• Hungarian Language
  • English Language

Fila Brasileiro Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Fila Brasileiro so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Working Dogs
Popularity Rank535
Reviews1
User Ratings
Compare the Fila Brasileiro With Other Dogs
Select at least one dog breed to make the comparsion.
 
 
Fila Brasileiro dog profile picture
OriginBrazil flagBrazil
Other Names
What other names does the Fila Brasileiro have?
Brazilian MolosserCao de FilaBrazilian Mastiff
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Fila Brasileiro Size and Weight

Size
Is a Fila Brasileiro small, medium or large dog?

How big do Fila Brasileiro get?

What is the average size of a Fila Brasileiro?

Giant
Weight
How much does the Fila Brasileiro weigh? How much should a Fila Brasileiro weight? What is the normal weight of a Fila Brasileiro? How much does a full-grown Fila Brasileiro weight?
90-110 pounds (41-50 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Fila Brasileiro?
100 pounds (45.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Fila Brasileiro? Fila Brasileiro height:
Male: 26–30 inches (65–75 cm), Female: 24–28 inches (60–70 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Fila Brasileiro?
Male: 26–30 inches (65–75 cm), Female: 24–28 inches (60–70 cm)

Fila Brasileiro Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Fila Brasileiro puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Fila Brasileiro in the United States? How much money is a Fila Brasileiro?

Where to buy a Fila Brasileiro with a good pedigree?

$1000-$1300
If you choose to purchase the Fila Brasileiro, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Fila Brasileiro for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Fila Brasileiro gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Fila Brasileiro? How many Fila Brasileiro are there in the world?
Rare: You may rarely see each other in everyday life, but you might catch a glimpse of each other at dog shows.

There are very few of them, and there have been times when they have almost drifted to the brink of extinction, so few are left.

Fila Brasileiro Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Fila Brasileiro? Is the Fila Brasileiro breed dumb or smart?
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Fila Brasileiro ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Fila Brasileiro dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Fila Brasileiro?
Fila Brasileiro dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Fila Brasileiro good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Fila Brasileiro dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Fila Brasileiro dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Fila Brasileiro dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Fila Brasileiro dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Fila Brasileiro can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Fila Brasileiro will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Fila Brasileiro Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Fila Brasileiro have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
CourageousDocileObedientLoyalDeterminedBrave
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Fila Brasileiro sensitivity:
Fila Brasileiro dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Fila Brasileiro a good family dog?
Average to High: Fila Brasileiro dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Brazilian Molosser need? Fila Brasileiro social needs:
Fila Brasileiro dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Fila Brasileiro to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Fila Brasileiro roam?
Fila Brasileiro dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Fila Brasileiro have high prey drive?
Fila Brasileiro dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Fila Brasileiro dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Fila Brasileiro Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Average: Fila Brasileiros, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Barking
Do Fila Brasileiro dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Brazilian Molosser bark?
Low to Average: The Fila Brasileiro rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Fila Brasileiro good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Fila Brasileiro in an apartment?
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Fila Brasileiro breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Fila Brasileiro indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Fila Brasileiro Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Average: Fila Brasileiro dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Fila Brasileiro be left alone? How long can you leave a Fila Brasileiro alone?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Fila Brasileiro Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Fila Brasileiro has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Fila Brasileiro? How much bite force does a Fila Brasileiro have? How strong is a Fila Brasileiro bite?

Above 400 PSI 🔼

Fila Brasileiro bite force: The Strongest. The Fila Brasileiro bite force is among the strongest in the canine world. The bite force Fila Brasileiro measurements are typically quite high, which is a testament to their powerful and large stature. The bite force of Fila Brasileiro dogs is impressive, and their Fila Brasileiro bite PSI is reflective of their powerful nature.

The Fila Brasileiro PSI bite should be respected, and appropriate precautions should be taken when interacting with these dogs. The PSI of a Fila Brasileiro bite is high, making them one of the strongest breeds in terms of bite force.

They are very protective of themselves and their families, therefore a dog bite from them could be exceptionally dangerous with their PSI being above 400.

To ensure a well-behaved and controlled dog, it's important to learn how to train a Fila Brasileiro puppy not to bite from an early age. It is important that they’re trained to be around others safely.

Biting Potential
Do Fila Brasileiro bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Brazilian Molosser? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Fila Brasileiro? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Fila Brasileiro has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Fila Brasileiro do?
Fila Brasileiro dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Fila Brasileiro dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Fila Brasileiro Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Fila Brasileiro dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Fila Brasileiros tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Fila Brasileiro breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Fila Brasileiro breed? Most common health risks of Fila Brasileiro:
Hip Dysplasia BloatElbow Dysplasia
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Fila Brasileiro breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Fila Brasileiro see the vet?
Frequent
The Fila Brasileiro should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Fila Brasileiro dogs live? How old can a Fila Brasileiro be? What is the age limit of the Fila Brasileiro? How many years can the oldest Fila Brasileiro live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Fila Brasileiro?

How long is the lifespan of a Fila Brasileiro?

9-11 years
The average lifespan of Fila Brasileiro: 10 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.

Fila Brasileiro Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Fila Brasileiro have? What is the activity level of the Fila Brasileiro?
Fila Brasileiro dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Fila Brasileiro need? How much exercise do Fila Brasileiro dogs require per day?

