Fila Brasileiro

The Fila Brasilerio also known as Brazilian Mastiff is a working dog. It was developed in Brazil. This breed is a Molosser and is characterized by its large size. It has loose skin and large bones. The Fila Brasilerio requires standard measurements when it comes to its height and weight. For a male the height should be between 25.5 inches to 29.5 inches (65 and 75 cm) at the withers. The weight should be at least 50 kg (100 lbs). For females since they are smaller than the males their height should be 23.5 inches to 27.5 inches (60 to 70 cm). Their weight should be around 40 kg (90 lbs) at the least.

The Fila Brasilerio has a short and smooth coat. Usually they are found in colors like brown, solid black, chestnut, and yellow along with brindled and reddish colors. Certain colors are not accepted , the breed cannot be solid white, mouse-grey, blue or tan. The white markings on the body should not exceed 1/4 of the total coat surface area. The white markings should be prevalent on the chest, feet and the tip of the tail. The breed is an excellent guardian for the estate.

The Fila Brasilerio does not like strangers and does not hide the fact. Thus, these dogs are never disqualified at competitions for being aggressive towards the judges. This kind of aversion comes instinctively to the Fila Brasilerio to an extent where the Brazilian breed standard has advised judges to not touch the dog. However, the dog must not be excessively aggressive and the owner must have some control over it in order to show them in at least public places.

The Fila Brasilerio is not a dog for everyone but it is extremely faithful and loyal to its family and friends. This breed needs an experienced, confident and savvy owner who understands well the innate tendencies of the breed. This breed is not well suited for a busy household that entertains a lot of guests as it does not interact well with strangers. These dogs are thus a natural guardian breed. They strongly bond with the immediate families and owners and are extremely loyal and protective about them. They are known to live to protect the ones they love including other pets and children. There are very few that accept strangers.

It is believed that the Fila Brasileiro has evolved from many breeds, primarily the Mastiff, the Bulldog and the Bloodhound. The breed was originally raised and bred on cattle farms and large plantations. In 1946 the first written standard of the breed was edited. The breed may suffer from hip dysplasia among other health issues. It is illegal in the United Kingdom, Norway and Israel to own these dogs without a specific exemption from the court. The Fila Brasileiro is a restricted breed in Australia. In the sates of Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales to name a few, the Fila Brasileiro is a prescribed or restricted breed. Importing of the breed is also prohibited. They are also classified as dangerous dogs in New Zealand which means that they cannot be imported and the males should not be neutered.