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Fila Brasileiro Temperament, Personality, and Behaviour

Fila Brasileiro Dog walking down shallow river in the woods

 

The Fila Brasileiro is renowned for its unique temperament, blending loyalty, intelligence, and a strong protective instinct. These qualities are deeply rooted in its historical roles as a guardian and working dog on Brazilian estates. Understanding the Fila's temperament is crucial for prospective owners seeking a faithful and dependable companion.


Loyalty and Devotion

One of the defining characteristics of the Fila Brasileiro is its unwavering loyalty to its family. This breed forms strong bonds with its owners and is often described as being deeply devoted. Filas are known to be affectionate with those they trust, creating a strong familial connection.


Protective Nature

The Fila's history as a guardian is evident in its protective instincts. This breed is naturally suspicious of strangers and possesses an inherent drive to protect its territory. While this makes them exceptional guard dogs, it also necessitates early socialisation to ensure they can distinguish between genuine threats and everyday situations.


Intelligence and Trainability

Filas are intelligent dogs, quick to learn and respond to training. However, their independent nature can sometimes make them appear stubborn. Consistent, positive reinforcement training methods work best with this breed. Early training is essential to channel their protective instincts appropriately and ensure they become well-mannered companions.


Gentle with Family

Contrary to their imposing appearance, Fila Brasileiros are often gentle giants within their families. They are known to be good with children, forming strong bonds and showing patience. Proper socialisation from an early age helps reinforce positive behaviour and reduces the likelihood of aggressive tendencies.


Independence and Dominance

Filas have a streak of independence and can exhibit dominant behaviour, especially with other dogs. Early socialisation and consistent leadership are crucial to prevent aggressive interactions with other pets. While they can coexist peacefully with other animals, supervision and proper introductions are vital.


Do Brazilian Mastiffs Drool?

Yes, Fila Brasileiros are known to drool, a trait common among many mastiff-type breeds. The loose, elastic skin around their mouths contributes to this characteristic. While drooling is a natural behaviour for Filas, it can vary among individuals. Regular wiping of the mouth and providing access to fresh water can help manage this trait.


How Aggressive Are Fila Brasileiro?

The reputation of Fila Brasileiros as aggressive dogs is a subject of debate and often stems from their strong protective instincts. When properly trained, socialised, and raised in a nurturing environment, Filas can be well-behaved and reliable companions. However, their natural suspicion of strangers and territorial nature can manifest as aggression if not appropriately managed.

Aggression in Filas is often a result of fear or a perceived threat to their family or territory. Responsible ownership, early training, and consistent socialisation are key factors in preventing unwanted aggression. It's essential for owners to understand and respect the breed's protective nature while ensuring that their Fila is a well-rounded and balanced member of the family.

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