Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff) Breed: Info, Pictures, Care & Traits

A Loyal Guardian: The Impressive Fila Brasileiro Breed

When it comes to protective instincts and unwavering loyalty, few breeds can match the impressive Fila Brasileiro. Originating in Brazil as a working dog tasked with tracking and guarding, the Fila is a large and powerful breed not for the inexperienced owner. However, with proper training and socialization, the Fila can be a devoted and affectionate companion fiercely dedicated to its family. Let‘s take a closer look at this remarkable breed.

Breed History
The Fila Brasileiro, meaning "Brazilian Mastiff," traces its roots back to the 15th century in Brazil. The breed is thought to descend from European mastiffs and bloodhounds brought to the country by Portuguese colonists. These dogs were then crossed with local breeds to create a dog well-suited to the tropical climate and rugged terrain of Brazil.

Filas served as working dogs on large plantations and farms, valued for their ability to track down jaguars, cattle, and even escaped slaves. The breed‘s name comes from the Portuguese word "filar," meaning "to hold, arrest, or grab." Indeed, grabbing and holding is the Fila‘s signature move when subduing perceived threats.

The Fila Brasileiro was first recognized as a breed by the Brasil Kennel Club in 1946. The breed standard was established, with the Fila characterized as a large, rectangular, and robust dog with a massive head, strong jaws, and pendulous ears.

Physical Characteristics
The Fila is an imposing sight, standing 24-30 inches tall and weighing anywhere from 90-180 pounds, with males larger than females. The breed has a short, smooth coat that comes in shades of fawn, brindle, and black, sometimes with white markings. The skin is thick and loose, forming wrinkles on the head and neck.

One of the Fila‘s most distinctive features is its long pendulous ears. The ears, along with the breed‘s characteristically sad and serious expression, give the Fila an almost mournful appearance that belies its formidable nature. Broad chests, heavily muscled bodies, and strong bone structure hint at the power contained within these dogs.

Temperament and Training
The Fila Brasileiro is known for its keen awareness, calm disposition, and aversion to strangers. Bred to be a guardian, the Fila is naturally wary and distrustful of unfamiliar people. They have a strong instinct to protect their family and property, and will not hesitate to defend against perceived threats. Early and extensive socialization is critical to help Filas distinguish between friend and foe.

While devoted to their owners, Filas are not typically effusive or demonstrative in their affection. They show their loyalty through vigilant protection rather than cuddles and kisses. Filas tend to bond closely with one or two primary people rather than the whole family.

Given their size, strength, and guardian nature, the Fila requires an experienced owner willing to put significant time into firm, consistent training. Filas are intelligent and perceptive, but they are also strong-willed and can be resistant to commands from those they don‘t respect. It‘s essential to establish clear boundaries and leadership to avoid problems with dominance down the road.

Positive reinforcement methods work best with this sensitive breed. Harsh corrections can damage the trust between dog and owner. Patience is key, as Filas can be slow to mature, both physically and mentally. Ongoing training throughout their lives will be necessary to maintain an obedient and well-mannered Fila.

Exercise and Activity
As a large working breed, the Fila requires plenty of daily exercise to stay physically and mentally fit. Long walks, hikes, and play sessions in a securely fenced area are ideal. Filas may not have the endurance for strenuous activities like running or biking, but they do enjoy swimming.

Mental stimulation is equally important for this intelligent breed. Puzzle toys, scent work, obedience drills, and other engaging activities will help keep a Fila‘s mind active and stave off boredom. A bored Fila with pent-up energy is likely to become destructive or aggressive.

Given their territorialism and dog-reactive tendencies, Filas are not good candidates for dog parks. They are best suited as the only pet in the home or living with a canine companion they have been raised with since puppyhood. Filas can get along with other animals if extensively socialized, but their prey drive may pose risks to small pets.

Health Concerns
Like many large breeds, the Fila Brasileiro is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Responsible breeders screen for these orthopedic issues before breeding. Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus, is another potential concern given the breed‘s deep chest. Avoiding exercise around mealtimes and using puzzle feeders can help reduce the risk.

Other health problems seen in the breed include entropion (inverted eyelids), hypothyroidism, and skin infections fostered by the Fila‘s excess skin folds. Choosing a reputable breeder who conducts health tests on breeding stock is the best way to stack the deck in favor of a healthy pup.

The average lifespan for a Fila Brasileiro is 9-11 years. Good nutrition, regular exercise, and attentive veterinary care can help the breed reach the high end of that range.

