Fila Brasileiro

The Fila Brasileiro or Cao de Brasil, is a breed of dog with an incredibly complex past. Colonist plantation owners in the area used these large dogs as protection from predators such as jaguars and for hunting livestock like cattle; yet, unfortunately they were also employed to locate escaped enslaved people and pin them down until their owners arrived.

Despite their immense size, often weighing up to 180 pounds, Fila Brasileiro guard dogs are highly agile and can reach speeds of up to 35 MPH when chasing down intruders. However, they have the ability to shift into a calm state while spending time with family members at home.

Although we cannot say with certainty, it is assumed that the Portuguese Mastiff were imported to Brazil in order to create the Fila Brasileiro. Additionally, many believe that a Bloodhound was added for its remarkable tracking capabilities as well as an English Mastiff and Old English Bulldog for potential aggressiveness.

The Fila Brasileiro’s coat should adhere to FCI standards, boasting brindle, fawn or black hues. While a white marking may not meet breed standard it won’t hamper their hearty loyalty and protection prowess in any way. This short-haired variety of pup requires weekly brushing and regular baths to keep its coat glossy; unfortunately they also shed often making them an unsuitable pet for allergy sufferers.

The Fila Brasileiro is a powerful purebred breed, requiring an experienced owner for its successful care. Fiercely loyal to their owners and instinctively distrustful of strangers, early socialization is necessary to ensure the Brazilian Mastiff remains friendly with guests or unfamiliar people it may encounter in daily life. For just a select few, this intimidating yet rewarding dog can make an excellent companion.

Despite its size, the Fila Brasileiro is full of energy and needs sprawling areas to run around in. Fenced-in yards are ideal for this large dog breed, as it can be difficult to burn off all that extra energy when confined within small spaces such as apartments or condos – even for those who have plenty of experience with dogs.

Training a Fila Brasileiro requires true grit and patience; they will only obey commands from an individual that has earned their loyalty, trust, and respect since puppyhood. It’s essential to demonstrate your dominance as the owner in order for this breed of dog to follow instructions properly.

Despite the Fila Brasileiro’s fierce reputation, with proper training and socialization, it can become an excellent companion to kids in your household. However, be sure to establish clear boundaries for your children interacting with this large breed as they may not get along well with other visiting playmates. When it comes to other animals in the house, these dogs do just fine when paired up with fellow dogs of their size but tend to regard smaller creatures as potential targets.

The Fila Brasileiro’s short coat barely requires any upkeep apart from a timely brushing to get rid of dead fur, however other grooming procedures are important and should be introduced early on in the pup’s life. Claw cutting, toothbrushing, as well as cleaning around their facial folds must all begin when they’re still young so that it is easier for them to become accustomed with these tasks. Ignoring such vital maintenance could result in potential disagreement later down the line between adult dog and owner.

  • Furlyfe Rank
  • Group AKC AKC Not Recognized
  • Origin Brazil
  • Size Large, Giant
  • Weight 90 to 100 pounds
  • Coat Length Short
  • Colors Black,Brindle,Red,Yellow
  • Other Names Brazilian Mastiff, Brazilian Molosser, Cão de Fila
  • Temperament Brave,Courageous,Determined,Docile,Loyal,Obedient

Breed Characteristics

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