2024 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 00:21
The fanatical devotion of this magnificent dog to his master is legendary. There is even a saying in Brazil: "Faithful as a fila!" - which fully reflects the unique character of the animal. But not everyone knows the origin of one of the best examples of the canine race. So what is this amazing breed and what makes it special?
History
The origin of the Fila Brasileiro breed is not known for certain. However, there are several versions of the story of its appearance.
According to the first version, the breed was formed as a result of crossing a bulldog, an English mastiff and a bloodhound. This point of view has a rational grain and is not without meaning. After all, some characteristic features of these three breeds are clearly visible both in the exterior and in the working qualities of the dog.
According to another version, their progenitors are Molossians brought to Brazil by the Spanish and Portuguese conquistadors. As a result of mixing these dogs with local ones, the Fila Brasileiro breed appeared.
Description
The official standard of the International Cynological Federation (FCI No. 225) clearly describes all the necessaryparameters that determine the exterior, character and other properties of the Fila Brasileiro breed. According to this document, these dogs are typical Molossians with strong bones and excellent proportions. The massive body does not interfere with the mobility of the animal. The standard specifies two important proportions:
- skull longer than muzzle;
- body length (the distance from the protruding chest bone to the pelvis) is 10% greater than the height at the withers.
The head of the dog is massive, proportional to the body, the skull is wide. The stop is almost invisible. The drooping upper lip beautifully overlaps the lower. The bite is straight or scissor. The eyes of a dog can be either medium or large. Almond shape. Eye color varies from yellow to brown. Slightly drooping lower eyelids give the muzzle a sad and somewhat distant expression. Ears are large, hanging.
| Height at withers (cm) | Weight (kg) | |
| Males | 65-75 | from 50 |
| Bitches | 60-70 | from 40 |
The bones of the forelimbs are more powerful than the hind ones.
An important feature of the breed is the loose skin of the animal, which forms a dewlap on the neck and stomach. The Brazilian Fila is a dog with thick and short hair. Color can be solid or brindle, white markings on the chest, paws and tip of the tail are allowed.
Deviations from the standard
If there are any deviations in the appearance or behavior of the dog fromstandard, this is considered a disadvantage. A Brazilian Fila with pronounced deviations is even subject to disqualification.
Flaws:
- short muzzle;
- small or high set ears;
- very light eye color;
- folds on the skull;
- sagging back;
- narrow croup (back of the torso);
- short step.
Flaws:
- indifference;
- small head;
- short upper lip;
- round or bulging eyes;
- straight or humped back;
- tummy too tight;
- weak bones;
- many white marks on the body of the dog;
- too tall.
Temperament
You can talk about this beautiful dog endlessly. The character of the Fila Brasileiro dogs deserves special attention. There is an opinion that dogs of this breed are extremely aggressive and ferocious. There is a rational grain in this statement. Since in ancient times this dog was used to guard slaves, as well as to hunt predatory animals, the ability to attack is in its genes.
In many countries, it is simply not possible to purchase this animal without a special license as a weapon. Of course, these dogs are extremely distrustful of strangers, but without a reason they never attack anyone. Only the appearance of danger in relation to the owner, whom she simply idolizes, can provoke a dog to aggressive behavior. The dog is great with all family members and loves small children.
Characteristic diseases
The Fila Brasileiro dog, despite its excellent he alth, can still have problems with the gastrointestinal tract. That is why it is not recommended to overfeed. It is better to give the dog food several times a day, but in small portions. In animals, in addition to problems with the intestines, ischemia and eye diseases occur.
Contents
The dog feels great both in a city apartment and in a country house. Of course, dogs will be more comfortable in their summer cottage. If you plan to keep a dog in an apartment, you need to walk around the city with him daily for his adaptation. Otherwise, it may happen that the animal, when meeting with strangers, suddenly shows aggression.
There is nothing difficult in caring for this breed. It is only necessary to monitor the condition of the skin and wipe the folds from time to time. The dog's eyes should also be washed with chamomile infusion or tea.
Feeding
A dog's diet should consist mainly of meat, as it is the main source of animal protein. You need to feed the dog with vegetables, fruits, cereals, seafood, cottage cheese and chicken eggs. The dog should be given vitamins and minerals in tablets or drops. Cabbage, legumes, sausages and smoked meats, pickled vegetables and various sweets should be completely excluded from the diet.
Dog Reviews
Judging by the enthusiastic reviews of breeders and owners, the Brazilian Mastiff is perhaps the most idealguard dog, ready to the last drop of blood to protect its owner. The animal is endowed with an extremely strong innate guardian instinct, which can hardly be found in representatives of other breeds. It is generally accepted that the training of this dog should not be handled by a cynologist-trainer, but directly by the owner himself. With this approach during training, any aggression on the part of the dog is completely excluded.
Breeders recommend starting this breed only for serious and responsible people. Indeed, in bad hands, such an intelligent dog, distinguished by an excellent nervous system, can become a dangerous weapon. And for those people who sincerely love animals and take their upbringing and maintenance seriously, Fila Brasileiro will become a faithful and devoted friend, a reliable guard and a nanny for children.
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