| The Brazilian standard for the Fila requires "ojeriza" translated as "hatred" or "ill-will" towards strangers. The original dogs were expected to be profoundly aggressive to anyone they did not live with. Of course, American breeding practices are very different from Brazilian ones. The only way to know what type of temperament you are likely to get is to familiarize yourself with the parents, the line, and the puppies as they develop. One problem I have heard of with some Filas, is high suspicion (correct for the breed) combined with weak nerves(absolutely incorrect for the breed.)
I have owned 5 American Bulldogs at various times. There are some really good ones out there, but they can be hard to find. Know what you want, be prepared to look hard and long, and to wade through a lot of BS. Of my 5, one was a genetic/temperament wreck(from a pedigree that should have produced well) 3 were/are nice dogs, but unsuited for the work I wanted them to do. The young one I am training now finally shows the potential I've been looking for.  |