The Fila Brasileiro is a living legend, created in the heart of Brazil to guard, hunt and protect. It originated back in the 17th century as the result of crossbreeding between mastiffs, Bloodhounds and probably old English Bulldogs that were imported from Europe during colonial times. The goal was clear: to get a dog capable of guarding vast farmlands, while being able to withstand heat, humidity, exercise, hunt jaguars and herd cattle.

The name “fila” comes from the Portuguese word filar, which means “to hold”, “to grasp” – and this perfectly describes this breed’s style of working. In the English-speaking world, it is sometimes referred to as the Brazilian Mastiff, although this name does not fully capture the unique character of the fila. In Brazil itself, its iconic status is even officially maintained – the dog is recognized as a national treasure and was bred with the right to export from the country during some periods of its history.

Externally, the Brazilian Fila is an impressive, massive dog with a broad chest, powerful paws, deep eye expression and large, loose skin. Her gait is similar to a panther’s – she treads smoothly, almost floating. It is this gait that is a breed trait, not an abnormality. The weight of an adult dog – from 45 to 75 kg, height at the withers – 65-75 cm, although there are exceptions of larger sizes.

The coat of the filly is short, dense, shiny, without undercoat. Numerous colors are allowed: tiger, pale, red, black, with a black mask or without it. The breed owes its special charm to its physique and skin: it has deep skin folds, especially around the neck, chest and belly – these features make the filly look like an ancient lion or a greyhound mixed with a mastiff.

Although the breed has no officially recognized subspecies, breeding sometimes distinguishes types based on character and purpose: more guarding, more working, or those with pedigrees associated with specific farms – and this often affects size, temperament, and even colors.

The breed’s character and true nature

The Phila brasileiro dog breed is not for everyone. She has a hypertrophied sense of territoriality and an almost fanatical devotion to her owner. She was born to protect – and she does so not on command, but instinctively. Her favorite principle – o-zhim – “aversion to intruders”, is enshrined even in the breed standard. It is the only breed in the world whose official characterization states that the dog must be aggressive to strangers. And at the same time – gentle, calm, obedient and extremely affectionate to their own.

Fila does not recognize new people. Even after a long acquaintance, she can remain aloof, never let a vet or groomer near her, never let a stranger pet her. At the same time, she can lie at the feet of the owner for hours, lick children, tail someone she recognized as “her own”. For her, the world is divided into two parts: “mine” and “others.” And if “others” cross the line – the consequences can be without warning.

Therefore, socialization, education and behavior control must be at the highest level. She can not be kept in an apartment where there is no experience with large dogs. She does not tolerate rudeness, but instantly reacts to fear or weakness. It is necessary to bring up Phila from the first weeks – gently, confidently, consistently. She is incredibly intelligent and emotionally sensitive. If you are cruel to her – she will not trust. If you don’t give her rules, she will become a rule. This is not a companion dog or “fluffy” – it’s an equal partner that has the potential to become a legend in your life or a problem if you’re not ready.

How to keep this dog beautiful and healthy

Despite its grandeur and serious appearance, the Fila Brasileiro is not a fastidious dog to care for, if you know what to pay attention to. Its short, dense coat does not require complicated procedures, but regular combing at least once a week is a must. For this purpose, it is better to use a brush with soft bristles or special rubber gloves, which collect dead hair, stimulate the skin and give the coat shine.

The real challenge, however, is her unique skin. Deep folds, especially around the neck, under the ears, on the belly and chest, need systematic cleaning. Moisture, grease, dirt accumulate in these folds and if left untreated will quickly lead to inflammation, fungal infections or irritations. After walking, especially in rainy weather or in summer, it is important to wipe these areas with a clean soft cloth or special wipes with antiseptic effect.

Bathing is carried out infrequently – once every 1.5-2 months or as needed. Use only hypoallergenic shampoos for short-haired breeds. It is important to thoroughly wash all areas between the folds, but even more important – to dry well. Moisture left between the skin folds is a direct route to dermatitis. Ideally, dry with a hair dryer at the lowest possible temperature and using a microfiber towel. Although this breed and does not need serious care, but grooming dogs in Kiev they need.

Special attention should be paid to the ears. They are large, softly hanging down and blocking the access of air to the inside. This creates ideal conditions for the accumulation of wax and bacteria. They should be cleaned 1-2 times a week with special products for dogs. The same applies to the nails – although large dogs often sharpen them naturally, the fila’s nails are thick and stiff, so they need trimming if there is a lack of exercise.

The Fila Brasileiro requires special treatment.