The Fila Brasileiro is the National dog of Brazil, it's legendary loyalty expressed in a Brazilian saying: "Faithful as a Fila". The Fila is a rare breed that originated in Brazil about 400 years ago, possibly from bloodhounds, mastiffs and 16th century bulldog. Fila have what is called “ojeriza” translated to “aversion to strangers" or “dislike of strangers” The Fila is also known as the Brazilian Mastiff. The Fila is a great family dog. HOWEVER to have one of these dogs you will have to understand that there has to be a lifestyle change if you have a lot of family or friends that visit. The Fila loves those that live in the home or someone that the Fila has grown up around to accept as family. The Fila however will not accept those that he doesnt love. You will need to put your Fila up when having visitors. If you are unwilling to do this then the Fila is not the dog for you.
The Fila was bred to hunt jaguar, herd cattle and to protect their own. The Fila is a large and very powerful dog that is also extremely agile and athletic. I have seen them spin on a dime from a full gallop to going the opposite direction. They can also jump a 6 ft fence.
The Fila does not need to be trained to protect as that is natural to a Fila. A Fila should, however, be intensively obedience trained and desensitized to external environmental stimuli. Some people use the term "socialized", however, this often leads to the misguided belief among potential Fila owners that you can train the Fila to be reliable around strangers. I take my puppies in the car with me all the time and then walk them around parking lots. I do not however allow people to pet them. I do not risk taking my puppies to Petsmart. Too many children and adults run up and try to pet the cute puppy. I will not set my puppy up for a bad experience.
