The Brazilian Mastiff is a large dog that was developed in Brazil and was often used as a hunting dog and to track down fugitives. It is known by several names including the Brazilian Mastiff, Fila Brasileiro, Fila, Brazilian Molosser, Cao de Fila and the Brazilian Fila. Brazilian Mastiffs have been in Brazil since about the late 1600s and are thought to be the result of crosses between such breeds as ancient Bloodhounds, Mastiffs and Bulldogs. They were used for many purposes including guarding livestock and property, herding livestock, tracking game, and tracking fugitive slaves. The breed is most known for its dislike of humans they do not know, and this trait is encouraged in many breeding programs today. In fact, as part of the breed's standard, these dogs should openly show suspicion of strangers and attack without being coached to do so. Brazilian Mastiffs must not be gun shy either.
Brazilian Mastiffs are large dogs that can weigh anywhere between 110 and 180 pounds as adults. Males typically weigh more than females. This is a short-haired breed that can come in several colors including fawn, brindle, black and tan, gray, red, silver, and black. These are powerful dogs with long floppy ears, droopy jowls and long tails.
Personality
Brazilian Mastiffs are extremely courageous dogs that do not trust strangers and will not back down when threatened. However, they are also very dedicated to their human family and will do anything necessary to protect them. Due to their size and temperament, if you choose to bring one of these dogs into your home, you will want to begin training at an early age. The Brazilian Mastiff is an impressive dog that is just as powerful as it looks. This is a versatile breed that is used for many purposes including to guard property or livestock, herd livestock, and to track down large game. However, if you choose to add one of these large dogs to your home, you will want to make sure you begin training at a very early age.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 9 - 12 years |
| Nicknames: | The Brazilian Mastiff, Fila Brasileiro, Fila, Brazilian Molosser, Cao de Fila and the Brazilian Fila. |
Fila Brasileiro Build Information
Brazilian Mastiffs are large dogs that can weigh anywhere between 110 and 180 pounds as adults. Males typically weigh more than females. This is a short-haired breed that can come in several colors including fawn, brindle, black and tan, gray, red, silver, and black. These are powerful dogs with long floppy ears, droopy jowls and long tails.
| Size: | Large |
Behaviour and Personality
Brazilian Mastiffs are extremely courageous dogs that do not trust strangers and will not back down when threatened. However, they are also very dedicated to their human family and will do anything necessary to protect them. Due to their size and temperament, if you choose to bring one of these dogs into your home, you will want to begin training at an early age. The Brazilian Mastiff is an impressive dog that is just as powerful as it looks. This is a versatile breed that is used for many purposes including to guard property or livestock, herd livestock, and to track down large game. However, if you choose to add one of these large dogs to your home, you will want to make sure you begin training at a very early age.
| Activity Level: | Very active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Not very friendly |
Appearance
Brazilian Mastiffs are easy to groom and only require an occasional brushing and bathing. Nevertheless, you will want to check its ears regularly for any wax accumulation or signs of infections. Additionally, if the nails grow too long, you will need to clip them with a pliers-type nail clipper taking care not to cut into the veins that grow inside each nail.
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Low Maintenance |
Fila Brasileiro Common Health Conditions
This is a rather short-lived dog that only lives anywhere from nine to 12 years. Additionally, they are known to suffer from a variety of health issues including elbow and hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, cryptorchidism, anesthesia sensitivity, bloat, obesity, progressive retinal atrophy, and skin allergies.
Fila Brasileiro Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
It is illegal to own a Brazilian Mastiff without court approval in the United Kingdom, Denmark, Israel, Cyprus and Malta. The Brazilian Mastiff is rarely seen outside of South America, is restricted in Australia and is classified as a dangerous breed in New Zealand, Trinidad and Tobago. The Fila Brasileiro Club of America was created in 1984.
| Training: | Hard to train |