Mixed vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison | MyDogBreeds

Mixed is originated from United States but Fila Brasileiro is originated from Brazil. Mixed may grow 35 cm / 14 inches higher than Fila Brasileiro. Mixed may weigh 32 kg / 71 pounds more than Fila Brasileiro. Mixed may live 8 years more than Fila Brasileiro. Both Mixed and Fila Brasileiro has almost same litter size. Both Mixed and Fila Brasileiro requires Moderate maintenance.

History

Many people are inclined to think that mixed breed or cross-breed dogs, also known as mutts or mongrels or designer dogs are just pavement specials. They think they look nothing much better than junkyard mutts.

This may be so, but not always, and these mixed breed dogs always seem to have hearts of gold. A Mixed breed is a dog that has parent’s who aren’t registered and who come from different breeds. In other words the parents aren’t of the same breed.

Guessing a cross breed’s ancestry can be difficult as these mixed-breeds have more genetic variation than pure breeds. They've been around since ancient times. The dogs originate in different countries and they all have different coats, different sizes and different temperaments.

It is sad but true – there are literally millions of mixed dogs worldwide, some of which never know what it is to live with- and be lovingly cared for by a human being.

fila brasileiro - historyHailing from Brazil, and known also as the Brazilian Mastiff, nobody seems to be too sure of the exact origins of the large Fila Brasileiro but it is believed to be a cross between the English Mastiff, the Bulldog and the Bloodhound.

Other theories are that the dog comes from a mix of Portuguese and Spanish dogs and that they were bred to guard livestock from predators. Breeds that have no doubt contributed to the modern Fila are the Bullenbeisser, the Bloodhound, Mastiff and Rafeiro do Alentejo. All these dogs have characteristics such as excellent working dog skills, herding instincts as well as courage and tenacity.

The official Brazilian breed standard of the Fila was developed in the 1960s and the Fila Brasileiro Club of America was formed in 1984.

Description

Sometimes Mixed dog breeds come about from two dogs meeting on the streets and mating or it could be two pure-breeds accidentally mating, resulting in a mixed breed.

The mixed breed dog puppy could inherit looks from just the one purebred parent so that he grows up looking like a pure-breed. With a cross breed the standard for breeding isn’t the same for purebreds where the appearance and temperament is more or less the same.

A mixed breed dog doesn’t have these standards to conform to and they are as varied and unique as the colors in the rainbow. It’s not possible to know what a mixed breed dog’s puppies will look like. A typical example of a mixed breed is a Labradoodle. People love the temperament of the Labrador but they want the low shedding qualities of the Poodle as well.

Mixed breed dogs can be small or large and that means different litter sizes. If you don’t want your Mixed dog breed becoming a parent, you can spay or neuter your dog.

Temperament:

There are many people who avoid choosing a ridiculously high priced pure breed puppy and they prefer to choose a mixed breed. This is partly because these mixed breed dogs are healthy, resilient and nearly always a good match for you and your family.

fila brasileiro puppy - descriptionWith his huge head covered in loose skin much like that of a Blooohound, and a body resembling that of a Mastiff, the large heavily built Fila Brasileiro is a mastiff breed from Brazil. He stands at 60 to 75cm in height and he weighs roughly 55 to 80kg.

The ears of the Fila are large and droop down or are folded back, depending on his mood. The tail is long and slim. The coat of the dog is short and dense with the texture being quite smooth and soft. Colours of the coat can vary from solid fawn or black to red to brindle.

Temperament:

Perhaps the huge Fila wouldn’t be a good choice as a pet for the first-time inexperienced dog owner as he is a powerful, intelligent, self-assured, headstrong animal that will certainly need to have training and socialization if you want him as an obedient pet in your home.

He is a dog known for his courage and bravery. The Fila is loving and affectionate with his human family, being protective of them and not being too friendly with strangers. He isn't a particularly good pet choice with children in the home.

Some people, after buying a cute Fila puppy, put him out in the yard when he becomes large, and then they pretty much neglect him. This is cruel and irresponsible as he is a social, playful dog who wants to be part of his human family.

These dogs have some aggression in them and this makes them good watchdogs. They generally don’t show aggression towards their family but may snap at a stranger who tries to touch as he feels threatened.

Characteristics

Doesn’t matter what your Mixed breed dog looks like – he is a unique individual and you can never really predict what kind of a character he will turn out to be.

He might inherit a bit of placid behavior from one parent and a bit of clownish behavior from the other. It’s what makes them so special.

Ask most dog lovers who have owned a mixed breed and you will usually hear them say that they wouldn’t trade their amazing loyal and devoted pet for all the money in the world.

fila brasileiro dog - characteristicsThe Fila Brasileiro or Brazilian Mastiff is a powerful dog and it is believed that a large dog like this can be a danger to people if he isn’t trained and socialized.

He is therefore not recommended for first time dog owners or homes with small children. He is a dog that is particularly wary of strangers too.

When he has been properly socialized he can be loving, loyal and obedient because it is essentially how a dog is brought up as to how he turns out.

If you bring one of these big, beautiful dogs into your home, have him socialized as a puppy, treat him firmly, but kindly and you could have yourself an extraordinary pet.

Health Problems

All dogs, whether pure breeds or mixed breeds, need to be excellently cared for. When you consider the unconditional love your dog gives you, you want to ensure that you’re kind and loving towards him.

Every dog can be prone to common dog illnesses and there are some genetic predispositions for dogs with certain breeds within them.

Dental Disease:

All dogs can battle with problem teeth, but it appears to be more rife with smaller dogs. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up and when it isn’t removed from the teeth it progresses towards infection of the gums and teeth.

