Brazilian Mastiff

A very unusual combination, the Brazilian Mastiff is in fact a mastiff/bloodhound mix. They have traits of both breeds; including the famed sense of smell bloodhounds are so well known for. They also have the protectiveness and gentleness with children so common in mastiffs. Hailing from Brazil, they are known (in Portuguese) as Fila Brasileiro. Formerly employed as guards for plantations, they found their way to North America with conquistadors.

These gentle giants can easily weigh over 100 pounds, and stand up to 30″ tall. Having the flabby neck and long face of bloodhounds, their fur varies in color from reddish to black, even yellow. Brindled specimens are the most popular however.

Gentle like most mastiffs, they are capable of aggression when called for. Excellent guard dogs, they are nonetheless very good with children. They are also famed for their loyalty.

They are often used as hunting dogs, having inherited the good hunting instincts from the bloodhound part of their lineage. They are especially good at locating, then immobilizing prey; the word “Fila” in their name is the Portuguese for “hold”.

They are far less likely to become overweight than most mastiffs (a common problem seen in the breed), and tend to be healthier and more athletic than your average mastiff. This is another set of traits inherited from their bloodhound relatives.

A downside to the breed is that they are not good at dealing with strangers. They have been known to attack strangers with no provocation or warning. For this reason, they should be kept locked up if say, a repairman is coming.

It is best to keep your mastiff locked up if you will have houseguests, as Brazilian Mastiffs have been known to attack without provocation – this unfortunate quality extends even to mastiffs entered in dog shows and the judges.

If you are getting a new Brazilian Mastiff puppy, choose very carefully. Be certain that the breeder is reputable; don’t be afraid to ask for references.