Himalayan Mastiff vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison

Himalayan Mastiff vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed ComparisonHimalayan Mastiff is originated from India but Fila Brasileiro is originated from Brazil. Both Himalayan Mastiff and Fila Brasileiro are having almost same height. Both Himalayan Mastiff and Fila Brasileiro are having almost same weight. Himalayan Mastiff may live 3 years more than Fila Brasileiro. Both Himalayan Mastiff and Fila Brasileiro has same litter size. Both Himalayan Mastiff and Fila Brasileiro requires Moderate maintenance.

History

himalayan mastiff - historyThe Himalayan Mastiff or Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient breed. Bred to be guardians of the flock, they could take care of leopards and wolves or anything else that tied to hurt the flock. The Himalaya Mastiff is found in the Himalayan area of Tibet. They are descendants of the Tibetan dogs that developed almost any Mastiff or Molosser on earth. They may have been in the mountains since the early 1100 BC. and have been fairly isolated. It was in this isolation that the Himalayan Mastiff developed.

Their function at that time was mostly to guard property. In some circumstances an entire village is guarded by one dog. It was also during this period that the breed was taught to be aggressive by tying them up as puppies. They guarded families while the men moved the village flock higher up in the mountains. They stayed in isolation until the mid-1800’s when the Queen of England was given a Himalayan Mastiff. For thousands of years, this dog was a nomad.

Soon the breed was being exported to England. A standard was developed, and the British began to breed them. Next, they were exported to Nepal, Afghanistan, India and the United States. They are rare in Tibet these days but more popular than ever in England and the United States. The first American Himalaya Tibetan Mastiff Association came into being in 1974 and in 2006 it was recognized by the AKC.

Today in the West, the Himalayan is a domesticated, family dog. It hardly fits in an apartment of course. These new western Himalayan Mastiffs are more easy- going than the Tibetan ones, but they are still wary of strangers and somewhat aloof. They are also still very protective and nocturnal. They are smart, independent and stubborn. They are not easy to train but socialization and obedience training is essential.

A study done in 2011 showed that it is very likely that many large breed dogs were descended from this Mastiff. This includes the St. Bernard, the Rottweiler, Bernese Mountain Dog and the Great Pyrenees. Later studies showed that the Mastiff’s ability to survive in the rare air of the Himalayans was due to interbreeding with Tibetan wolves in ancient, prehistoric times. Now they are competing in the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

fila brasileiro - historyHailing from Brazil, and known also as the Brazilian Mastiff, nobody seems to be too sure of the exact origins of the large Fila Brasileiro but it is believed to be a cross between the English Mastiff, the Bulldog and the Bloodhound.

Other theories are that the dog comes from a mix of Portuguese and Spanish dogs and that they were bred to guard livestock from predators. Breeds that have no doubt contributed to the modern Fila are the Bullenbeisser, the Bloodhound, Mastiff and Rafeiro do Alentejo. All these dogs have characteristics such as excellent working dog skills, herding instincts as well as courage and tenacity.

The official Brazilian breed standard of the Fila was developed in the 1960s and the Fila Brasileiro Club of America was formed in 1984.

Description

himalayan mastiff puppy - descriptionThe Himalayan Mastiff is a giant, massive dog longer than it is tall. The breed has a heavy, broad head and square muzzle. They have black noses, a level bite and almond shaped, slanted, deep set eyes. They are brown, and the ears hang close to the head. They are heavy, muscular and sturdy. They have a feathered tail curving over their back. With a heavy, thick double coat and mane they resemble a lion at times. The coat can be brown, black, and gray-blue with gold or tan markings. These are impressive and noble dogs, athletic, with cat like feet. They are agile and light on their feet.

According to some breeders there are two different kinds or types of Himalayan Mastiff. These are the Tsang-khyi or the monastery mastiff type and the Do-khyi or the nomad mastiff type. The monastery is a heavier, taller dog who face is very wrinkled while the nomad is a leaner dog with less facial wrinkles. In any litter there can be both kinds. The kind of work that was given to each dog was dependent on their type. The Monastery kind is given stationary jobs and the nomad kind got the active jobs.

fila brasileiro puppy - descriptionWith his huge head covered in loose skin much like that of a Blooohound, and a body resembling that of a Mastiff, the large heavily built Fila Brasileiro is a mastiff breed from Brazil. He stands at 60 to 75cm in height and he weighs roughly 55 to 80kg.

