The Brazilian Mastiff

Read this article about this new dog in the My Animals dog breed library that’s worth learning about. The Brazilian Mastiff was inspired by the saying, “faithful as a dog.” Let’s find out why and see what’s so special about this dog.

Meet the faithful Mastiff

Origins

People believe that this breed — instead of having been “created” by mankind cross-breeding different dogs — has evolved over time according to the needs of Brazilian colonizers.

Despite that many people think it’s a combination of three breeds: bulldogs, mastiffs, and bloodhounds. The truth is that the first mastiffs ever recorded date from 1671. This means this breed is not that old when compared to others. However, it’s difficult to know exactly when they appeared.

It turns out that the first inhabitants of Brazil needed a loyal versatile dog that could do the work of a shepherd, a hunting dog, and a guard dog.

Since slaves worked in the sugar cane plantations, the Brazilian Mastiff was in charge of watching over them. That’s because there were around 200 slaves per plantation, and it was easy for one to escape without anybody noticing. Even after slavery was abolished, Brazilian Mastiffs continued to do other jobs.

Note that around the year 1954, some specimens were exported to Germany,  which is how this breed began to spread all over the world. 

Traits of the Brazilian Mastiff

The Brazilian Mastiff belongs to the Molosser group, and its fur is short and soft, and it will always be one solid color without spots. However, it may have white spots on its feet, chest, and on the tip of its tail. Sometimes it may have a black mask. These colors are at random except for brindle, spotted, black, or red.

On the other hand, its skin is thick and loose, which is similar to that of the Shar-Pei because it folds and it has a noticeable jowl on its neck. This dog may have skin folds on its chest and abdomen. Also, although it doesn’t have any folds on its head, they may appear when this dog stands alert.

A male’s height measures between 65 and 75 cm, while females measure around 5 cm less. They can weigh up to 50 kilograms, or 40 kilos for females. However, they are agile and flexible, and capable of climbing a wall of 1.70 meters. Their ears are long and droop down on each side of their faces, while their eyes are almond-shaped and can have any tone from dark brown to yellow.

Personality of the Brazilian Mastiff

Although the Brazilian Mastiff is loyal to his family, it’s just as intense when he shows his dislike towards strangers. So, you could say that this breed has a dual personality. In fact, breeders do consider this breed’s temperament much more than appearance, when comes to choosing which ones to breed.

This dog is brave, docile, obedient, and very tolerant of children. Likewise, it’s calm-natured, very confident and adapts easily to new environments.

Health and care

Note that this breed doesn’t have any common health problems except for hip dysplasia, which doesn’t happen in many cases.

As for any specific care, their ears and skin folds are ideal places for parasites and bacteria. Checking these parts at least several times a week, and wiping them with wet cotton balls will help your pet stay healthy. Also, brushing its fur once a week is necessary and can help remove debris in these hidden areas as well.

The Brazilian Mastiff is a special dog and its personality can be sometimes complicated. With that in mind, and also taking its large size into consideration, you should think it over if this type of dog is one you need. Remember that adoption is a great responsibility.