Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison

Cao de Fila da Terceira is originated from Portugal but Antebellum Bulldog is originated from United States. Cao de Fila da Terceira may grow 9 cm / 3 inches shorter than Antebellum Bulldog. Cao de Fila da Terceira may weigh 12 kg / 27 pounds more than Antebellum Bulldog. Cao de Fila da Terceira may live 3 years less than Antebellum Bulldog. Both Cao de Fila da Terceira and Antebellum Bulldog has same litter size. Both Cao de Fila da Terceira and Antebellum Bulldog requires Low maintenance.

History

The Cao de Fila da Terceira Mastiff hails from Portugal and is also known as the Rabo Torto.The dog actually comes from the isle of Terceira in the Azores. The dog descends from mastiffs, bulldogs and local dogs.

It was in the 1960s that there was an attempt to revive the dwindling numbers of the breed. The dog was declared extinct in the 1970s but there were some people in the Azores who wanted to see the breed restored, and it remains a mystery as to if the dog is in fact still available. The breed isn’t recognized by kennel clubs.

antebellum bulldog - historyThe history of the Antebellum Bulldog dates back the 1600s where it was used as a lasting solution to drive away hogs in rice plantation farms in Altamaha River in Georgia. After the plantation system became dominant in most parts of the United States, a majority of the farmers had to think of a more creative way of driving away wild feral pigs and cattle. Having caused multiple deaths to humans due to their massive bodies and extremely sharp horns, farm owners had no option but to employ bulldogs as the only means of security.

Although these dogs served their purpose of protecting their masters while still being family companions, their age of extinction came during the Civil War where the economy at the Altamaha region was permanently altered. After the fall of plantation farming and abolition of slavery, the Antebellum Bulldog became a forgotten breed something which led to its extinction. However, as years passed by, this rare breed was eventually reintroduced by the Maxwell family under strict guidelines by the Animal Research Foundation.

Description

The Cao de Fila da Terceira is a medium sized molosser, recognized by his weird tail – short and twirled. In fact, the dog’s other name, Rabo Torto, actually stands for ‘twisted tail’, which is a trademark of this dog and which is thought to come from the mix of bulldog in him.

The dog’s coat is short and smooth and the color is usually fawn or yellow while other colors such as brindle, red or black are also available but less acceptable. You may also find small white markings on the chest and feet.

Standing at about 55cm, the dog is muscular and powerful with a broad head, medium sized floppy ears, wide chest and strong muzzle.

The Cao de Fila da Terceira is a good guard dog and while he doesn’t like strangers, he is a dog who is loving and devoted with his human family. See that he gets socialized and trained and he is capable of establishing a deep relationship with all members of the family, children and other pets included. He relies on his owners to provide him with warmth and communication.

antebellum bulldog puppy - descriptionThe Antebellum Bulldog is a recently introduced breed that was developed with an aim of recreating the historic working bulldog or Southern breed. First introduced in the United States, this bulldog was initially bred to be used as a working dog in rice plantations in Altamaha River Valley, a region in South East Georgia.

By nature, the Antebellum Bulldog is an extremely loving, loyal, affectionate, and very intelligent pet. Due to that reason, this breed is a perfect choice for a family dog. If we can get back to history, it’s evident that this dog breed was used in plantation farms to secure the rice from damages caused by cattle and wild hogs. Relating these tasks to the dog’s overall personality, you will find that indeed the Antebellum Bulldog is one such breed that can be trusted as a watchdog in today’s homes.

Appearance

The Antebellum Bulldog is very similar to the American Bulldog only that it’s a little bit larger and bulkier with a proportionally bigger head. These breeds usually range from bigger to biggest with males weighing around 36 to 68 Kg (80—150 pounds) and females 32 to 50 Kg (70—110 pounds). Similar to the American Bulldog, the Antebellum Bulldog has a rough coat, long legs, an athletic body and short tail/ears that don’t require any cropping.

Temperament

Despite of their intimidating appearance, the Antebellum Bulldog is an extremely loving, passionate, and loyal pet that will suit perfectly as a family dog. These dogs will lie down to their masters and will need nothing more than constant company. According to professional breeders, the Antebellum Bulldog is most likely to form a close attachment to one member of the family although they still do enjoy hanging out with the rest of the family members.