The ears of the Fila are large and droop down or are folded back, depending on his mood. The tail is long and slim. The coat of the dog is short and dense with the texture being quite smooth and soft. Colours of the coat can vary from solid fawn or black to red to brindle.

Temperament:

Perhaps the huge Fila wouldn’t be a good choice as a pet for the first-time inexperienced dog owner as he is a powerful, intelligent, self-assured, headstrong animal that will certainly need to have training and socialization if you want him as an obedient pet in your home.

He is a dog known for his courage and bravery. The Fila is loving and affectionate with his human family, being protective of them and not being too friendly with strangers. He isn't a particularly good pet choice with children in the home.

Some people, after buying a cute Fila puppy, put him out in the yard when he becomes large, and then they pretty much neglect him. This is cruel and irresponsible as he is a social, playful dog who wants to be part of his human family.

These dogs have some aggression in them and this makes them good watchdogs. They generally don’t show aggression towards their family but may snap at a stranger who tries to touch as he feels threatened.

Characteristics

Children friendliness

himalayan mastiff dog - characteristicsyes, they are if properly socialized.

Special talents

Their athletic ability

Adaptability

They cannot live in an apartment. They need a large yard.

Learning ability

They are intelligent, but difficult to train. They are stubborn and independent.

fila brasileiro dog - characteristicsThe Fila Brasileiro or Brazilian Mastiff is a powerful dog and it is believed that a large dog like this can be a danger to people if he isn’t trained and socialized.

He is therefore not recommended for first time dog owners or homes with small children. He is a dog that is particularly wary of strangers too.

When he has been properly socialized he can be loving, loyal and obedient because it is essentially how a dog is brought up as to how he turns out.

If you bring one of these big, beautiful dogs into your home, have him socialized as a puppy, treat him firmly, but kindly and you could have yourself an extraordinary pet.

Health Problems

himalayan mastiff puppies - health problemsBeing a large breed of canine, the Himalayan Mastiff has some of the typical health issues of large dogs. However, they also face a serious genetic disorder as well.

Canine Inherited Demyelinative Neuropathy (CIDN) – a fatal disorder seen in puppies by seven weeks of age. Puppies die before they are 5 months old.

  • Hip dysplasia – can cause lameness and arthritis.
  • Thyroid Issues – hypothyroidism or low thyroid test results.
  • Ear Infections – clean ears regularly to avoid these.

fila brasileiro puppies - health problemsFilas are a dog breed who have a high rate of hip- and elbow dysplasia. This is a serious disease which can lead to lameness with your pet. Other orthopedic diseases with the breed include osteochondritis and luxating patella.

Also, as a deep-chested dog breed, your Fila also is at risk of getting the very serious gastrointestinal syndrome known as bloat. This is a common condition that can prove deadly for your pet. The Fila’s stomach will fill with gas, putting pressure on other organs and stopping blood flow to the heart and difficulty with breathing. Sometimes the stomach will twist. Get him to the vet immediately if you notice a swollen stomach, drooling or restless behaviour.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the puppy

himalayan mastiff dogs - caringThis breed will eat less than you think they should but don’t overfeed. Puppies need a solid dry food for large dogs. You can free feed 1 cup three times per day.

Feeding the adult

For dogs over a year old you can free feed anywhere from two to four cups of dry food per day. Unlike many other breeds, the Himalaya Mastiff will only eat when hungry and they may not eat more than once a day. They will not overeat. The males might not eat at all when females are in season if they are around them.

Points for Good Health

They have good strength and athletic ability.

Games and Exercises

The Himalayan Mastiff needs regular, routine walks. It is important during these walks that the human leads the way, or the dog heals. Do not overwork a young Himalayan Mastiff. They need work related jobs like structured play time, walking the boundary of their territory, playing frisbee or catch. They work and play in short bursts then rest.

