The Uruguayan wild dog, the molosser descended from the dogs of Spanish and Portuguese conquerors

The origin of the wild dog is uncertain, although it is known to be descended from dogs brought by the Spanish and Portuguese conquistadors . Abandoned in South American lands, the animals survived and adapted through strict natural selection that favored the most resilient and cunning specimens. The result of this adaptation was a robust, territorial dog with a strong survival instinct, which even threatened local livestock farming during the 18th century, leading to its persecution and systematic extermination .

Over time, however, their value was recognized by local residents, who began capturing them and employing them as guard dogs and livestock workers. After years of marginalization, several Uruguayan breeders began working toward their recovery and standardization in the 1980s.

Canine History of America: The Mark of Dogs on Colonization

In 2006, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale granted it official breed recognition. It has also been listed in the United Kennel Club (UKC) since that same year; however, the American Kennel Club (AKC) has not yet included it in its registry . Despite this absence, the Cimarron maintains an active presence in its country of origin and in other Latin American countries, and is also beginning to expand tentatively throughout Europe .

Today, it is a national symbol and mascot of the Uruguayan Army, occupying a prominent place in military parades on July 18.

Protective and distrustful of strangers

Although most images available online show animals with cropped ears, it is important to remember that this practice, while still permitted in countries like Uruguay , has been strictly prohibited in Spain and other member countries of the European Convention on the Protection of Companion Animals since 2018.

Regarding its temperament, the Uruguayan Cimarrón is described as a brave, loyal, and extremely protective dog. Properly socialized, it can coexist without problems with other animals and people of all ages, but its territorial nature and distrust of strangers make it a guard dog to be reckoned with. This same determination makes it not a recommended breed for first-time owners or those without a solid understanding of the breed and its canine nature.

Breed experts also highlight its emotional balance. It's a very stable dog, unlikely to be startled or show impulsive reactions. It needs daily exercise, appropriate to its size, and an environment where it can channel its energy in a healthy way.

Regarding health, the Cimarrón has a genetic predisposition to hip dysplasia, so it is recommended to purchase specimens only from responsible breeders who perform orthopedic tests on their breeding stock. For more information, please contact the International Cynological Federation or the Uruguayan Cimarrón Breeders Society , based in Montevideo.