As it is the case with most American Bulldogs, the Antebellum Bulldog has a very strong protective instinct that makes it react violently when strangers step into its territories. Something else you need to know about this Bulldog breed is that it does get along well with kids to a point of being overprotective. Since puppies are usually over playful, adults are highly advised to watch out as they can accidentally bowl or knock over your toddler.

Grooming needs

The Antebellum Bulldog doesn’t have to be professionally groomed as is the case with most dog breeds. Apart from a weekly brushing of the coat, the other grooming needs you’re supposed to observe include; regular brushing of the teeth and trimming of nails from an early stage.

Characteristics

If only dog owners would realize that when it comes to a dog’s characteristics, that while there are some traits inherent in a dog, essentially it’s a case of you reap what you sow with a dog. Treat your dog badly, ignore him and abuse him and you get an aggressive, volatile dog who is a threat to the very humans who created the monster in him.

The Cão de Fila da Terceira will certainly need excellent training and socialization, and when he receives plenty of loving attention from his human family he becomes an amazing, relaxed pet. He becomes patient and sweet-tempered so that you can ultimately call him guardian and friend.

Children friendliness

antebellum bulldog dog - characteristicsAlthough the Antebellum Bulldog is quite intimidating, this dog can make a great pet thanks to its loving, patient, and extremely tolerant characteristics. This dog enjoys playing with young children as well as other members of the family although proper care should be observed to avoid injuring young toddlers due to their muscular bodies.

Special talents

The Antebellum Bulldog is a protective dog breed with very strong guarding instincts. New visitors will have to be very careful as these dog breeds are quite wary of strangers and will not treat them politely. However, if you become familiar with them, they are likely to know you and later accept you as part of a large family.

Adaptability

Speaking of adaptability, the Antebellum Bulldog is more of a working dog than a household pet. Although some people will prefer to keep them indoors, always ensure that your homestead has a backyard where they can exercise. Otherwise, these dog breed will prefer to be kept in rural areas where there are vast tracks of land for them to play on.

Learning ability

Finally, the Antebellum Bulldog is an intelligent dog with a very sharp memory. However, due to their extremely playful nature, they can become very stubborn and messy. Therefore, owners are advised to train them early enough before they are fully grown.

Health Problems

The Cão de Fila da Terceira is a healthy dog breed, but even so, you need to be looking out for some ailments which can threaten the comfort and wellbeing of any dog.

Constipation:

This can often be brought about by the wrong diet. When you see your pet battling to clear out the bowels, it can often be rectified by altering your dog’s diet. Speak to your vet if it continues. Your vet may suggest adding some form of nutritious oil to your pet’s diet.

Heart Problems:

Dogs can also suffer from heart disease, especially when there is an obstruction to the flow of blood to the brain which can cause your pet to collapse. Veterinary attention must be sought without delay.

Kidney Failure:

Frequent passing of water can be indicative of a kidney problem. Veterinary advice will be needed.

antebellum bulldog puppies - health problemsThe Antebellum Bulldog has a life expectancy of 12—15 years. Recognized as an emerging breed, this dog doesn’t have many health problems as compared to most other dog breeds. Although these dogs are muscular and very athletic, these breeds suffer from various health conditions which are caused by the nature of their coat. Among the common health problems of the Antebellum Bulldog include

Blindness

One major health problem that affects blue-eyed dog breeds (such as this one) is possible blindness. This condition is usually caused by diabetes, hypertension or Cushing’s syndrome. To treat this condition, you need to take your dog for regular veterinary checkups to know the root cause of the problem.

Hip dysplasia

Another health problem that is very familiar with most Antebellum Bulldogs is hip dysplasia. Since these dog breeds are usually muscular and very huge, this condition is most likely to affect them, especially at an early stage. Dog owners should, therefore, be very familiar with this condition and should take their pets for regular veterinary tests to avoid it.

Caring The Pet

Companionship is important for the Cao de Fila da Terceira, and if you don’t have another dog in the home, as a pack animal, your dog will rely on you for being an active part of his life. A dog that is well treated becomes thoroughly loyal to his owner.

Diet:

A balanced diet is important for health and for a shiny coat. If you’re unsure of how to feed your Terceira, speak to your veterinarian first. Your vet will know that protein for instance, is essential for your dog. The vet will also speak to you about how to feed a puppy, an adult dog, a pregnant female dog and also feeding your senior dog. Your vet will also explain the hazards of overfeeding and how raw meat also needs to be included in your pet’s diet.

