Introduction
The Fila Brasileiro, also known as the Brazilian Mastiff, is a large and powerful dog breed that originated in Brazil. They were originally bred for hunting and guarding, but have since become popular as a loyal and protective family pet. In this article, we will explore the breed characteristics, history, personality, and how to care for your Fila Brasileiro.
Breed Characteristics “Fila Brasileiro”
The Fila Brasileiro is a large and muscular breed, with males standing at 26-30 inches tall and females at 24-28 inches. They weigh between 90-110 pounds and have a short, thick coat that comes in a variety of colors such as black, fawn, and brindle. Their most distinct feature is their loose skin, which gives them a wrinkled appearance. They also have a large, square-shaped head with powerful jaws and a deep bark.
Fila Brasileiros are known for their loyalty and protective nature. They are extremely devoted to their family and will do whatever it takes to protect them. They are also very intelligent and trainable, but require a firm and consistent hand during training. Due to their size and strength, early socialization and obedience training are essential.
Unfortunately, the Fila Brasileiro has been classified as a “dangerous breed” in some countries due to their history as a guard dog and their potential for aggression towards strangers. It is important to do extensive research before deciding to bring a Fila Brasileiro into your home.
Highlights about “Fila Brasileiro”
The Fila Brasileiro is a very versatile breed and can excel in a variety of activities such as obedience, agility, and even therapy work. They are also excellent watchdogs and will alert their family to any potential danger. Despite their size and strength, they are surprisingly agile and can move quickly when needed.
While they are protective of their family, they are also very affectionate and love to be near their loved ones. They are not recommended for families with small children, as their size and strength can be too much for young kids to handle. They also require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
Overall, the Fila Brasileiro is a unique and fascinating breed that requires a dedicated and experienced owner.
History of “Fila Brasileiro”
The Fila Brasileiro has a long and storied history in Brazil. They were originally bred by European settlers in the 16th century to help with hunting, herding, and guarding. They were also used as a slave hunter, which unfortunately tarnished their reputation and led to their classification as a dangerous breed.
Despite their controversial past, the Fila Brasileiro remains a beloved breed in Brazil and around the world. They are still used as a working dog in some parts of the world, but have also become popular as a companion animal.
Size “Fila Brasileiro”
The Fila Brasileiro is a large and muscular breed, with males standing at 26-30 inches tall and females at 24-28 inches. They weigh between 90-110 pounds and have a powerful build. Their size and strength make them excellent guard dogs, but also requires a dedicated owner who can handle their needs.
Personality of “Fila Brasileiro”
The Fila Brasileiro is a loyal and protective breed that thrives on human companionship. They are intelligent and trainable, but require a strong and consistent hand during training. They are not recommended for novice dog owners, as their size and strength can be intimidating.
They are also known for their affectionate nature and love to be near their family. However, they can be reserved or even aggressive towards strangers if not properly socialized. Early socialization and obedience training are essential for this breed.
How to Keep Health “Fila Brasileiro”
The Fila Brasileiro is a relatively healthy breed, but like all dogs, they are prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common health issues in this breed include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart disease.
To keep your Fila Brasileiro healthy, it is important to provide them with regular exercise, a healthy diet, and routine veterinary care. As with all large breeds, it is important to monitor their weight and prevent obesity, as this can lead to joint problems and other health issues.
How to Care “Fila Brasileiro”
The Fila Brasileiro has a short, thick coat that is relatively easy to care for. They do shed, especially during the spring and fall, so regular brushing is recommended to keep their coat healthy and shiny.
They also require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. A fenced yard is recommended for this breed, as they are prone to chasing after small animals and can be difficult to control off-leash.
Feed for “Fila Brasileiro”
The Fila Brasileiro requires a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their size and activity level. They should be fed a balanced diet that is rich in protein and other essential nutrients.
It is important to monitor their weight and adjust their diet accordingly, as this breed is prone to obesity. Overfeeding can also lead to joint problems and other health issues.
Coat Color And Grooming for “Fila Brasileiro”
The Fila Brasileiro has a short, thick coat that comes in a variety of colors such as black, fawn, and brindle. They do shed, especially during the spring and fall, so regular brushing is recommended to keep their coat healthy and shiny.
Bathing should be done as needed, but not too frequently as this can strip their coat of its natural oils. It is also important to clean their ears regularly and trim their nails as needed.
Conclusion
The Fila Brasileiro is a unique and fascinating breed that requires a dedicated and experienced owner. They are loyal and protective of their family, but can be reserved or even aggressive towards strangers if not properly socialized. Early socialization and obedience training are essential for this breed, as well as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and routine veterinary care.