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Fila Brasileiro

Breed Profile

The Fila Brasileiro also known as the Brazilian Mastiff is a big working breed of dog which was given life in Brazil. The Fila Brasileiro breed was originally bred and raised on vast plantations and cattle farms. They were trained to hunt down jaguars, cattle, other animals, as well as runaway slaves. The dogs would grab the slave or animals by the neck and hold onto them until the farmer appeared. Puppies display this instinct when they are playing.

Temperament

The Brazilian Mastiffs are inherently protective and can be easily trained to become aggressive. It is also known for its extreme distrustfulness of strangers and agility when protecting or defending its master. This extreme faithfulness and obedience of the Fila Brasileiro has permeated the language in Brazil, giving rise to the Brazilian saying “As faithful as a Fila”.

Color & Coat

Coat: The coat is short and dense and the texture is normally smooth and soft.

Color: Their hues range from solid, brindle, mouse grey, to patched, dappled or black and tan. They are practically never white. Typical colours include fawn, black and brindle. Sometimes there is a distinct black mask present.

Living Environment

This breed does not thrive in a city, as its needs a huge fix of daily exercise to work off energy in the countryside. Furthermore, it needs a fenced-in garden with some space to run about. The Fila Brasileiro is comfortable sleeping outdoors if given proper shelter. It is recommendable that strangers not be left unattended with a Fila and, like all other guardian breeds, they may not be the best option for folks who have frequent visitors to their homes. In isolation, this dog breed might not be suitable for kids. However, to reduce the risks, have the puppy grow up alongside with kids so as to make them accustomed to them. Owners should remember that failure to socialize him at an early age, may result in a dog which is very anti-social.

Health

This breed is prone to most large-breed ailments. Owners should be on the lookout for hip dysplasia. As these dogs are prone to bloat, it is advisable to feed two or three small meals a day, instead of one large one. The breed is also prone to CHD, gastric torsion, elbow dysplasia and PRA.