Brazilian Mastiff - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Origin

The history of the Brazilian Mastiff is unclear. Some people believe, that they were developed in the 15th century by crossing the English Mastiff, old Bulldog and Bloodhound. Other theory suggest, that the Brazilian Mastiff originated by crossing Spanish and Portuguese dogs brought to Brazil during the Iberian Union era.

2) Massive dogs

The Brazilian Masiffs have the appearance of typical molossoid breed. They are powerful dogs with compact but well proportioned structure. They have massive body and large head and for some people, they might look pretty terrifying.

3) Slave catchers

The Brazilian Mastiffs were bred on farms and plantations, where they were used as guards. But they were also used for another purpose. Back than, when the slavery was still legal, Brazilian Mastiffs were used to track escaped slaves and hold them until their owner arrived.

4) Speed

When you look at the Brazilian Mastiff, you would probably not guess, that it is fast breed. But you would be wrong, this is pretty fast and agile dog breed. That is also why these dogs require plenty of daily exercise and the best environment for the Brazilian Mastiff is an open country with fenced yards.

5) Brazilian army

The Brazilian Mastiff was tested by Brazilian army when they compared them with the Dobermans and GSDs in the harsh and hostile jungle conditions. These three breeds were tested in intelligence, temperament, energy, strength, aggressiveness, sensibility, resistance and rusticity. The German Shepherds were found to be the dogs with the highest intelligence and the Dobermans were best at agression. In every other aspect, the Brazilian Mastiff was found as superior.

6) Legal issues

Brazilian Mastiff, just like many other dog breeds, including the Dogo Argentino or Pit Bulls, is a dog that is illegal to own in certain countries and regions. In the United Kingdom, Norway, Cyprus, Fiji and Malta, it is completely illegal to own them.

7) Maintance

The Brazilian Mastiff is an average shedder and they do require occasional brushing, if you want to keep their coat in good condition. They do not requiere bathing, only when its really needed. Just like with any other dog, you should check and také care about their teeth, ears and eyes.

8) Name

I already told you that the Brazilian Mastiff was used to catch and holt slaves. But did you know, that they have it in their original name – Fila Brasileiro. I am obviously not Portuguese, so i might pronounce it wrongly, but the verb Filar in Portuguese means arrest or hold. And the Fila dogs are basicly catch dogs. You can be sure when the brazilian mastiffs bite, they will not loose the grip.

9) Temperament

Brazilian Mastiffs are natural protectors and they are great at it. They were bred to be agressive and loyal, and there is even a Brazilian saying – to be faithful as a Fila. Because of their natural instincts, the early socialization is extremely important and it is also a reason, why unexperienced owner should never buy a Brazilian Mastiff.
10) Good with Kids

They might be very protective and they might not like strangers, but when they are inside their pack, with their families, they are pretty gentle and patient, even with the kids. On the other hand, they have pretty high prey drive and i would not trust them around smaller household pets.