Fila Brasileiro: Loving, Loyal, Courageous

The Fila Brasileiro is believed to be descendants of the 15th century English Mastiff, Bloodhound, and Bulldog. The Fila inherited the loose skin and sense of smell from the Bloodhound, as well as superb tracking ability. It gets its body, courage and very alert disposition from the Mastiff. The Bulldog contributed its unforgiving temperament.

The Fila Brasileiro is a large working breed of dog from Brazil, where it is the National Dog. In Brazil it was used to hunt jaguars, protect goldmines, jungle warfare and when slavery was legal in Brazil, to catch run away slaves and bring them back unharmed.

They were found mainly on large plantations and cattle farms. They can run 35 miles per hour, catch hogs, are great search dogs and control and track livestock and large game. When the Fila finds its masters game, it does not attack it, but holds it in bay until the master arrives.

Being extremely dedicated to its owner, being powerful and courageous, a Fila will protect without hesitation. Once a Fila bonds with a master and there family, they become his world, he protects you on his own, he does not have to be taught this.

They make great family pets, and are very loving, loyal, and gentle. They are known to take a lot of abuse from children in there masters family. They will also bond with other pets in the house.

The Fila needs a dominate owner who understands the breed, and proper socialization. Around four months of age a Fila puppy will not want the attention of strangers, only of family and its master. This means that the socializing is over. The Fila will always look for the company of its master.

They are bold dogs and very weary of strangers, thus making it not well suited for household with a lot of in and out traffic and guests. Such aggression as this is instinctive in this breed. The Fila needs an long introduction time to warm up with others they do not know, and even then they still may not accept them.

This breed is banned in some countries due to its size and potential for aggression. See the Dangerous Dog Acts 1991 for more details.