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Fila Brasileiro
Fila Brasileiro
Origin
Brazil
Size
Large Breed
Ideal Space
House with backyard
Ideal Weather
15º-30ºC
Life Expectancy
9-11 years
Cost of buying
₹ 30,000 - ₹ 1,50,000
Top 5 Traits
Fearless
Loyal
Aggressive
Protective
Athletic
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 4,900 - ₹ 7,650
Fila Brasileiro Dog Breed Overview
Also commonly known as the Brazilian Mastiff, the Fila Brasileiro is a large breed that is known for its guarding abilities. This magnificent canine however is not suitable for apartments and first time dog owners. They require ample space and do best when they live in close proximity with nature. They are known for their exceptional loyalty. So much so that in Brazil, there’s a popular saying: “As faithful as a Fila.”
They are calm and gentle beings and love the company of their humans. If they lose sight of you, they will be sure to find you and hang out with you. They also have a strong prey drive and may not do well with cats or other small pets if introduced later. Hence, early socialization is crucial. They are high in energy and need a minimum of an hour of exercise per day. Filas also like to play cognitive games. This includes chase toys and puzzle toys that give them treats.
Because of its strength and independence, the Fila requires a handler who can provide consistent, authoritative leadership. Fila Brasileiros can be stubborn and challenging to train, despite their high intelligence and capacity to learn challenging tasks. According to the Spruce Pets, puppies should start basic obedience training as early as eight weeks of age.
Physical Characteristics
- Height - 24-30 inches
- Weight - 63-81 kgs (males) and 59 - 73 kgs (females)
- Coat Texture - Short, smooth, and dense.
- Coat Color- Light brown or black. Some of them also have brindles (streaks or stripes).
Origin
According to the Spruce Pets, it's unclear where the Fila Brasileiro came from. According to one notion, the Fila's ancestors may have included the Mastiff, Bloodhound, and a bulldog breed that was popular in the 1400s. Compared to the short, gentle bulldogs of today, this breed was considerably larger and more aggressive.
Another notion proposes that the Fila Brasileiro was created in Brazil centuries ago. The breed was valued as a property defender and protector. It was able to track, herd, and trap huge prey like jaguars because of its courage and power. These dogs would grab the animal by the neck, pin it down, and hold it there until the hunter could come up. The Portuguese word "filar" means "to seize."
The United Kennel Club, the Canadian Kennel Club, and the American Kennel Club are the three main North American kennel clubs that do not recognize the Fila Brasileiro. The Confederação Brasileira de Cinofilia (CBKC) in Brazil, the Federacion Canofila de Puerto Rico (FCPR) in Puerto Rico, and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in the United States all recognize it.
What is the lifespan of a Fila Brasileiro?
According to the Spruce Pets, the average lifespan of a Fila Brasileiro is 9-11 years.
Characteristics
Barking
Quiet
Loud
Temperament with Kids
Aggressive
Friendly
Playfulness
Silent
Very Playful
Friendliness
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Compatibility with other dogs
Aggressive
Friendly
Need for attention
Independent
Very Needy
Monthly Expenses
What is The Price Of A Fila Brasileiro in India?
Cost of buying
₹ 30,000 - ₹ 1,50,000
The average cost of a Fila Brasileiro varies between ₹ 30,000 - ₹ 1,50,000 in India.
The cost of buying depends on a multitude of factors like the lineage of the dog, its potential for show quality, and the reputation of the breeders.
Also, it is important to note that buying is just one of the options and not the only option. Adoption is a great way to show love to a pup in need. It also discourages unethical breeding practices and frees up space and resources for other dogs in need.
Prerequisites to pet a Fila Brasileiro
Access to Veterinary
Appropriate Climate
Lifestyle Compatibility
Financial Capability
Space and Environment
Willingness to train
Things To Know Before Buying Or Adopting a Fila Brasileiro
- Research – Learn about the unique needs of the Fila Brasileiro, including its diet, health care, and grooming habits.
- Connect – Reach out to current Fila Brasileiro owners to hear about their real-life experiences and any challenges they face.
- Explore – Visit local shelters, rescues, or reputable breeders to check the pups’ living conditions.
- Engage – Spend time interacting with the pup of choice to make sure its temperament matches you and your family.
- Health Check – Go through all available medical records and take the dog for a comprehensive checkup with a trusted vet.
- Prepare – Get all the essentials ready in advance, like food, a bed, toys, and a leash, to welcome your new dog.
Fila Brasileiro Nutrition Guide
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 3,000 - ₹ 4,500
Calories per day
Puppies: 2000 kcal
Adults: 1800 kcal
Essential Nutrients
Protein
Fats
Minerals
Vitamins
Fibre
Carbohydrates
List of foods
Dry Dog Food
Fresh Meat
Fresh Fish
Fruits
Home made meals
Vegetables
Chicken
- Protein – According to Wag, protein aids in tissue repair and supports lean muscle development.
- Fats – Provide long-lasting energy. Look for sources that are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 to promote a healthy, shiny coat.
- Carbohydrates – Supply energy for both physical and mental activities. It also aids digestive health.
- Fiber – Promotes regular bowel movements and maintains a healthy digestive tract.
- Vitamins A, B, C, and E – Essential for overall growth, cellular protection, and a stronger immune system.
- Minerals – Nutrients like calcium, zinc, iron, and phosphorus strengthen bones and contribute to overall vitality.
