| Training | |
| Sensitivity to strangers | |
| Affection for family | |
| Suitable for first-time owners | |
| Ease of grooming | |
| Energy level |
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The Fila Brasileiro also known as Brazilian Mastiff, is one of the most loyal existing dog breeds, it is also considered one of the best guardian dogs in the World.
The Fila Brasileiro is well-known for being an extremely noble dog, its origins are from Brazil, where there is a popular phrase that says “faithful like a Fila”; this dog is always after its owner and constantly looking for its company. The Fila Brasileiro is also known as Brazilian Mastiff, and it is used for different purposes, but mostly as a guardian dog.
This dog breed was created by crossing the Old English Bulldog, the Neapolitan Mastiff and the Bloodhound, this is the reason the Fila has the best qualities of its ancestors. We are talking about a visually stunning dog, with powerful features, a flawless sense of smell and a harmonious temperament.
In some countries a license is needed to have a Fila Brasileiro, as it is considered a dangerous dog breed. This permission must have liability insurance for third parties and establishes that the dog cannot go for walks without a leash under any circumstances.
Fila Brasileiro: Origins
This dog breed was raised in Brazil back in the 19th century to protect plantations and herds from some predators, like jaguars. People say that it was also used to chase and retrieve slaves that were trying to escape from their landowners.
Besides being a guardian dog, the Fila Brasileiro is a hunting dog thanks to its extraordinary sense of smell; it tracks and keeps the prey until the hunter arrives. Nowadays this dog breed is used for security purposes in the countryside and by the police, or simply as a companion dog.
This dog breed is more popular in Brazil and was officially recognized by the FCI back in 1960.
Fila Brasileiro: Physical Characteristics
The Fila Brasileiro is a giant-sized dog, harmonious, well-proportioned, well-muscled and strong. When this dog reaches adulthood its height can be between 23-29 inches (60-75 cm) and can weigh around 88-110 lb (40-50 kg). It is a striking animal, and although it has a huge body structure, the Fila Brasileiro is incredibly flexible and agile.
This dog breed has a wide neck and head, long ears that softly hang by the sides of its face. The eyes are almond-shaped and big; the muzzle is long and it has a very strong bite.
The skin and coat are very striking characteristics of the Fila Brasileiro, it has thick, shiny and soft hair, it can be brindle, tawny or black-colored; sometimes we can find Filas with a black mask on the face and white spots on the chest, paws and tail. Also it has a thick and loose skin around the neck with creases or wrinkles similar to the Shar Pei.
The Fila Brasileiro has a peculiar and unique gait, and we can compare it to a camel, as sometimes it moves its paws from the same side at the same time. But also, it could remind us of a lion with its elegant, slow but powerful attitude.
Fila Brasileiro: Temperament
This dog has a faithful temperament with its owner and family; it is patient and affectionate with children. As we mentioned before the Fila Brasileiro is a self-confident and protective dog, for this reason it is considered one of the best guardian dogs, also because just its physical aspect might drive away any threats or intruders.
Socialization since puppyhood is really important for giant dog breeds, especially to live in families with children.
Because of its great power and strength, the Fila Brasileiro must be well-trained to avoid accidents and hazardous situations, especially because it has an intense protective instinct to its family and territory.
The Fila Brasileiro is determined and brave; these characteristics are visible since puppyhood, when it starts to explore and feel adventurous; a Fila puppy is a curious little detective. This dog breed is used for hunting and also as a guardian dog; many people raise this dog as a shepherd dog for its natural instinct for this type of task.
Having a Fila Brasileiro in your family means having a sentinel willing to always protect you, and also it is a giant teddy bear that will fill you with love and care. It is impossible to not fall in love with this giant and brave fluffy dog.
Fila Brasileiro: Health and Feeding
Generally, this is a healthy dog breed and besides its size it does not have a tendency to develop hip dysplasia as other large or giant-sized dog breeds.
The Fila Brasileiro does not need too much care; just brushing and regular baths will keep its fur clean and shiny.
Feeding is a very important aspect of the Fila Brasileiro; first of all it needs a lot of exercise and a proper diet, otherwise your dog would be prone to obesity and gastric torsion due to excessive eating. We must remember that obesity might bring along some complex issues in your fluffy friend’s organism, as well problems in its bones and joints.
We recommend giving your Fila Brasileiro the proper portion of dog food which varies between 2500 and 2700 calories per day and should be divided in two or three daily portions. Feeding a giant dog breed is not an easy job; it requires a lot of effort keeping your pet healthy. You can consult your veterinarian about some vitamins and minerals supplements to add to your dog’s diet. It is also important to mention that the Fila Brasileiro must be always hydrated as it is a very thirsty dog; you should always leave your dog a big bowl of water to enjoy.
An important aspect you must keep in mind whenever you decide to adopt one of these giant beauties is the economic cost that its feeding requires. The Fila Brasileiro could have up to 1.6 lb (750 gr) of dry dog food per day.
Fila Brasileiro: Breeders, Price, and Puppies for Sale
A puppy of this adorable giant dog breed might cost between 900-1500 dollars, around 800-1300 English pounds. As you can see the price is not cheap, but it will include the pedigree and all the necessary documentation that certifies its origins from good studs.
In this section you can find the best registered breeders in countries such as: the US, Canada and UK; but also Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Canada, Scotland, India and South Africa; where you can find all the information you need. It is imperative to purchase from a reliable breeder, to insure that your puppy has been:
- Raised to have good character and good health;
- Carefully selected (its parents were chosen without any genetic diseases);
- Properly socialized, so that it is not too aggressive or fearful;
- Vaccinated and well-cared for.
Now that we have mentioned the most important aspects, you can go to your new four-legged friend, who is certainly waiting for you.
You may be interested in reading another article related to other dog breeds such as:
- Eurasier
- Bergamasco Sheepdog
- Saarloos Wolfdog
- Akita
- Landseer
- Kuvasz
- Fila Brasileiro
- Dogue de Bordeaux
