Sentry Kennels Filas is dedicated to the continuation of this rare breed as it was meant to be, both in body type and in temperament. The Fila is a large breed that is a natural protector. They are excellent guard dogs who protect out of devotion to their families.
It is our aim at Sentry Kennels Filas to match Fila pups with families who understand the Fila's protective temperament and are fully prepared for the responsibility that owning this large breed requires.
Please realize that the Fila Brasileiro is not the dog for everyone, even though we believe them to be the greatest dogs in the world. You will not find a better watch dog or more loyal pet than the Fila. They are extremely protective of their families and their properties. The behavior of the Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff) is described as having "Ojeriza", a Portuguese word meaning aversion to strangers.
As a potential Fila owner, you must be prepared to handle these loyal companions appropriately. I have heard many horror stories of these steadfast guardians being put down simply because they were doing what they thought was their duty. These are not vicious animals, but they will bite and hold until you take over. They will not tolerate strangers well! You cannot leave a Fila unattended with anyone they do not know well.
As a Fila Breeder, I have many adult Filas on my property. I do not even leave my Filas alone with people whom they are comfortable with in my presence because as soon as I am out of sight, they immediately go into "watch dog" mode. One of my Filas trapped my own mother in the bathroom for an hour. We finally heard her yelling for help and rescued her!
It is best to have a high fenced yard to turn them out into. Filas are NOT kennel dogs. Do not purchase a 10 x 10 kennel and a dog box and expect to put your Fila there for life. These are protection dogs who long to be with their "their people". They cannot do what nature has instilled in them to do if you leave them in an outdoor kennel. Please don't misunderstand - this is fine for short term, but do not leave your Fila out alone for long periods of time.
The Brazilian Mastiff (Fila Brasileiro) develops his/her natural protection tendencies as they bond with their owners. It kicks in as they become more and more devoted to you. I have seen evidence of this as early as 8 weeks of age. Their guard instincts grow as you lavish love and affection on them. Supply both of these in abundance, and you will have the most loyal companion imaginable. I am sure, if you have studied the Fila Brasileiro breed, you have learned of the Brazilian expression, "Faithful as a Fila". Their loyalty is legend.
Also be aware that, like all dogs, Filas need to have adequate exercise. They are not high-energy dogs, they will not be jumping all over your house (or you) and you will never find them bouncing off the walls. They love lying around at your feet (or in your lap if you let them), but for good health, they need more than a brief walk outside to take care of business.
As a Brazilian Mastiff breeder I ask you to please be a responsible Fila owner, and give them at least one good walk a day (it will be good for you, too - dog owners live longer!) Don't be fooled by their lazy attitude, either. They can become alert in a millisecond and are extremely fast. That is why they have been used to hunt jaguar in their native country. Always use sensible control with this steadfast guardian!