- Glucosamine and chondroitin- It provides joint support and reduces wear and tear of the elbows and hips.
- Water – Fresh, clean water should always be available. It improves digestion and provides hydration.
Breakdown of Macro-nutrients
Recommended Foods To Keep Your Fila Brasileiro Healthy
- Fila Brasileiro is a large dog with a healthy appetite. They could overeat if left unsupervised. Thus, it is recommended to measure their food before serving them.
- Adjust portion sizes based on their age, metabolic rate, and activity levels.
- According to the Spruce Pets, their meals need to be divided into smaller portions and fed multiple times a day to prevent bloat.
- Protein - Chicken, turkey, lamb, eggs, and fish.
- Healthy fats - Fish oil and chicken fat. However, be mindful of the portion sizes.
- Carbohydrates- Boiled sweet potatoes, brown rice, pumpkin, and oatmeal.
- Fiber - Fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Glucosamine - Bone broth
Do Not Feed Your Fila Brasileiro These Foods
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Alcohol
Avocados
Cherries
Cinnamon
Coffee / Tea
Dairy
Garlic
Onions
Milk Products
Salt
Sugar
Mushrooms
- Keep your dog away from certain human foods that are toxic to dogs. The list includes items such as grapes, raisins, chocolate, and avocados.
- Avoid giving cooked bones. They can cause choking.
- Stay away from sugary items and products containing artificial sweeteners. They can disrupt blood sugar levels.
- Tea, coffee, and other caffeinated beverages should not be given.
Fila Brasileiro Medical Guide
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,950
Common Health Issues
Bloat
Hip Dysplasia
Heartworm
Parasites
Lyme disease
Leptospirosis
Parvovirus
Rabies
Well being
Exercise
Bonding
Games
Socialization
Hiking
Agility Training
Energy Level
High
Exercise routine
60 - 90 minutes
Recognising Stress
Changes in appetite
Excessive Barking
Reluctance to move
Increased laziness
Decreased play
Pacing
Health Issues Commonly Found In Fila Brasileiro
- Joint Dysplasia: Hip and elbow dysplasia is a common illness among dogs. It occurs when the joints are misaligned or not developed fully. Symptoms to watch out for are rigid movement, decreased mobility, or decreased interest in activities. Based on the severity, your veterinarian may recommend joint supplements, anti-inflammatory drugs, or even surgery (in extreme cases).
- Entropion: It occurs due to an anomaly in the eyelid. It causes the eyelid to roll in on its own. This involuntary movement causes the eyelashes to rub on the cornea. This could cause discomfort or even an ulcer in the cornea. According to PetMD, the symptoms are squinting of the eyes, tears, an ulcer on the cornea, discharge from the eyes, and rubbing the eyes. It can be diagnosed by a veterinarian during a physical checkup. Treatment is possible with the help of surgery.
- Gastric-Dilation Volvulus: In dogs with GDV, the stomach dilates (typically with food and gas) and twists so that the contents cannot be vomited or transferred into the intestines. The stomach is at serious risk from this enlargement and twisting, which can also have an impact on other organs and systems in the area, such as the spleen and the main blood vessels in the abdomen. Arrhythmias, extreme cardiac strain, shock, and even death may result from this. Technically, GDV is not the same as dog bloat. Although the stomach swells as a result of bloat, it does not contort itself. Symptoms are abdominal swelling, retching, reduced appetite, and signs of discomfort. According to PetMD, GDV requires surgical intervention.
Vaccination details
Growth Stage
Core Vaccines
6-8 weeks
Canine Distemper, Parvovirus
10 - 12 Weeks
DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
12 - 16 Weeks
Leptospirosis (if needed)
14-16 Weeks
DHPP, Rabies
Anually
DHPP, Rabies, Leptospirosis
Caring For a Senior Fila Brasileiro
- Joint Support - Fila Brasileiros are prone to joint issues. Provide them with comfortable bedding, joint supplements (after consulting with your vet), and avoid slippery floors.
- Exercise - They still require a lot of exercise. But, make it short and frequent so as not to put too much pressure on their joints.
- Medical Checkup- Schedule appointments with the veterinarian regularly to catch any health issues early.
- Cognition - Keep them engaged with activities that provide mental stimulation to keep their mind sharp and healthy.
How To Keep a Fila Brasileiro Well Groomed?
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 700 - ₹ 1,200
Shedding Level
High Shedding
Hygienic Checklist
Bathing
Brushing
Ear Cleaning
Nail Trimming
Eye Care
Teeth Care
Benefits of Grooming
Cleanliness
Odourless
Prevents Bad Breath
Prevents infections
Low Shedding
Quality of life
The coat of a Fila Brasileiro is soft and short, and overall low-maintenance. Here are a few tips to keep them well-groomed.
- Coat - Brush them weekly to get rid of loose fur and debris.
- Bath - Give them a bath when their coat is covered with a lot of dirt from playing outside.
- Teeth - Brushing their teeth every day is advised to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Nails - VCA Animal Hospitals recommends trimming your dog's nails once a month.
Compare with similar breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Fila Brasileiro a good family dog?
Yes, they are loyal and friendly and make great additions to families.
How much exercise does a Fila Brasileiro need?
They require a minimum of one hour of exercise a day.
Is the Fila Brasileiro banned?
Yes, the Fila Brasileiro is banned in many countries, including India.
