix.
They are very smart and energetic hunters, which is why you need to keep them away from smaller animals. If you’re getting one of these doggos, make sure you have a big yard. They love to dig around and run freely!
7. Chilean Terrier
This native breed from Chile dates back to the 1800s. Nowadays, it is rarely found outside its home country, despite being part foreign in terms of origin.
It was created by crossing British fox terriers with indigenous Chilean dogs. It is a very well-balanced and elegant canine, ideal for hunting fox and killing vermin.
They are active, intelligent dogs that can make good companions. However, do not trust it around smaller pets. That is a serious warning, and you need to heed it!
8. Peruvian Inca Orchid
This dog is named after an orchid. Hilarious, right? Not so much. It is a cute hairless dog with ancient origins. The Peruvian Inca orchid or Inca hairless dog is an ancient hairless breed originating in Peru.
Yes, it is as old as the Inca Empire, as far back as 300 BCE. The breed is affectionate towards its family but very distrustful of strangers. Like the Brazilian mastiff, this dog is also not suitable for first-time owners.
9. Mucuchies
The ‘mucuchies’ is better known as the Venezuelan sheepdog. It is a large livestock guardian that is descended from Spanish breeds such as the Spanish mastiff and Great Pyrenees. It had been bred for two centuries since the 16th century.
This is the national dog of Venezuela, and is mainly used for herding in the Andean mountains. Sadly, these energetic and efficient dogs are now rare and facing the threat of extinction.
10. Cimarron Uruguayo
Cimarrón Uruguayo belongs to the mastiff family. A native of Uruguay, it descended from the mastiffs that were brought to the country from faraway Europe. They were then bred with indigenous, feral dogs and became hunters of livestock.
After some time, farmers caught the dogs and domesticated them. Even today, they are used as guard dogs by farmers.
They still retain their hunting instincts, but can fit into a family with enough training.
11. Patagonian Sheepdog
The Patagonian Sheepdog is a very docile breed that was developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
As the name suggests, they were used for herding sheep in the southern part of Chilean Patagonia. It is also called the Magellan sheepdog or barbucho.
Some think that it likely derived from European working dogs, such as the Old Welsh gray sheepdog or collies. Owing to its soft and friendly nature, it is a perfect fit for any family.
12. Campeiro
The campeiro bulldog’s name essentially means “field dog”. It is popularly believed to be a descendant of the old English bulldog and the Serrano bulldog.
The campeiro bulldog was used by butchers in the past. It used to subdue cattle and swine at slaughterhouses when they got out of control.
During the 1970s, it nearly went extinct owing to sanitation regulations that prohibited their use in slaughterhouses.
13. Brazilian Dogo
Brazilian Dogo is a mastiff-type working dog breed. As you can understand, it originated in Brazil (in the 19th century). It is a mixture between a bull terrier and a boxer.
Going by physique, it is medium-sized, strong, agile, and muscular.
They are absolutely massive without being stocky, which is a plus point. Despite its size, it has a balanced temper and is a very good family dog.
Conclusion
This list was truly fascinating to make. Reading it uncovers so much knowledge–about the various kinds of dogs that many people around the world are unaware of.
Latin American dogs are beautiful and mind-blowing– much like the region itself. How did you like reading this? Do drop us a line in the comments.
