The Magnificent 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.
Sweet and loving like other mastiffs, they are however capable of aggression when needed. Very loyal and protective, they are excellent with children.
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.
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.
They will attack without permission so it is wise to hide him if strangers plan on staying as guests. Even the best of the best Brazilian mastiffs, the show quality, can become aggressive towards the judges. That is a scary thought. Imagine being attacked as a show dog judge? I think that I would keep the working dog category out of my choice of judging. That is to say the least.
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.
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