.:. Fila Rescue, Inc .:. BREED INFO

From the FCI Breed Standard:
Character and Temperament
Courage, determination and outstanding braveness are part of his characteristics. He is docile to his owners and family and extremely tolerant with children. His faithfulness became a Brazilian proverb (Faithful as a Fila). He is always looking for the company of his master. One of his characteristics is his distrust (ojeriza) of strangers. He shows a calm disposition, self assurance and self confidence, not being disturbed by strange noises or when facing a new environment. An unsurpassed guardian of the property, he is as well dedicated by instinct to the hunt of big game and to cattle herding.

Is The Fila Right For Me?

If you have to ask this question, the answer is probably "no."

Filas are very protective and are stranger aggressive. They will not hesitate to attack someone if they feel that person is a threat. This can include children who walk past your fence on their way to school every day. This can also include family members whom your Fila does not live with. If you have guests over on a regular basis, you probably should not have a Fila. A Fila in full temperament becomes a potentially dangerous situation. You have to ask yourself these questions:

* Why do I want a Fila?

If the answer is, "because they are big," there are several other breeds in the mastiff family that could offer you the size you want. The Fila is not the biggest by far. If the answer is, "because they are mean" (or something similar), then you don't need a dog at all.

* Do I want the responsibility of owning a Fila?

The answer is probably no. They don't like or trust strangers. This is not a breed that you will be able to let run around with you in the park, or your children can take to school for show-and-tell. They are a risk to have around any time strangers are involved, like trips to the vet, and visitors in your home.

* Am I willing to take the time necessary for training and socializing?

It is highly recommended that you take your Fila to obedience classes. This is a very important step to take in a healthy relationship with you and your Fila. And there is no such thing as "over socializing" a Fila.

* What about Filas and children?

Filas are very good with, and can be extremely tolerant of, "their" children. Not ALL Filas are good with children. Some, like in every other breed, are very poor with children.

They are NOT, however, good with other people's children. They will not tolerate your child's playmates, as the Fila sees them as strangers. They will perceive rough-housing as a threat to your child, and will react accordingly to protect his family.

Even the best Fila does not know what is too rough for a small child, nor does a small child know what is too rough for a Fila. They must be supervised at all times.