Exercise and Space:

fila brasileiro dogs - caringThe Filas size makes it important that he have a good amount of exercise if you want to maintain his health and happiness. He isn’t a dog suited to city life as he is too large and will irritate his owners when cooped up in a tiny space with them. He isn’t demanding when it comes to exercise and activities all the time, but he should still be exercised regularly as he is inclined to become lazy .

Grooming:

Moderate shedding. Regular brushing twice a week will be required. Check ears for infection and brush his teeth 2 or 3 times a week.

Diet:

Nothing is set in stone as to what to feed your Fila Brasileiro, but a large dog will require quality food with a good amount of protein and fat according to size, age and activity levels.

Because a large breed dog is prone to hip dysplasia, look out for ingredients such as chondroitin and gludosamine which are specifically good for joint health. Try and avoid commercially manufactured food with common allergens such as soy, corn and wheat, artifical flavors and fillers.

A source of cooked rice, chicken and vegetables as well as some raw meat will be excellent for your big pet. Make sure he is never deprived of fresh, cool drinking water.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Working dog
Origin:
India
Brazil
Height Male:
61 - 71 cm
24 - 28 inches
60 - 75 cm
23 - 30 inches
Height Female:
59 - 70 cm
23 - 28 inches
60 - 75 cm
23 - 30 inches
Weight Male:
64 - 78 kg
141 - 172 pounds
55 - 80 kg
121 - 177 pounds
Weight Female:
61 - 75 kg
134 - 166 pounds
55 - 80 kg
121 - 177 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 15 Years
9 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
4 - 10
Size:
Large dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Do-Khyi Tsang-khyi Tibetan Mastiff
Brazilian Mastiff
Colors Available:
brown, sable with white markings, blue, red, black, gray, gold
red, black, Fawn, brindle
Coat:
double coated, with a heavy, wooly undercoat and coarse guard hair.
Short and dense
Shedding:
Seasonal
Moderate
Temperament:
Courageous, Independent, Intelligent, Loyal, Protective
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
No
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Samoyed vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  2. Presa Canario vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  3. Labrador Husky vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  4. Mackenzie River Husky vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  5. Pyredoodle vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  6. Lurcher vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  7. Maremma Sheepdog vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  8. Sarplaninac vs Himalayan Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  9. Himalayan Mastiff vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  10. Himalayan Mastiff vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Himalayan Mastiff vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Himalayan Mastiff vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  13. Himalayan Mastiff vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  14. Himalayan Mastiff vs Alaskan Malamute - Breed Comparison
  15. Himalayan Mastiff vs Bullmastiff - Breed Comparison
  16. Himalayan Mastiff vs Great Pyrenees - Breed Comparison
  17. Himalayan Mastiff vs Boerboel - Breed Comparison
  18. Himalayan Mastiff vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  19. Himalayan Mastiff vs Argentine Dogo - Breed Comparison
  20. Himalayan Mastiff vs Giant Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  21. Himalayan Mastiff vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  22. Himalayan Mastiff vs Belgian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  23. Himalayan Mastiff vs Goldador - Breed Comparison
  24. Himalayan Mastiff vs Bandog - Breed Comparison
  25. Himalayan Mastiff vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  26. Samoyed vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  27. Great Pyrenees vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  28. Presa Canario vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  29. Labrador Husky vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  30. Giant Schnauzer vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  31. Goldador vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  32. Mackenzie River Husky vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  33. German Longhaired Pointer vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  34. Pyredoodle vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  35. Lurcher vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  36. Maremma Sheepdog vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  37. Sarplaninac vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  38. Himalayan Mastiff vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  39. Mountain View Cur vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  40. Native American Indian Dog vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  41. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  42. Greenland Dog vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  43. Komondor vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  44. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  45. Rafeiro do Alentejo vs Fila Brasileiro - Breed Comparison
  46. Fila Brasileiro vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  47. Fila Brasileiro vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  48. Fila Brasileiro vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  49. Fila Brasileiro vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  50. Fila Brasileiro vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds