Living with a Fila Brasileiro can be a unique and rewarding experience, but it’s not for everyone. The Fila Brasileiro is a large, powerful, and loyal breed originally developed in Brazil for guarding livestock and protecting property. Here’s what you can expect if you live with one:
### 1. **Loyalty and Protectiveness**
- **Loyal:** The Fila Brasileiro is incredibly loyal to its family and forms strong bonds with its owners. They are known for their "ojeriza" (an inherent distrust of strangers), which makes them excellent guard dogs.
- **Protective:** This breed takes its guarding duties seriously. They are naturally suspicious of strangers, and this protectiveness can be a double-edged sword—while it keeps you and your home safe, it can also make socialization and handling challenging.
### 2. **Size and Strength**
- **Large and Powerful:** Filas are big dogs, often weighing between 90 to 110 pounds or more. Their strength is impressive, and they require an owner who can handle their size and power.
- **Space Requirements:** Due to their size, they need ample space to move around. They aren’t well-suited to apartment living unless you can provide plenty of outdoor time.
### 3. **Exercise Needs**
- **High Energy:** Filas have moderate to high energy levels. They need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy, which includes daily walks and playtime. Lack of exercise can lead to behavioral issues.
- **Mental Stimulation:** In addition to physical activity, Filas need mental stimulation. This can be provided through training sessions, puzzle toys, or other engaging activities.
### 4. **Training and Socialization**
- **Early Socialization:** Because of their natural wariness of strangers, early and consistent socialization is crucial. Exposing them to various people, places, and situations as puppies can help moderate their protective instincts.
- **Firm Training:** Filas need a confident, experienced owner who can establish themselves as the pack leader. Positive reinforcement methods work best, but training must be firm and consistent.
### 5. **Health Considerations**
- **Common Health Issues:** Filas are prone to certain health problems, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bloat. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy diet are important to maintain their health.
- **Lifespan:** The average lifespan of a Fila Brasileiro is around 9-12 years.
### 6. **Affection and Family Life**
- **Family-Oriented:** Despite their intimidating appearance and demeanor, Filas are affectionate with their families. They can be gentle and loving, especially with children they’ve grown up with.
- **Not for Everyone:** Due to their protective nature and size, Filas are not ideal for first-time dog owners. They require a lot of attention, training, and care, making them best suited for experienced dog owners who understand the breed’s needs.
### 7. **Shedding and Grooming**
- **Moderate Shedding:** Filas have short coats and are moderate shedders. Regular brushing helps keep their coat healthy and reduces shedding.
- **Basic Grooming:** They don’t require extensive grooming, but like all dogs, they need regular nail trims, ear cleaning, and dental care.
### 8. **Legal Considerations**
- **Breed Restrictions:** In some places, Filas are considered a restricted breed due to their protective nature and potential for aggression if not properly trained and socialized. It’s important to check local laws and regulations before getting one.
### Conclusion
Living with a Fila Brasileiro can be deeply rewarding if you’re prepared for the responsibility. They are devoted, protective, and can be great companions, but they require an owner who understands their unique characteristics and can provide the proper training, socialization, and care.