Grooming and Care
The Fila‘s short coat is relatively low-maintenance, requiring weekly brushing and the occasional bath to look its best. However, those signature wrinkles and skin folds will need regular cleaning to prevent irritation and infection. A damp cloth can be used to wipe out the folds, followed by a thorough drying.

Pendulous ears should also be checked and cleaned frequently, as they can trap moisture and debris. Nails will need to be trimmed every few weeks, and teeth should be brushed often. Starting these maintenance routines early will help Filas become accustomed to being handled.

Given their large size, Filas require plenty of space to move around freely. A home with a securely fenced yard is ideal. Although relatively mellow indoors, Filas are not suited for apartment living. Access to shade, fresh water, and soft bedding are musts to keep a Fila comfortable.

Family Life and Filas
Despite their formidable appearance, well-socialized Filas can be calm, gentle, and affectionate family dogs. They are generally tolerant and patient with respectful children, though their large size poses risks to toddlers and infants. Interactions between Filas and young kids should always be supervised. As Filas are not naturally playful, they may do best with older children who understand canine body language.

Filas are often one-person or one-family dogs who are polite yet indifferent to welcomed visitors. Their reserved nature and guardian instincts make them poor choices for homes that host frequent guests or social gatherings. A Fila needs to have a quiet space to retreat to when overwhelmed.

At the end of the day, a Fila will be happiest serving as a devoted guardian for their special person or people. They may not demand constant attention, but they thrive on companionship and crave the presence of their trusted humans. Leaving a Fila alone for long workdays is not advisable, as the breed can become anxious or destructive if isolated or bored.

Fila Brasileiro Fun Facts
Did you know the Fila was bred to have a specific gait? The breed‘s movement is described as camel-like, thanks to a characteristic ambling pace. The Fila may look almost clumsy as it strides along, but don‘t be fooled—it can reach incredible speeds of up to 35 miles per hour when chasing down prey.
In 2009, a Fila named Champ made headlines as one of the "most expensive dogs in the world" when he sold for a staggering $400,000. Champ was a particularly fine specimen imported to the U.K. from Brazil by a wealthy London couple. With pedigree Fila pups selling for $3500 and up, Champ was a relative bargain!
Today, it‘s estimated there are only around 3,000 Fila Brasileiros worldwide. Brazil has the highest population, but the breed remains quite rare. Dedicated fanciers are working to promote and protect this remarkable breed in the U.S. and U.K., but ownership laws vary widely by region.

For example, the Fila Brasileiro is one of four breeds banned in the U.K. under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. The law prohibits breeding, sale, exchange, and ownership of Filas without a court-granted exemption. Even then, the dog must be muzzled and kept on a lead in public, registered and insured, and neutered to prevent breeding. Similar restrictions exist in several other countries worldwide.

Finding a Fila
Those seeking to welcome a Fila Brasileiro into their lives will need to do their research to find a responsible breeder, as this is not a common breed. Locating a breeder who upholds the Fila Brasileiro breed standard, conducts appropriate health tests, and invests in early socialization is essential for finding a stable, well-adjusted pup.

Prospective owners should expect to be thoroughly vetted by ethical breeders to ensure they can provide an appropriate home for a Fila. Be wary of anyone offering Fila pups at discounted prices or without proof of health screenings or pedigree. Buying from unscrupulous breeders only perpetuates the proliferation of unhealthy, unsound Filas that further tarnish the breed‘s reputation.

Rescuing an adult Fila is also an option, though it may come with challenges. Filas bond so strongly with their first owners that rehoming can be difficult. Adoptable Filas may have behavior issues stemming from poor socialization or inconsistent training. Working with a breed-savvy rescue group is recommended when considering a Fila in need of a fresh start.

Final Thoughts
The Fila Brasileiro is a complex, powerful breed not to be acquired on a whim. Combining fierce loyalty, strong protection instincts, and an aloof nature, the Fila demands much of its people in terms of training, socialization, and responsible ownership. This is not a breed for novice owners or those unprepared for a lifetime of patient, positive training.

But for experienced dog lovers willing to put in the considerable work required, the Fila Brasileiro can be a deeply devoted companion with unmatched guardian skills. With their strength, smarts, and striking appearance, Filas are sure to turn heads and capture hearts wherever they go. Though these dogs may always be rare, those lucky enough to share their lives with a Fila treasure the breed‘s loyalty, dependability, and larger-than-life presence.