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Fila Brasileiro (or Brazilian Mastiff)

A powerful and loyal guardian, reserved for dog enthusiasts with a unique character.

🏞 History

The Fila Brasileiro has a history as impressive as its stature. Descending from mastiffs like the Mastiffs and Dogues, as well as the Bloodhound, this dog with exceptional scenting ability was introduced to Brazil in the 16th century by Portuguese, Dutch, and Spanish conquistadors.

Originally used to protect herds from wild predators, it became a feared guard dog on sugarcane plantations. Later, it was crossed with Spanish greyhounds to improve its speed and agility, thus enhancing its role as a tracker, war dog, and guardian.

🐕 Breed Profile

The Fila Brasileiro is an imposing dog, both powerful and agile. Very attached to its family, it can be wary, even aggressive towards strangers, a legacy of its past as a protection dog. With proper socialization and training, this sensitive giant transforms into a devoted and protective companion.
Its gait is smooth and almost feline, with an elegant appearance that contrasts with its massive build.

🔍 In Brief

  • Hypoallergenic: No

  • Weight: 50-60 kg (males), 40-50 kg (females)

  • Height: 65-75 cm (males), 60-70 cm (females)

  • Life expectancy: 10-11 years

  • Physical activity needs: 1 to 1.5 hours per day

❤️ Personality & Compatibility

  • Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

  • Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

  • Protective: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

  • Playful: ⭐☆☆☆☆

  • Vocalizations: ⭐☆☆☆☆

  • Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

  • Hunter: ⭐☆☆☆☆

  • Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

  • Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

  • Independent: ⭐⭐☆☆☆

Compatibility:

  • Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (affectionate but requires supervision)

  • Animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (socialization needed)

  • Strangers: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (very wary)

  • Apartment: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (not suitable, prefers large spaces)

Ideal for experienced owners living in a house with a large garden or in a rural area, where it can thrive.

🛠 Hygiene & Care

  • Maintenance difficulty: ⭐⭐☆☆☆

  • Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

  • Maintenance frequency: ⭐⭐☆☆☆

💰 Budget

  • Purchase price: 1000-1500 €

  • Average annual cost: 1750-1800 € (food, veterinary care, accessories)

🌟 In summary

The Fila Brasileiro is a rare and impressive breed, perfect for lovers of strong and loyal dogs. With its protective instinct and natural strength, it excels as a guardian, but it requires an attentive and present owner to meet its physical and emotional needs. If you are looking for a unique and imposing dog, ready to protect you at all costs, the Fila Brasileiro is for you.

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Protect the one who is most loyal to you

Your dog is part of your family. Belfius Direct Insurance's Pet Insurance takes care of them by covering unexpected veterinary expenses in case of illness or accident in Belgium.

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Protect the one who is most loyal to you

Your dog is part of your family. The pet insurance from Belfius Direct Insurance takes care of him by covering unexpected veterinary costs in case of illness or accident in Belgium.

Learn more