DOGO Argentino's are one of the most instantly recognisable dog breeds in the world.

Here, we look at the origins of the breed and if owning one is legal in the UK.

What is a Dogo Argentino?

It was bred in the early twentieth century in Córdoba in central Argentina primarily for dog-fighting.

It was also used for hunting large animals such as Puma's.

Dogos Argentino's are also trained for search and rescue, police assistance, service dogs, guidance for the blind, competitive obedience and military work.

Are Dogo Argentino dogs illegal in the UK?

Dogo Argentino dogs are one of four breeds of dog that are currently illegal in the UK.

The others are the Pitbull terrier, the Japanese Tosa and the Fila Brasileiro.

In 1991, the UK government brought in legislation prohibiting certain dog breeds. This was in response to a number of incidents involving sometimes unprovoked attacks by certain breeds of dog, on humans.

This is now known as the Dangerous Dogs Act.

If you can prove a dog's safe, despite it being a banned breed, then you can get a certificate of exemption.

This means you can keep it, but you have to get special insurance.

You've also got to be over 16, and keep the dog muzzled in public.

The act has been criticised by groups such as the RSPCA, who suggested it was unfair to judge a dog based on their breed rather than their behaviour.

Are Dogo Argentino cross breeds illegal in the UK?

Crossbreeds may also be subject to the law, depending on their size and characteristics.

Whether a dog is considered illegal or not can depend on what it looks like, not just its breed.

This means that if a dog shares physical characteristics with one of the four banned breeds, it could be considered illegal.

This assessment of the physical characteristics is made by a Dog Legislation Officer, which is a police officer experienced in dog handling and dog legislation, who assists in the investigation of dog-related allegations of crime.

This ruling has been criticised by animal rights groups, as dogs can be taken and killed based on their looks and size, rather than their behaviour.