Fila Brasileiro

Fila Brasileiro

The Fila Brasileiro (or Brazilian Mastiff) is a large working breed of dog developed in Brazil.

//

Appearance

The Fila Brasileiro is a Molosser breed with large bones and loose skin. The breed standard is for males to be between 65 and 75 cm (27 - 29.5 in) at the shoulder with a minimum weight of 50 kg (100 lb). Females are slightly smaller at 60 to 70 cm (24 - 27.5 in) with a minimum weight of 40 kg (90 lb).

Coat

The coat of the Fila Brasileiro is smooth and short. Solid yellow, reddish tans, and brindled colours are permitted, except mouse-grey and solid white. White markings, not exceeding 1/4 of the coat surface area, are permitted on the feet, chest, and the tip of the tail in the FCI/CBKC standard. The CAFIB standard allows more white and does not penalize for white markings on the nose.

Temperament

The Fila Brasileiro is an excellent estate guardian and cattle dog. It does not hide its aversion to strangers, nor is it meant to, according to the Brazilian CAFIB standard; consequently, these dogs are not disqualified from the show ring for showing aggression to the judge. Their faithfulness to family and friends is legendary. It should be noted that this is not a breed for everyone.

History

The Fila Brasileiro is believed to have been developed from a number of breeds, predominantly the English Mastiff, the Bulldog, and the Bloodhound (the last contributing to the breed's loose skin). The Fila Brasileiros were found primarily on large plantations and cattle farms from where they originated.

Dr. Paulo Santos Cruz, one of the men who began systematically breeding the Fila Brasileiro, contributed largely in setting the standard and removing the breed from its original environment. He is called the Father of the Fila Brasileiro. In March of 1978 he formed a club for the betterment of the Fila Brasileiro, the CAFIB.

In the 1970's, due to political pressures from the dog world, cynophiliacitation needed], the stud book was closed in Brazil. This led to the split of the Fila Brasileiro into two distinct bloodlines, often referred to by their registries, CBKC and CAFIB. CAFIB offers phenotypical evaluation and registration for unregistered dogs, in the hopes of preserving the working abilities of Fila Brasileiro dogs in remote regions of the country.

Legal Status

Fila Brasileiros are banned in the United Kingdom under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. Any Fila Brasileiros found in the United Kingdom will be destroyed and their owners prosecuted. The maximum penalty for ownership of a Fila Brasileiro in the United Kingdom is 6 months imprisonment and an unlimited fine.

See also

Guard Dogs