Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff) Dog Breed Information

Posted on Nov 22, 2019, Modified : Nov 14, 2019 Zina

Breeds

Fila Brasileiro, which is also popularly known as Brazilian Mastiff or Cão de Fila Brasileiro is a large-sized dog breed. It is best known for its hunting ability through scent. It is a strong, muscular molosser type dog breed with big, heavy bones and loose skin. It has quite an accurate resemblance to the English Mastiff.

Fila Brasileiro dog breed is only suitable in a house with an experienced dog owner who knows its behavior and temperament. A novice cannot get along with this breed as they will not be able to handle its energy and strength.

Origin and History

Fila Brasileiro was originated in Brazil as a hunting dog as well as a guardian dog. They were used for protecting properties from thieves, livestock from jaguar and other predators, and hunted down escapees by holding them till the master arrives during slavery time.

There is a theory that this dog breed is created through the combination of Bloodhound, English Mastiff, and Old Bulldog. However, there is no proof to support this theory. The FCI and the UKC have recognized this breed under the Mastiff group and Guardian Dog group respectively.

Temperament, Behavior, and Personality

Temperament: The temperament of the Fila Brasileiro is docile, gentle, affectionate, and very protective. They are a very territorial and fierce protector. They do not trust any strangers in their territory or around their people. Therefore, early socialization is very important for them.

Fila Brasileiro protecting its master.

Behavior: Fila Brasileiro is a very active and enthusiastic dog breed that needs a good amount of exercise. They are happy and content when they have a job to do. If they get bored, they tend to get destructive and anxious. Therefore, take them for regular exercise or provide them with a physical job.

Personality: The personality of the Fila Brasileiro is independent, friendly and gentle with family but suspicious and distrustful of strangers. They have a mind of their own and like to do things on their own which makes training challenging. Since they are a guarding dog by nature, they are best in a house with fewer visitors.

Trainability

Fila Brasileiro is a challenging dog to train as they are very independent, smart, and need an experienced dog owner. They need both physical and mental challenges and repetitive tricks and commands will bore them. Start with basic training and gradually move to advance.

They tend to respond well to a positive method of training, so reward them with delicious treats and lots of vocal praises. It will help to keep them motivated and encouraged.

Is Fila Brasileiro Child-Friendly?

Fila Brasileiro gets along well with family kids but with unfamiliar children, they need to be kept far away. Keep them on a leash whenever you are taking them out. They need early socialization with children and always supervise their interaction.

A baby and Fila Brasileiros Sitting.
Image Source: Instagram-@filobrazilyero_natalia

Facts

Fila Brasileiro has not yet been recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Health Issues

Fila Brasileiro is a healthy dog breed in general but can face few of the canine health problems.

Gastric Torsion: It is a condition that fills the stomach of your dog with gas and makes it seem like a balloon. It is a normal chance after eating something improper. However, sometimes it can get worse, so feed your dog a balanced diet.
Hip Dysplasia: Hip Dysplasia can be seen in Fila Brasileiro, so before buying a puppy from a breeder, check for its parent’s health issues. It causes mild pain on the back which later gets worse if no precaution is taken.