Family: Mastiff
Breed Group: Mastiff
Origin: Brazil
Date of Origin: 17th century
Originally used for: Guarding, herding, dog fighting
Used today: Farm dog, guard dog, companion
Other Name(s): Brazilian Mastiff, Brazilian Molosser, Cao de Fila
History of the Breed: The Fila Brasileiro is a native Brazilian dog that can be traced back to Brazil's colonial beginnings.
The large and powerful breed was developed to herd and guard livestock from predators like Jaguars. The breed likely originated from a cross
between Old English Mastiff, the Bloodhound, and the Old English Bulldog. The Fila Brasileiro is the National dog of Brazil.
General Appearance: A massive and heavyset powerful breed with large bone structure and a deep chested rectangular body.
The dog has a unique cat like walk.
Height & Weight:
Height 23.5 - 29.5 inches
Weight 90-110 pounds
Coat: Smooth and short, the whole body is covered in thick loose skin pronounced at the neck and in many dogs theses folds proceed
to the chest and abdomen.
Color: Solid yellow, reddish, tans, and brindled colors are acceptable
Grooming needs: Low
Temperament of Breed: He is a patient and gentle family dog with the immediate family, but does not take to strangers and should never be left unattended with casual acquaintances, strangers or anyone he does not regard as part of his immediate family.
Friendly with children: Only with immediate family, this breed can be extremely aggressive to strangers
Friendly with other dogs: Only if properly socialized
Suitability as a watchdog: Yes
Exercise Level: Moderate
Health Issues with the Breed:
Major: Elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, bloat
Minor:
Life Expectancy: 8 to 12 years
2006 AKC Ranking: Not Ranked
First Registered by the AKC: Not Registered
Registries: FCI, CKC, NKC, APRI, ACR
ACR -American Canine Registry
APRI -American Pet Registry Inc.
CKC -Continental Kennel Club
CKC -Canadian Kennel Club
FCI -Fédération Cynologique Internationale
NKC -National Kennel Club
Breed Organizations & Associations:
Fila Brasileiro Club of America
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