Brazilian Mastiff

The Brazilian Mastiff is a bloodhound/mix. A very interesting combination indeed; These are mastiffs who also have some of the traits of the bloodhound. This includes the legendary noses of that breed. They also possess the gentleness of the mastiff. Originating in Brazil, these dogs are also known as Fila Brasiliero in Portuguese. Once used as guards for Brazilian plantations, they were brought to what is now the U.S. by conquistadors.

This is a large breed, adults weigh in at sometimes over 100 pounds, and standing as tall as 2 feet. They have a face and neck reminiscent of a bloodhound, and fur in colors from tan to black, even yellow, with brindled dogs being most highly prized.

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.

Brazilian Mastiffs still are seen in hunting, being as good at the job as their bloodhound relatives. They specialize in tracking down and catching prey while waiting for their owners to catch up; in fact, the "Fila" in "Fila Brasileiro" is from Portuguese and means "hold".

These are an athletic breed although some Mastiffs are not athletic at all and they even are known to become obese. Again they get their athletic abilities from the bloodhound side. The guarding side comes from the Mastiff. Mastiffs are very watchful dogs and although they aren't aggressive in nature, they will guard their family.

In fact, the Brazilian Mastiff is well known to not like strangers at all. It doesn't matter if they are intruders or not. You have to be around them when they are puppies and as they grow if you plan on becoming someone they won't attempt to attack or become aggressive towards. Extremely loyal to his family and will be as gentle as he could be around children.

The best way to get and stay in a Brazilian Mastiffs good graces is to spend time with it from puppyhood until it is an adult. They are loyal to a fault when it comes to their families; they have even become aggressive towards judges while entered in dog shows.

Remember to be careful as you choose your new Brazilian Mastiff puppy. You want to make sure that the breeder is a good and trustworthy one. Some breeders have other agendas when selling their puppies so it is wise to get references first hand.