Do Fila Brasileiro dogs need a lot of exercises?

Fila Brasileiro dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Fila Brasileiro breed need?
Fila Brasileiro dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Fila Brasileiro Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Fila Brasileiro need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Fila Brasileiro breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Fila Brasileiro? How much food should I feed my Fila Brasileiro?
6 to 8 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Fila Brasileiro risk for obesity:
High: The Fila Brasileiro breed has a strong tendency to be overweight. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding. If you want to keep balance, increase the amount and frequency of your daily dog walk and play with the Fila Brasileiro more often.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Fila Brasileiro weight regularly.

Fila Brasileiro Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Fila Brasileiro have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
DenseSmooth
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Fila Brasileiro coats?
Black Red Yellow Brindle
Grooming
How to groom the Fila Brasileiro and how often? How often should I take my Fila Brasileiro to the groomer?
Easy to groom: The Fila Brasileiro doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Fila Brasileiro is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Shedding Level
How much do Fila Brasileiro dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Brazilian Molosser? Do Fila Brasileiro dogs shed a lot?
Fila Brasileiro dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Fila Brasileiro need a bath? How often should you give a Fila Brasileiro a bath? Can I bathe my Fila Brasileiro every day?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Fila Brasileiro breed hypoallergenic?
No
Fila Brasileiro dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Fila Brasileiro has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Fila Brasileiro drool?
The Fila Brasileiro drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool more than others, just like the Fila Brasileiro.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Fila Brasileiro Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Fila Brasileiro dogs get along with other pets? Are Fila Brasileiro dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Fila Brasileiro dogs do best when they’re the only pet at the family.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Fila Brasileiro temperament with other people:
Fila Brasileiro dogs are not stranger friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Fila Brasileiro dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Fila Brasileiro temperament with children:
Fila Brasileiro dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs. If you have children, you may have to reconsider your choice of having a puppy from this breed.
Cat Friendly
How well do Fila Brasileiro dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Fila Brasileiro breed live with a cat?
Fila Brasileiro dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Fila Brasileiro good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Fila Brasileiro dogs get along with other dogs?
Fila Brasileiro dogs are not dog-friendly. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Fila Brasileiro is not the best choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Fila Brasileiro breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Fila Brasileiro breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Fila Brasileiro dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Fila Brasileiro dogs good office canines? Do Fila Brasileiro dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Fila Brasileiro is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Fila Brasileiro dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Brazilian Molosser temperament with senior people? Are Fila Brasileiro dogs good for elderly owners?
Fila Brasileiros are not the best breed for elderly people.

Fila Brasileiro As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Fila Brasileiro be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Fila Brasileiro is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Fila Brasileiro be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Fila Brasileiro be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Fila Brasileiro is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Fila Brasileiro be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Fila Brasileiro is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Fila Brasileiro be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Fila Brasileiro is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Fila Brasileiro be a boat dog?

Not really

Fila Brasileiro breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Fila Brasileiro be a drafting dog?

Yes

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Fila Brasileiro breed is a good choice for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Fila Brasileiro dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Yes

In history, this breed was unfortunately used for combat dogs. A combat dog is a specially trained dog that is used in warfare to help protect military personnel and assets. Combat dogs are often deployed in areas where there is potential for contact with the enemy, such as during raids or search operations. Combat dogs are typically assigned to either infantry or special operations units. They are used for a variety of tasks including area security, sentry duty, trackers, and explosive detection. In addition to their combat roles, combat dogs also play an important role in troop morale by providing companionship and emotional support.

Fila Brasileiro Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Fila Brasileiro pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Fila Brasileiro breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Fila Brasileiro: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Fila Brasileiro have in a litter? How many puppies can the Fila Brasileiro breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Fila Brasileiro have? How many puppies can a Fila Brasileiro give birth to?
4-10 puppies

Fila Brasileiro Recognition

AKC Group
Is Fila Brasileiro recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Fila Brasileiro recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs group, in the Molossian type section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Fila Brasileiro breed?
American Canine RegistryAmerica's Pet RegistryDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleAmerican Canine Association, Inc.Continental Kennel ClubNational Kennel Club

Fila Brasileiro Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Grooming: Easy to groom: The Fila Brasileiro doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Watchdog Ability: Fila Brasileiro dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Fila Brasileiro dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog: A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
Cons
  • Health Issues: Fila Brasileiros tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Hypoallergenic: Fila Brasileiro dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Fila Brasileiro breed.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Fila Brasileiro drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: High: The Fila Brasileiro breed has a strong tendency to be overweight.
  • Child Friendly: Fila Brasileiro dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs.
  • Cat Friendly: Fila Brasileiro dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Fila Brasileiro dogs are not dog-friendly.
  • Office Friendly: Fila Brasileiro is not the best dog breed for office environment.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Fila Brasileiros are not the best breed for elderly people.

Rate The Fila Brasileiro Breed

Fila Brasileiro Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Eric Rowards

    Jun 12, 2022, 9:34:47 PM:

    Large, strong and aggressive dog, very good guard, persistent, a great option for those who like large and protective dogs.