Fila brasileiro - description of the breed and character of the dog

Fila Brazilian breed is otherwise called the Brazilian mastiff. Her homeland is Brazil. In times when colonial rule flourished, slaves escaped plantations frequently. At the same time, their location was tropical Brazilian forests. In order to track and catch them, and this breed was bred.

These dogs carried guard and military service, were engaged in hunting, prey in which dangerous game became. Such dogs are extremely suspicious of strangers and are the only representatives of the canine kingdom who cannot stand the touch of others. A similar property is present even in their official standard.

Such dogs are courageous, faithful and at home are held in high esteem. This can not be said about other countries where this animal has gained a reputation as a representative with severe aggression and in many territories they are even banned for breeding.

External characteristics

If you give a brief description, then such dogs have a mastiff body with a bloodhound head. The most characteristic feature is the massiveness of its size. Growth can reach 73.65 cm, and weight - 45.5 kg. This applies to males. Females have a slightly more modest size. Such parameters require an approved standard. But that is not the limit. Some representatives have large parameters.

The breed is characterized by the following external characteristics:

1. The head is given the most defining characteristics of this breed. It is in proportion with the body. When viewed from above, the head is pear-shaped.
2. If representatives of this breed are compared with other mastiffs, then they have a longer muzzle. She always harmonizes perfectly with the skull. When viewed laterally, the nose has a small hump. A pronounced bulkiness of the upper lips is observed.
3. The black nose has a good development of the nostrils.
4. Eye sizes are marked by pronounced variability. They can be medium and large in size. The eyes look like tonsils, and the color is the same as the color of the dog itself. The hallmark of the breed is related to the general expression of the eyes. When the dog is at rest, they look calm and noble, with the absence of the slightest elements of boredom. If the dog is wary, then decisiveness is visible in the eyes, with signs of pronounced rigidity and hardness.
5. There is a hanging arrangement of large and thick ears. Their location is the sides of the head. Their slight tipping is allowed.
6. The dog has a powerful neck.
7. The case in comparison with the height is somewhat longer. The difference is approximately 10%. The breed has pronounced relief muscles and is characterized by significant power.
8. The dog has a thick tail. But towards the end its marked narrowing is noted.
9. The bones are large with powerful muscles.
10. The limbs end with large paws, with the arrangement of dense pads on them.
11. The coat is short, fits the body tightly.
12. The standard allows any color, but not white and mouse color. Spotting is not allowed. Allowed a small presence of white marks, the location of which can be the paws, chest and tip of the tail.

Habits

One of the most important features of a dog is its character. Breeders are taking steps to preserve it. The issue of temperament causes a lot of discussion. These dogs are bred for protection purposes only. His character is in full accordance with this mission.

Despite the fact that such dogs have a fairly serious disposition, they show incredible loyalty and a sense of strong attachment to the family in which they are located. For her, they are literally ready for anything. If it is brought up by only one person, then there is a pronounced tendency to become a dog of one owner. But, if all family members take part in her upbringing, then she will be attached to everyone equally. They are not without a feeling of affection, but always at the same time retain a sense of independence.

If the family has small children, then a dog of this breed is not recommended. They do not like children giving commands to them. In the social hierarchy, they put them a notch. It is possible that they can mistake a rough game for an attack. Then they will certainly respond accordingly.

If family members are present, then they will react restraintly to the appearance of a stranger. But, if a stranger approaches them, and there are no family members nearby, then he simply will not be greeted. Therefore, for example, if the owner asks someone to feed the dog in his absence, certain problems may arise. Such dogs can not get used to new family members for a very long time. This can be observed, for example, when the owner is married and a new person appears in the house. Some cannot even make friends with them all their lives.

Health

There is no complete volumetric information about the health of these dogs. This is due to the lack of their knowledge. Basically, they are characterized by diseases that are inherent in large dogs. Problems can be associated with progressive retinal atrophy or bloating.

According to the breeders, such dogs have significantly better health than representatives of other giant breeds. Even older dogs are much less likely to get sick than other dogs. The breed has an average life expectancy of 9-11 years.

Care

Care activities require the usual procedures related to bathing, brushing, and other activities. Care procedures include the following points:

1. The dog will look great if combed periodically. During molting, combing is required more often. At the same time, they use the rubber gloves for dogs. It is a good tool to remove excess hair. In addition, the body is massaged well. Facial wrinkles need to be cleaned as they are a place for dirt to accumulate. Accumulated dust and dirt can cause inflammation. To do this, use a wet towel or dry shampoo.
2. Once every 3 days, the pet is brushed. In this case, use a special toothpaste or baking soda. Use a soft toothbrush or gauze. The dog’s bad breathing indicates that he needs dental screening. If stones are deposited, this will lead to a fetid odor. Then you will need the help of a specialist. For prevention, dogs should not be given human food. Compliance with a special diet that focuses on maintaining healthy teeth is required. They can be lost as a result of infection of the gums.
3. Ears must be thoroughly cleaned. A prophylactic should be instilled into them, which will prevent inflammatory manifestations and accumulation of earwax. The outer surface of the ear is also thoroughly wiped.
4. Often in these dogs you can observe a twist of the century. If this condition occurs with pronounced constancy, you must seek the help of a veterinarian. If dust and dirt get into your eyes, they should be wiped with herbal infusions and decoctions.
5. Claws are used to shorten claws. With this procedure, extreme caution should be exercised. If he is inadvertently hurt, he can just bite the person conducting the procedure.Subsequently, he will no longer give a claw cut ever.

Feeding

The best food for your pet will be dry quality feed. Together with them he will receive all the substances he needs in full. At the same time, vitamins and minerals are not required to be added to his diet. You should not give the dog too much food, as he often suffers from bloating. To prevent intestinal inversion, the pet must have constant access to clean water. Before the walk, the dog is not fed.

Of the large breeds, these dogs are the most active. Daily exercise should be given at least 30 minutes. Of course, do not forget to walk with them. 1.5-2 hours should be allowed for walks. If the dog is deprived of walks and physical activity, then it will behave in such a way that the owner is unlikely to like it. If you do not walk with the dog, she will establish her order. Upon returning from work, the owner in his apartment will see real destruction, and the neighbors will certainly complain that the dog howled and barked loudly. The dog will have excessive excitability and nervousness.

It is very good to take the dog with you to the country. High-quality protection in this case is provided. The dog will be happy to walk around the territory, protecting it from uninvited guests. If you want to get such a dog, you need to know that the dog very often barks loudly. Do not get such a dog for those who suffer from excessive picky. They obviously will not like the fact that the dog drools. This is often observed in hot weather.

Anyone who has decided to acquire such a puppy should understand that a great responsibility rests on his shoulders. Raising and keeping dogs of this breed is not an easy task. If the choice is made finally, then you have to fork out for 1000-1300 US dollars. That is how much puppies of this breed cost.

Video: Fila Brazilian dog breed