Smithfield vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison

The Smithfield is also known as the Smithfield, Smithy or Tasmanian Smithfield and is a herding dog found in Australia but originating in the UK. There is also the possibility that there was an Australian dog bred at a place known as Smithfield, near Texas which is just inside the Queensland border.

It is thought by some that the Smithfield is extinct. The dog was first introduced to the Land Down Under in colonial times.

The Smithfield isn’t recognised by the Canine Councils, but in 1862 the first Dog Show was held in Australia.

Known as the Guatemalteco Bull Terrier or Guatemalan Molosser, the Dogo Guatemalteco is also known as the Bull Terrier Guatemalteco, Guatemalan Bull Terrier, and Guatemalan Molosser.

This big Molosser-type dog originates in Guatemala. In the 20th century, it was known as the Bullterrier Guatemalteco, but at the end of the century, it was changed to Dogo Guatemalteco.

Today, while the dog is kept as a companion dog, most are working guard dogs. The Dogo Guatemalteco isn’t recognized by any major international kennel clubs. However, the Kennel Club of Guatemala has given full recognition to this dog and it was in 1981 that the Guatemalan government named the dog as their national dog breed.

The Smithfield is a medium to large sized dog, strong and square-bodied with a wedge shaped head. Many people liken his looks to a Bearded Collie.

He has a rough, medium length coat. The coat has different colors such as white, black, grey or reddish brown. The coat is shaggy and in fact they are often clipped to give them a groomed look and to prevent grass and burrs clinging to the coat.

The tail of the dog can either be a natural bobtail or it could have a longer tail. When the tail is long it is carried low with an upward turn at the tip. The ears are mostly floppy and held close to the head.

He stands at between 46 to 53cm in height and weighs between 16 and 25kg. A bright, alert expression is a distinctive feature of the Smithfield.

Temperament:

The Smithfield is an active, robust dog and they have well balanced, stable personalities. They are often described as being laid-back.

You won’t find any signs of shyness or aggression with these dogs and they are known to be gentle and calm. They are self confident and well adjusted and also hard working.

They are devoted and loving to their human family and are also intelligent. When they’ve been trained and socialized they make splendid family pets, wonderful with children, just loving to run and play. These are dogs you can rely on to be consistent in nature.

The Guatemalteco is a medium to large dog standing at 54 – 60cm and weighing between 40-45kg. He has a short, smooth coat and is essentially white with some black markings on the head.

This breed was created from a crossing between a bull terrier, boxer and dalmatian. Some of the dogs are thickly built, while others are more leaner and athletic looking.

The ears of the dog vary quite a bit because while sometimes the ears fold down closely to the head, others are semi-pricked. There are some dog owners who have their dogs ears cropped into fully erect triangular shapes. The eye are small and usually dark brown.

Temperament:

The Dogo Guatemalteco is a fearless, evenly tempered dog. He was bred as a guard dog and he wants to protect his human family, forming a deep bond with them. It makes them difficult to re-home because of this.

It is imperative to have this dog trained and socialized because it might believe its the leader of the pack in your home. He is quite capable of getting along well with children and pets in the home. Because of his dominant nature, he isn’t suited as a pet for the first-time dog owner. He also doesn’t warm easily to strangers.

Those who have owned a Smithfield love them and say that once you’ve owned one, you’ll want another.

These easy going dogs have all the characteristics necessary to ensure a good pet, playmate and companion. They are devoted to their human family, and given the chance will become a very special 4-legged member of any family who appreciates the friendship a such a dog offers.

Your Dogo Guatemalteco is an intelligent dog breed, and because he is strong-willed and stubborn he might give you a hard time during training. It is possible though and it is important as the training will turn him into an obedient, relaxed dog, able to get on with all his family members, including pets.

He is an energetic dog and will require walks and other forms of exercise each day.

This is certainly not the kind of dog that you buy to protect your property and provide little else for him except food and water. Frustration on the dog’s part can lead to destructive behavior and aggression.

Treat him well and he can make an excellent family companion.

These dogs enjoy exceptional good health and can reach between 10 and 14 years of age.

You have to be careful with your pet however, because there are quite a few common dog illnesses that can plague your pet, and we look at a few -

Canine Distemper:

This is caused by a contagious virus. Infected dogs develop symptoms such as runny eyes, fever, coughing, vomiting and even seizures. Unfortunately this disease is often fatal. There is luckily a vaccine against it and it is highly recommended for your pet.

Canine parvovirus:

Also a very contagious disease which attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing fever, vomiting and diarrhea. It is often spread by contaminated stools and feeding utensils of dogs. Many dogs die from parvo but there is also a vaccine against it.

Heatstroke:

This is terrible for your pet and is a huge risk for dogs during Summer. Never leave your pet in a car unattended, especially on a hot day. Remember that stub-nosed dogs such as Boxers, Pugs, Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are more prone to respiratory problems and heat can be deadly for them.

This dog can be susceptible to skin allergies. The skin is sensitive and prone to rashes.

Another health concern with this dog because of his white coat, is congenital deafness. The deafness could be in one- or both ears.

The dog could also experience lameness, of which the most common problem is hip dysplasia. Because skeletal problems occur in this breed, it is advisable for owners to have their pet tested by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.

Exercise:

The Smithfield has plenty of energy and loves nothing more than lots of games with the children. He will also look forward to a walk every day as well as other activities.

Grooming:

When it comes to grooming, you can save money by grooming your dog at home. Whether you have your pet’s hair cut or you leave it as is, get into the habit of brushing the fur at least twice a week. You can speak to your vet or groomer and get advice on what comb of brush to use on your Smithfield.

It you want to cut your pet’s hair, it is important to use the right equipment so you don't accidentally injure him. Certainly if you feel unsure about shaving your dog at home, leave this grooming aspect to the experts.

Have your pet’s nails trimmed.

Check your pet’s eyes. They must be clear and bright. Check inside his mouth for bad teeth. Check inside his ears to make sure they aren’t red with infection.

Diet:

Your Smithfield is relying on you to provide him with good food. For convenience, it is always a good idea to have a packet of the best dry kibble there is. Check out the label and make sure to buy one that has a good balance of vitamins and minerals.

Give him some tasty homemade food too. Remember to keep it plain and simple. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are nutritious and tasty. This food can all be chopped up and small portions added to the dry kibble twice a week as a treat.

You’ll never have to worry about digestion problems with your dog. A little bit of raw meat can also go a long way to ensuring his skin stays healthy and free of skin infections. Ensure that he has a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

The coat of the dog is short and harsh and it sheds throughout the year. While he is still looked upon as a low maintenance dog, regular brushing will be required twice a week.

Because he is a dog breed that is susceptible to skin allergies, bathing isn't necessary as it removes the dog’s natural oils.

Other areas of grooming for this dog are brushing his teeth twice a week, trimming his nails and checking his ears.

Diet:

Always choose a high quality dog food for your Dogo Guatemalteco and look at the feeding recommendations on the packaging.

When you feed your pet kibble, you can also mix in some cooked brown rice, vegetable and chicken for variety and contentment.

Raw meat is also advised from time to time. Don’t just go on and on through the years feeding your dog the same amount of food, as there are factors to take into account when deciding on food quantity. The age of your dog, it’s stage of life and its activity levels will mean regulating your pet’s food to match his needs.