Brazilian Mastiff | Dogs

By EricSalson
Total views: 4
Word Count: 372

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 loving creatures weigh about 100 pounds or more and they stand about 27-30 inches off the ground. They have the hound dog look in the face with a large flabby neck. They have short hair that is very easy to manage. Their colors vary. You may want one that is reddish tan, how about black or maybe even yellow. Then there is the most popular and that happens to be brindle.

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".

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.

More than most other varieties, Brazilian Mastiffs are not at all fond of strangers. The only sure way to get on a Brazilian Mastiffs good side, it seems, is to spend a lot of time with them as puppies if you want them to remember and show that famed protectiveness towards you.

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.

About the Author

FREE email course ,make sure you check out Eric Salson's mastiff dog website, all breeds explained including the Magnificent Brazilian Mastiff and the MASSIVE English Mastiff ,Big dogs Big Love.

You are here Articles > Pets and Animals > Dogs