A very unusual combination, the Brazilian Mastiff is in fact a mastiff/bloodhound mix. They have traits of both breeds; including the famed sense of smell bloodhounds are so well known for. They also have the protectiveness and gentleness with children so common in mastiffs. Hailing from Brazil, they are known (in Portuguese) as Fila Brasileiro. Formerly employed as guards for plantations, they found their way to North America with 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.

Gentle like most mastiffs, they are capable of aggression when called for. Excellent guard dogs, they are nonetheless very good with children. They are also famed for their loyalty.

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.

A downside to the breed is that they are not good at dealing with strangers. They have been known to attack strangers with no provocation or warning. For this reason, they should be kept locked up if say, a repairman is coming.

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.

When you’re picking out a Brazilian Mastiff puppy, be picky about where you buy it. Make very sure that your dealer is honest and reputable. You would do well to gather references ahead of time. This way, you can make sure the new member of your family comes from a good place.