El Fila Brasileiro is a breed from Brazil also known there as the Fila Brasileiro. This dog does not have a clear origin and there are still discussions today about the breeds from which it can come. What is clear is that it is currently one of its most appreciated breeds, not only as a guard dog but also as a companion dog.
El Brazilian row is a big dog but he has always stood out for his loyalty and for taking care of the whole family. That is why it is a breed that continues to be very popular in its country and abroad. We are going to know all the details of the great Brazilian Row.
History of the Brazilian Row
The first documents that make historical reference to a dog as the Brazilian row dating from the seventeenth century. In reality, there are engravings and references of dogs that were used during the conquest to avoid the attacks of the natives and animals such as jaguars. Since the beginning of the conquest, these dogs were present throughout the Brazilian territory for their skills for work and for being a prey dog that was used for defense and protection.
It is considered that creator of the breed and its standard was Paulo Santos Cruz, which was concerned with maintaining the breed, presenting the breed standard in the 50s. During the 70s and 80s this dog had its heyday, since many copies of the breed were registered, growing its popularity. It is at this time that a different standard is created, two existing today. They were looking for a dog that was more docile with strangers, although precisely this dog was characterized by being distrustful of strangers and faithful to his family, even being used as a babysitter dog.
As for the true origin of the breed, what is clear is that it is a cross between breeds that were found in Europe. It is said to be the cross of three races, the English Mastiff, Bloodhound and Old Bulldog. Although this origin is uncertain, since there are those who also establish that it is related to the Spanish Mastiff and with Portuguese breeds.
Physical characteristics of the dog
El Fila Brasileño is in essence a strong and large dog. The males measure at the withers from 75 to 80 cm with a weight of 50 kilos and the female measures about 70 cm with a weight of 40 kilos. The dog looks longer than tall. It stands out because its skin is loose, with a neck with a dewlap, which does not mean that the dog is not in shape, since it is a characteristic of its appearance. In this sense, it reminds us a lot of the Bloodhound. Its coat is short and dense, stretched and very soft. The dog's color is solid with colors like brown or gold. There is also it in black and tan, speckled in black or gray.
One of the most peculiar things that we can see in the Brazilian Row is that walk differently other dogs. This breed does not alternate legs, but moves both legs on the same side, the front and the back, with a gait that resembles that of camels. Hence the peculiar way it has to move and that is also characteristic of the breed.
Character of the Fila Brasileiro
The Brazilian Row has always stood out for be a very good and faithful dog with their own. It is perfect for taking care of the family and has infinite patience with children, hence it is used many times as a babysitter dog with which the little ones can play. This fidelity and his good character is usually reserved only for his loved ones, that is, for those whom he considers to be within his family.
On the other hand, his reserved character with strangers. It is not a dog that is going to socialize with people outside its family. Sometimes it is a breed that can be cautious or even aggressive with strangers, hence the socialization and education of the dog from an early age is so important, since it is also a strong and powerful breed. It should not be forgotten that it is a dog that has been used as a prey and defense breed, hence its distrust of strangers.
Health of the Brazilian Row
The Brazilian Fila is a strong dog by nature, which will require basic exercise. However, like other large breeds, it is quite common to see how senior dogs suffer hip dysplasia or joint problems. A proper diet and exercise can help delay or mitigate these problems.
On the other hand, dogs of this size can also suffer the dreaded gastric torsion, in which the stomach is turned until it is strangled, causing in many cases the death of the dog. Food should always be provided in small quantities, preventing the dog from eating too much. If necessary, they will be spaced into several intakes during the day, so that digestions can be made more easily.
Dog care
This dog is not overly active, but anyway you should exercise daily, as this makes the dog much more balanced. Although intense exercise is not necessary, the dog will be in good health with daily walks.
Su fur also has a fairly basic careas it is short and easy to style. Its maintenance is very simple. This dog will also need a good food to maintain its muscle mass, with the appropriate amount of protein.
As for its education, it is one of the things in which more time must be invested if we want a docile and sociable dog. These dogs are wary of strangers by nature, but with positive clicker and reward training In addition to adequate socialization with dogs, other pets and people, we will achieve a perfect dog for any environment.
Why have a Brazilian Fila
This Brazilian breed has always stood out for being a very faithful dog with his own. If we want to have a dog that will always be by our side, we will undoubtedly have chosen well. But we must also be willing to work on his character to socialize him, in order to get an ideal dog for the family.