Brazilian Mastiffs: Is This The Right Dog Breed For You?
The Brazilian Mastiff is believed to have originated from the English Mastiff. Over the past two hundred years there have been many mixed dog breeds and mixed dogs that have been bred with Fila to create the breed we know today. However, a Portuguese Shepherd Dog known as Rafiero, a kind of instinctive bulldog, and the St Hubert Hound are believed to be the ones involved in creating the dog we love and enjoy today.
In recent years there has been a trend to breed the Brazilian Mastiff with milder-tempered dogs that favor the docile English Mastiff. English Mastiffs have been easier to sell and have proven to be a better financial investment for their owner.
Still, there are always devotees who are very fond of the Brazilian Mastiff, which tends to have a prominent bloodhound character.
The Fila Brailliero, as it is called in Brazil, tends to be smaller than the English Mastiff and is more energetic and vigorous.
In the following years, extensive mixes were created by breeding with the Neapolitan Mastiff, Great Dane, and English Mastiff in a test for more exotic coat colors. We can often see the influence of these breeds, although today Brazilian Mastiffs are the apparent result of crosses or crosses in the past.
The Fila Brasileiro has an obvious trait that is considered important and highly appreciated. It is the intense antipathy towards strangers. This distinguishes this breed from all other mastiffs and makes it a great guardian for people, property, and the family. This also implies that the Brazilian Mastiff is a type of dog that needs careful training.
It is not a breed for beginners, who are owners of a dog for the first time.
The truth is, it really shouldn’t be owned by anyone who hasn’t owned or trained at least one other type of guard dog before.
As with any breed of guard dog, the Brazilian Mastiff should not be left alone with strangers. Specific fences are also recommended. A high fence of at least 6 feet would prevent it from jumping out of the yard.
Special leashes and collars for mastiffs are also manufactured. These accessories are important for the handling and training of the dog.
In short, the Brazilian Mastiff, for all its strength and power, is said to be a great family dog that loves children, is affectionate, and the best watchdog one can hope for.