All About the Brazilian Mastiff

A Brazilian Mastiff is a cross between a Mastiff and a Bloodhound. Another name for this breed of dog is Fila Brasileiro. Originally this large dog was bred in order to protect Brazil’s plantations. The ancestral history of the Brazilian Mastiff includes Bloodhounds, Mastiffs and Bulldogs of European origin. The result of this breeding is an amazing dog which possesses the fearless power of a Mastiff and the incredible scenting ability of the Bloodhound.

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The Brazilian Mastiff dogs were also used track, attack and then hold the intended prey until his master had arrived. Mastiff dogs have unique characteristics which set them apart from other canine breeds. Their leg and spine joints are loose to allow the dog to change his direction extremely quickly. This capability is the reason the Mastiff dog is such a good tracking dog.

Learn About Brazilian Mastiff Dogs

Another unusual characteristic for the Mastiff dogs is that they are probably the only breed that was purposely selected because of its dislike of strangers. Ironically, during a dog show the standard for this breed specifically states that the Brazilian Mastiff should not "allow the judge [a stranger] to touch it." The Brazilian Mastiff is a large dog that stands between 27 - 30 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs over 100 pounds.

Mastiff dogs need more supervision, training, and understanding than most other breeds of dog.

More about Mastiffs next time!
Sam

Getting Acquainted with the French Mastiff

The French Mastiff is the common name for Dogue de Bordeaux or Bordeaux Bulldog. This dog has had many uses over its long history, such as war dog, guardian of flocks, and also used as sport in dog fights with bulls, bears, and dogs. During the French Revolution many of these large dogs were killed defending their masters. These dogs were luckily saved by a man named Raymond Triquet along with his group called the French Dogue de Bordeaux Club. Today the French Mastiff is well established in France and gaining popularity in other countries.

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This Mastiff is not easy to breed. Often Cesarean sections are needed because the puppies’ heads are so large. The French Mastiff is a stocky dog with a huge, broad, heavy, wrinkled head. The head features deep wrinkles and a powerful jaw. All French Mastiffs have a mask around the eyes and muzzle. This mask can be either red or black. Grooming is quite easy since they have short coats. Some of the common health problems found in the French Mastiff include heart disease, bloat, epilepsy, obesity, degenerate joint disease, and kidney disease. Some problems can be prevented through a careful diet and regular vet visits.

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Obedience training is a must for Mastiffs. Be consistent with training. Faster and greater learning takes place when the trainer is consistent. Once the French Mastiff learns a lesson he never forgets. Like other Mastiff breeds, the French Mastiff has a calm temperament.

More Later!

Sam