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First Impressions
A strong, short coated mastiff type breed, with hind legs longer than the forelegs.
The History Of The Fila Brasileiro
Also known as Brazilian Mastiff and originated in Brazil during the 19th century.
The Fila developed as an all-around working dog and descended from Portuguese herding dogs that were introduced in colonial times. They were bred from English Mastiffs, old style Bulldogs, and Bloodhounds resulting in a powerful, brave cattle dog. Its other talents included hunting jaguar, driving cattle and latterly as a police tracker dog.
Relatively unknown outside of its native Brazil. It has a reputation for being fierce and has been banned in England under the Dangerous Dogs Act.
Description Of The Fila Brasileiro
The triangular ears hang flat against the face. The tail is of medium length and is not altered.
Its Bloodhound lineage is apparent in the long muzzle, hanging skin and its renowned tracking ability. The heavy muzzle has pendulous top lips giving it the appearance of a Mastiff. The neck is thick and with dewlap.
The skin is thick and loose all over the body, forming pronounced dew laps at the neck and in many continuing over the chest and abdomen. Some dogs may have a fold at the side of the head and at the withers down to the shoulders.
The breed averages 25.5 - 29.5 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 90 - 110 lb.
Coat & Grooming
The short, dense coat is harsh to the touch. All colors and combinations are allowed except for solid white. Brindle is the most commonly found.
The coat is easy to groom with a firm bristle brush and a wipe over with a piece of toweling or chamois leather to bring out their shine. Bathe or dry shampoo as necessary. They are average shedders.
Temperament
This is a brave and powerful Mastiff that is a loyal and protective companion. Extremely dedicated to his owner. It is the breeds nature to be loyal and protective of his family. This trait is known as "Ojeriza". They are reputed to be very caring towards children in their family and will tolerate plenty of abuse from them.
Life Expectancy and Health
The average lifespan for a Fila Brasileiro is around 9-11 years.
Reported health problems are: hip dysplasia, bloat (feed three small meals a day, instead of one large one), CHD, gastric torsion, elbow dysplasia and PRA.
Please read our page on health problems by clicking here.
Preferred Environment and Exercise Requirements
Not suited to city live they need the freedom of the country to work off their excess of energy. They need a fenced yard with room to run. Happy to sleep outdoors given a proper shelter.
Summary
Bold, aggressive and dominant, they need an experienced, dominant owner. Professional obedience training is essential to get a puppy under control. Check with your insurance agent before purchasing a puppy that you can get insurance cover. Need protecting from those who will steal them for dog fighting.
:: Fila Brasileiro Training ::
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