Fila brasileiro

Overall description of the breed

The Fila Brasileiro is a breed of dog with ancestral origins, coming straight from Brazil, the true origins of this powerful hound are subject to many controversies. Some specialists maintain that it is descended from Asian Mastiffs or Dogue-type dogs, or even that it has been influenced by Bloodhounds, better known as St. Hubert's dogs. However, others believe that its ancestors are attack or catch dogs, imported into Brazil by the Dutch in the 17th century to hunt the indigenous population.

However, some of its ancestors can be traced back to South America as early as the 16th century, when it was used as a guard dog to ensure the safety of livestock. The breed standard was established in 1946 by veterinarians Santos Cruz, Erwin, Valdemar Rathsan and João Ebner, who had been passionate about the dog for many years. It took more than fifteen years for it to be officially recognised by the International Cynological Federation on 01 January 1960, the last update of the official standard in force was published on 29 September 2016.

The Fila Brasileiro takes its name from the word "Filar" which means "to take or catch" in Portuguese, the Brazilian Mastiff by its other name, is an excellent catching dog, with a particularly developed protective instinct, as well as an outstanding guard dog. His imposing appearance and confident temperament give him a great deal of presence, which enables him to be a deterrent in the event of a confrontation.

Slightly longer than he is tall, his body is rectangular and his limbs are powerful and agile. Despite his large size, he has exceptional speed, his chest is broad, his chest deep, associated with a neck and shoulders stocky, it is a formidable athlete! His head is massive, the muzzle moderately long, with a little marked stop. The coat is short, silky and thick, all colours are permitted in the breed standard except blue, mouse grey, tan, black and solid white, white markings are permitted on the feet, chest and tip of the tail. White spots on the rest of the coat are a fault.

Like any self-respecting dog, the Fila Brasileiro is a family dog, always tender and pleasant in his home, however, he is very wary of people he does not know, excellent guard, his protective instinct is extremely pronounced. It is an animal with a strong character, and is not recommended as a first dog or for inexperienced owners.

Its education must be strict while preserving a certain flexibility, an iron hand in a velvet glove are the key words to impose its authority in front of its imposing size, without inflexible hierarchy, it could quickly become uncontrollable for a novice owner. A player at heart, the Brazilian Mastiff greatly appreciates playful activities, but its large size and weight do not necessarily allow it to practice long periods of intense effort.

Gifted as a hunter, tracker at heart, his remarkable flair and physical abilities make him a versatile worker, used by the Brazilian police, his many qualities are no longer in need of demonstration. Powerful, confident and loyal, he is a generous companion who will do his utmost to bring you joy, protection and satisfaction in your daily life.

Adult: The Fila Brasileiro will weigh approximately 130 lbs for males and 99 lbs for females, with a height at the withers of approximately 24.8" to 29.5" for males and 23.6" to 27.5" for females