Fresh, cool water is your pet’s life-blood and should be available to your dog night and day. Every dog can benefit too from taking a daily supplement rich in omega-3 fatty acid.

Grooming:

The grooming of your pet will depend on the breed. The Cão de Fila da Terceira has a short coat so he will be easy to maintain. Brush him twice a week to remove loose hairs.

Areas which also need checking daily are the eyes to see that there is no discharge. It is also important to inspect the ears as there should be no build-up of wax inside the ear. Toenails also need attention and should be clipped if they grow long from the pet not walking on hard surfaces.

Feeding the puppy

antebellum bulldog dogs - caringFeeding an Antebellum Bulldog is much similar to feeding other dogs. Owners are highly advised to stick to high-quality hypoallergenic diets that are rich in vitamins and nutrients. Now, since Antebellum Bulldog puppies are usually playful, feeding them with high nutrient food thrice a day will really help. Always avoid feeding your puppies with processed foods or foods with artificial sugars as they can expose the puppies to severe health problems.

Feeding the adult

When feeding senior Antebellum Bulldog, there are some small changes you’ll need to make. First, these dogs will require high-quality foods that are easy to digest. Wet foods are perfect for Antebellum Bulldogs as they will help to keep them hydrated. Buy dog foods low in calories and rich in essential vitamins and nutrients to match your dog’s energy.

Points for good health

Antebellum Bulldog can add extra weight if proper care is not observed when feeding them. Due to this reason, these dogs should be fed depending on their level of activity to avoid cases of obesity.

Games and exercises

Since their ancestors were used to guard rice plantations in Altamaha, Antebellum Bulldogs are very energetic and highly suited in rural settings over indoor lifestyle. However, if you decide to keep these dogs as pets in your households, it’s advisable that you provide them with some playing space in the backyard.

When it comes to training the Antebellum Bulldog, owners are advised to train them to be obedient at an early stage as they can get really stubborn in the future. These dogs are very intelligent and they never forget what they learn once they’ve mastered it.

Basic Information

Group:
Molosser dogs
Working dog
Origin:
Portugal
United States
Height Male:
53 - 57 cm
20 - 23 inches
46 - 66 cm
18 - 26 inches
Height Female:
53 - 57 cm
20 - 23 inches
46 - 66 cm
18 - 26 inches
Weight Male:
70 - 80 kg
154 - 177 pounds
36 - 68 kg
79 - 150 pounds
Weight Female:
67 - 80 kg
147 - 177 pounds
32 - 50 kg
70 - 111 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 8
4 - 8
Size:
Large dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Rabo Torto
Altamaha Plantation Dog, Altamaha Plantation Bulldog
Colors Available:
Fawn, yellow, brindle, red or black
White, sable brown, brindle and beige
Coat:
Short and dense
Short and soft
Shedding:
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Aggressive, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Dogue De Bordeaux vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  2. Perro de Presa Canario vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  3. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  4. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  5. Molossus vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  6. Danish Broholmer vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  7. Sage Koochee vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  8. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Cane Corso - Breed Comparison
  9. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Bakharwal Dog - Breed Comparison
  10. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Cabecudo Boiadeiro - Breed Comparison
  11. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Canis Panther - Breed Comparison
  12. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Cao de Castro Laboreiro - Breed Comparison
  13. Cordoba Fighting Dog vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  14. Perro Cimarron vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  15. Perro de Toro vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  16. Gran Mastin de Borinquen vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  17. Korean Mastiff vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  18. Samoyed vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  19. Labradoodle vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  20. Mixed vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  21. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  22. Great Pyrenees vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  23. Old English Sheepdog vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  24. Presa Canario vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  25. Samoyed vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  26. Alaskan Malamute vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Bullmastiff vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  28. Great Pyrenees vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  29. Boerboel vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  30. Presa Canario vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  31. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Labrador Husky vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  33. Argentine Dogo vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  34. Giant Schnauzer vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  35. Belgian Shepherd vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  36. Goldador vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  37. Bandog vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  38. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  39. Dogo Cubano vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  40. Dogo Sardesco vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  41. Beauceron vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  42. Central Asian Shepherd vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  43. Mackenzie River Husky vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  44. Black Russian Terrier vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  45. German Longhaired Pointer vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  46. Pyredoodle vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  47. Entlebucher Mountain Dog vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  48. Lurcher vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  49. Maremma Sheepdog vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds