Overview
The Fila Brasileiro was developed on Brazilian plantations as a cattle dog, tracker and guardian, with a deep distrust of strangers that the breed standard in its home country treats as a virtue. It is a large, loose-skinned mastiff type with a distinctive rolling gait and a reputation for extreme loyalty to its own household.
In the United Kingdom the Fila is one of the dog types prohibited under the Dangerous Dogs Act, alongside the Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa and Dogo Argentino. Legally kept dogs are rare exceptions on the exempted index, and a professional walker is very unlikely to be asked to walk one. This guide exists for completeness and for the sake of recognising the type.
Exercise and walking needs
A Fila's exercise needs are those of a large mastiff: steady walking of around an hour and a half a day, no hard running in heat and careful management of young joints.
Any dog of this type in the UK will be subject to legal conditions on muzzling and leads in public. A walker should confirm those with the owner in writing before taking on the work.
On the walk
- Strangers: The defining trait. Filas are bred to reject unfamiliar people and may not accept a walker at all. This is not a dog that warms up on the second visit.
- Other dogs: Frequently intolerant, especially of same-sex dogs. No group walks and no close greetings.
- Lead and muzzle: Required by law for an exempted dog in public. Make sure the kit is secure and fitted before you leave the property.
- Strength: Immense. You must be physically able to hold the dog in every situation you might meet.
Tips for professional walkers
- Do not take on a Fila without meeting the dog several times with the owner present.
- Walk at quiet times on quiet routes, away from other dogs and crowds.
- Carry the owner's contact details and the dog's exemption paperwork details on every walk.
What to ask the owner
- Is the dog on the Index of Exempted Dogs, and what are the conditions attached to it?
- Has the dog ever accepted a non-family handler, and how was that introduction done?
- What insurance is in place, and does it cover a third party walking the dog?