Legends go about the fanatical devotion of this magnificent dog to its owner. There’s even a saying in Brazil: “Faithful, like a fila!” - which fully reflects the uniqueness of the nature of the animal. But not everyone knows the origin of one of the best examples of the dog race. So what kind of breed is this amazing and what is its feature?
History
The origin of the breed of fila brasileiro is not known for certain. However, there are several versions of the history of its appearance.
According to the first version, the breed was formed as a result of a cross between a bulldog, an English mastiff and a bloodhound. This point of view is rational and not without meaning. After all, some of the characteristic features of these three breeds are clearly visible both in the exterior and in the working qualities of the dog.
According to another version, their ancestors are molossians brought to Brazil by the Spanish and Portuguese conquistadors. As a result of mixing these dogs with the local, the breed Brazilian breed appeared.
Description
The official standard of the International Cynological Federation (FCI No. 225) clearly describes all the necessary parameters that determine the exterior, character and other properties of the breed of Brazilian fila. According to this document, these dogs are typical molosses with a powerful skeleton and excellent proportions. The massive body does not interfere with the mobility of the animal. The standard indicates two critical proportions:
- the skull is longer than the muzzle;
- body length (distance from the protruding chest bone to the pelvis) is 10% higher than the height at the withers.
The head of the dog is massive, proportional to the body, the skull is wide. Stop is almost invisible. Saggy upper lip beautifully overlaps the lower. The bite is straight or scissor. A dog’s eyes can be either medium or large. The form is almond-shaped. Eye color varies from yellow to brown. Slightly saggy lower eyelids give the face a sad and somewhat detached expression. The ears are large, hanging.
Size and weight | Height at the withers (cm) | Weight, kg) |
| Males | 65-75 | from 50 |
| Bitches | 60-70 | from 40 |
The bones of the forelimbs are more powerful than the hind limbs.
An important sign of the breed is the free skin of the animal, forming a suspension on the neck and stomach. The Brazilian Fila is a dog with thick and short hair. The color can be monophonic or brindle, white marks on the chest, legs and tip of the tail are allowed.
Deviations from the standard
If there are any deviations from the standard in the exterior or behavior of the dog, this is considered a drawback. A Brazilian fila with pronounced deviations is even subject to disqualification.
Disadvantages:
- short muzzle;
- small or high set ears;
- very light eye color;
- folds on the skull;
- arched back;
- narrow croup (posterior lobe of the body);
- short step.
Vices:
- indifference;
- small head;
- short upper lip;
- round or convex eyes;
- straight or humpbacked back;
- too tight stomach;
- weak skeleton;
- many white marks on the dog's body;
- excessively high growth.
Temperament
You can talk about this beautiful dog endlessly. Special attention should be paid to the character of Fila Brazilian dogs. There is an opinion that dogs of this breed are extremely aggressive and ferocious. In this statement there is a rational kernel. Since in ancient times this dog was used to protect slaves, as well as for hunting predatory animals, the ability to attack is inherent in its genes.
In many countries, acquiring this animal without a special license, as a weapon, simply does not work. Of course, these dogs are extremely distrustful of strangers, but for no reason they never attack anyone. To provoke a dog to aggressive behavior can only be a danger to the owner, whom she simply idolizes. The dog is great for all members of the family and loves small children.
Characteristic diseases
The Fila Brazilian dog, despite its excellent health, can still have problems with the gastrointestinal tract. That is why it is not recommended to overfeed it. It is better to give the dog food several times a day, but in small portions. In animals, in addition to problems with the intestines, ischemia and eye diseases occur.
Content
The dog feels great both in a city apartment and in a country house. Of course, dogs will be more comfortable at their summer cottage. If you plan to keep the dog in the apartment, you need to walk around the city with him daily for his adaptation. Otherwise, it may happen that the animal suddenly encounters aggression when meeting with strangers.
There is nothing complicated in caring for this breed. It is only necessary to monitor the condition of the skin and wipe the folds from time to time. The eyes of the dog should also be washed with chamomile infusion or tea.
Feeding
The diet of the dog should consist mainly of meat, since it is the main source of animal protein. You need to feed the dog with vegetables, fruits, cereals, seafood, cottage cheese and chicken eggs. The dog should be given vitamins and minerals in pill or drop form. Cabbage, legumes, sausages and smoked meats, pickled vegetables and various sweets should be completely excluded from the diet.
Dog Reviews
Judging by the enthusiastic reviews of the breeders and owners, the Brazilian mastiff is almost the most ideal guard dog, ready to protect its owner to the last drop of blood. The animal is endowed with an extremely strong innate instinct of the guard, which can hardly be found in representatives of other breeds. It is generally accepted that the training of this dog should not be handled by a dog trainer, but by the owner himself. With this approach, during training, any aggression by the dog is completely ruled out.
Breeders recommend starting this breed only to serious and responsible people. Indeed, in bad hands, such a smart dog, characterized by an excellent nervous system, can become a dangerous weapon. And for those people who sincerely love animals and take their upbringing and maintenance very seriously, Fila Brazil will become a faithful and devoted friend, a reliable guard and a nanny for children.