Fila Brasileiro Dog: Origin, Characteristics and Care Tips
Dogs make great companions, and their loyalty is unmatched. Some of them are bred as guardians because of their intelligence, obedience and protective instincts. One such breed is the Fila Brasileiro. Known for its imposing figure and immense power, this breed is not for the faint-hearted. In this article, we will explore the history, characteristics, care tips and other interesting facts about Fila Brasileiro Dog.
Fila Brasileiro Dog History
Also known as the Brazilian Mastiff, the Fila Brasileiro Dog originated in Brazil. It was bred by Portuguese colonizers and used to hunt wild boars, capture runaway slaves and protect estates. The breed is a mix of several European dogs, including Mastiffs, Bulldogs and Bloodhounds. Despite its impressive history, the Fila Brasileiro Dog was nearly extinct in the 1970s. However, through careful breeding and preservation efforts, the breed was revived, and it is now a popular working dog in Brazil and other parts of the world.
Fila Brasileiro Dog Breed Characteristics
The Fila Brasileiro Dog is a large, muscular dog breed with a short coat and a distinctive wrinkled forehead. Males can weigh up to 200 pounds while females can weigh up to 150 pounds. The breed has a short, smooth coat which comes in various shades of fawn, black and brindle. Its powerful jaws and fierce bark make it an excellent guard dog, and it is also highly territorial.
Fila Brasileiro Dog Intelligence
The Fila Brasileiro is an intelligent breed that’s quick to learn and respond to commands. However, it can be stubborn and independent, so it requires consistent training and socialization from an early age.
Fila Brasileiro Dog Average Size
The Fila Brasileiro is a large breed, and males can stand up to 29 inches tall while females can reach up to 26 inches. Males can weigh up to 200 pounds while females weigh approximately 150 pounds.
Fila Brasileiro Dog Child Friendly
Although the breed is protective, it can be good with children if properly socialized. However, due to its large size, it can accidentally knock over small children, so it’s advisable to supervise when around kids.
Fila Brasileiro Dog Health Needs
Like any other breed, Fila Brasileiro dogs are prone to certain health issues that you should be aware of. Some of these issues include hip dysplasia, bloat, heart problems and eye diseases. Regular vet checkups, proper nutrition, and exercise can help keep your Fila Brasileiro in good health.
Fila Brasileiro Dog Grooming Needs
The Fila Brasileiro has a short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming. They only require occasional brushing to remove dead hair and maintain their coat in a clean condition.
Fila Brasileiro Dog Amount Of Shedding
The Fila Brasileiro sheds moderately. Shedding increases during seasonal changes, but regular brushing can help minimize loose hair strands around the house.
Fila Brasileiro Dog Trainability
Training a Fila Brasileiro requires patience and consistency. The breed responds well to positive reinforcement training methods like clicker training and reward-based training. It’s important to keep training sessions short and engaging to avoid boredom or frustration.
Fila Brasileiro Dog Exercise Needs
The Fila Brasileiro Dog has high energy levels and requires plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. A daily walk or two and some playtime in a fenced-in area or backyard should suffice. However, avoid over-exercising your dog as it can lead to exhaustion and injury.
Fila Brasileiro Dog Average Lifespan
The Fila Brasileiro Dog has an average lifespan of 9 to 11 years if properly cared for with the required health checks and regular exercise.
In conclusion, the Fila Brasileiro Dog is a powerful, loyal breed with a rich history and unique characteristics. It requires proper training, socialization, and regular exercise to keep it happy and healthy. With the right care and attention, this breed can make a great addition to any family.