Mary Allen
The Fila is believed to be related to the Bloodhound. This was taken to South America by the Portuguese and Spanish, where it mingled with local Great Danes and other dogs. Find out everything about the behavior, character, activity, and exercise needs, training, and care of the Fila Brasileiro dog breed in the profile. The result is the Fila, which was used as a guard, tracker, and livestock guard dog.
General Appearance
The body is strong and rectangular in build, the overall physique appears muscular, broad, and deep, and is covered with thick and loose skin. Adding to its heaviness is easily recognizable agility. The coat is short, smooth, dense, and tight-fitting to the body. Except for white, mousy grey, spotted and tricolor, all colors are allowed, including brindle and with or without a black mask.
Behavior and character
Fila is self-confident and loves his family very much. He will protect and keep together people and animals belonging to his pack. A significant part of his characteristics is courage, determination, and outstanding bravery. He is docile to his owner and their family and extremely tolerant of children. This dog always seeks the company of its owner and keeps a close eye on its “pack”. Anyone who doesn’t belong is gladly caught and “taken away”, albeit very self-confidently and calmly. This dog is aware of its effect and saves itself from aggressive behavior.
Need for employment and physical activity
Filas (like all large camp dogs) are not dogs for everyone. A Fila owner needs a lot of space and a lot of time for this dog. These dogs are very attached to their owners and like to do everything together with “their” humans. Long walks and tracking sports are high on the wish list.
Upbringing
Filas are not naturally dangerous dogs, but because they are so large and alert, dog handling experience is required. Not a beginner dog.
Maintenance
The fur requires little care, and the sensitive eyes should be cleaned regularly. You should also make sure that the dog gets particularly soft padding as a bed because of its heavyweight so that it does not get calluses.
Disease Susceptibility / Common Diseases
Ligament weakness and HD occur.
Did you know?
In Europe, the Fila Brasileiro is still one of the breeds that only have a name among connoisseurs. In his homeland of Brazil, however, he is the “national dog”. It belongs to Brazil like Sugar Loaf and Amazonas, like Samba and Pelé. In Switzerland and Germany, however, this breed is sometimes counted among the dangerous dog breeds whose breeding and keeping are prohibited.