Fila Brasileiro
The Fila Brasileiro, also known as the Brazilian Mastiff, was developed in Brazil probably from local dogs crossed with Spanish Mastiffs, Portuguese Mastiffs and probably Bloodhounds. It was originally bred to guard flocks and its master's property. It is very versatile, can withstand great variation in climate, and so has been used as flock guardian and herder, hunter of big cats, and police dog. It was introduced to the USA in the early 1980's.
Height: Males are 27-29.5" (68.5-75 cm), with females somewhat shorter.
Weight: Males weigh at least 110 lbs (50 kg), with females being a bit lighter.
Coat Type: The coat is short and dense.
Temperament: The Fila Brasileiro, has a natural aversion to strangers, and so makes an unsurpassed and fierce guard dog. It should therefore be socialized and trained at an early age by an experienced dog person. They are generally judged "hands-off"; with proper training, this intelligent dog can be trained to accept strangers touching it when with an experienced dog handler. It is known for its courage and loyalty. It is one of the breeds listed in the Dangerous Dog Act (1991) in Great Britain.
Special Interest: The Fila Brasileiro has a two-beat pace, like a camel's. In Brazil, the Fila works with the tiny Brazilian Terrier; the Terrier works as an alert-dog, gives the signal by barking, and if the situation is serious, the Fila takes over.
Classifications:
AKC: Not recognized
CKC: Group 8 - Miscellaneous Class
KC: Not recognized
FCI: Group 2
ANKC: Not recognized
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