What you need to know is that not caring for the teeth can mean your pet losing his teeth but also putting your dog in danger of joint disease and problems with the kidneys and heart.

Obesity:

Obesity is a huge factor in small- and large dogs and can pave the way for other diseases with your pet. Being obese can shorten the life of your pet because it contributes to heart disease, digestive disorders, back pain and joint problems.

Parasites:

Fleas, ticks, mites and worms can play havoc with the health of your pet. Some of these parasites can then be transmitted from your pet to you. Parasites can cause pain, weight loss and even death for your pet so it is important to be vigilant in these matters.

Bloat, when the stomach twists and fills with gas as well as cancer and heart disease are just some of the more common diseases to look out for.

fila brasileiro puppies - health problemsFilas are a dog breed who have a high rate of hip- and elbow dysplasia. This is a serious disease which can lead to lameness with your pet. Other orthopedic diseases with the breed include osteochondritis and luxating patella.

Also, as a deep-chested dog breed, your Fila also is at risk of getting the very serious gastrointestinal syndrome known as bloat. This is a common condition that can prove deadly for your pet. The Fila’s stomach will fill with gas, putting pressure on other organs and stopping blood flow to the heart and difficulty with breathing. Sometimes the stomach will twist. Get him to the vet immediately if you notice a swollen stomach, drooling or restless behaviour.

Caring The Pet

Good nutritious food, exercise, grooming, a dry place to sleep, taking your pet to the vet when he is sick as well as plenty of love and attention will ensure your Mixed dog breed’s health and happiness.

  • Brush his coat twice a week.
  • Check the ears and eyes for infection.
  • Check his teeth and be careful what you give your pet to chew on.

Keep die diet of your pet simple and consistent to avoid digestive problems. Quality commercially manufactured food is a good choice. Boiled chicken, brown rice and cooked or raw vegetables will be excellent added into your dog’s kibble from time to time. Add in some raw meat occasionally as it is good for warding off skin diseases.

Exercise your pet regularly, but don’t overdo it with young dogs as it can lead to joint problems later on in life.

Exercise and Space:

fila brasileiro dogs - caringThe Filas size makes it important that he have a good amount of exercise if you want to maintain his health and happiness. He isn’t a dog suited to city life as he is too large and will irritate his owners when cooped up in a tiny space with them. He isn’t demanding when it comes to exercise and activities all the time, but he should still be exercised regularly as he is inclined to become lazy .

Grooming:

Moderate shedding. Regular brushing twice a week will be required. Check ears for infection and brush his teeth 2 or 3 times a week.

Diet:

Nothing is set in stone as to what to feed your Fila Brasileiro, but a large dog will require quality food with a good amount of protein and fat according to size, age and activity levels.

Because a large breed dog is prone to hip dysplasia, look out for ingredients such as chondroitin and gludosamine which are specifically good for joint health. Try and avoid commercially manufactured food with common allergens such as soy, corn and wheat, artifical flavors and fillers.

A source of cooked rice, chicken and vegetables as well as some raw meat will be excellent for your big pet. Make sure he is never deprived of fresh, cool drinking water.

Basic Information

Group:
Companion dog
Working dog
Origin:
United States
Brazil
Height Male:
9 - 110 cm
3 - 44 inches
60 - 75 cm
23 - 30 inches
Height Female:
9 - 110 cm
3 - 44 inches
60 - 75 cm
23 - 30 inches
Weight Male:
2 - 112 kg
4 - 247 pounds
55 - 80 kg
121 - 177 pounds
Weight Female:
2 - 112 kg
4 - 247 pounds
55 - 80 kg
121 - 177 pounds
Life Span:
9 - 20 Years
9 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 12
4 - 10
Size:
Large dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Cross breed, mutt, cur, mongrel
Brazilian Mastiff
Colors Available:
cream, tri-colored, Brown, tan, black, white, bi-colored, liver, chocolate
red, black, Fawn, brindle
Coat:
Short to long, single or double-coat
Short and dense
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Detached, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Mixed vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  2. Mixed vs Labradoodle - Breed Comparison
  3. Mixed vs Bernedoodle - Breed Comparison
  4. Mixed vs Giant Maso Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  5. Schnauzerdor vs Mixed - Breed Comparison
  6. Pastor Garafiano vs Mixed - Breed Comparison
  7. Shepard Labrador vs Mixed - Breed Comparison
  8. Utonagan vs Mixed - Breed Comparison
  9. Samoyed vs Mixed - Breed Comparison
  10. Mixed vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  11. Mixed vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  12. Mixed vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  13. Mixed vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  14. Mixed vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  15. Mixed vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  16. Mixed vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  17. Mixed vs Cane Corso - Breed Comparison
  18. Mixed vs Alaskan Malamute - Breed Comparison
  19. Mixed vs Bullmastiff - Breed Comparison
  20. Mixed vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  21. Mixed vs Dogue De Bordeaux - Breed Comparison
  22. Mixed vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  23. Mixed vs Bloodhound - Breed Comparison
  24. Samoyed vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  25. Great Pyrenees vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  26. Presa Canario vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  27. Labrador Husky vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  28. Giant Schnauzer vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  29. Goldador vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  30. Mackenzie River Husky vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  31. German Longhaired Pointer vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  32. Pyredoodle vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  33. Lurcher vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  34. Maremma Sheepdog vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  35. Sarplaninac vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  36. Himalayan Mastiff vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  37. Mountain View Cur vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  38. Native American Indian Dog vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  39. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  40. Greenland Dog vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  41. Komondor vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  42. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  43. Rafeiro do Alentejo vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  44. Fila Brasileiro vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  45. Fila Brasileiro vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  46. Fila Brasileiro vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  47. Fila Brasileiro vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Fila Brasileiro vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds