Fila Brasileiro

Breed Type: Working
Common nicknames: Brazilian Mastiff
Coat: Smooth
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Loyal, protective, independent, friendly
Life expectancy: 8-11 years
Color & patterns: Black
Hero image
Get ready to samba with the Fila Brasileiro, a gentle giant of a dog who stands up to 29.5 inches at the shoulder. With a big, blocky head and an even bigger heart, the Fila Brasileiro, who is often referred to as the “Brazilian Mastiff,” can seem intimidating, but beneath that muscular exterior lies a sweet pooch ready to be your friend for life. Known for their undying loyalty, these dogs have a “never forget, never forsake” attitude toward their loved ones. Bred in Brazil for tasks like hunting big game and guarding plantations, these dogs have always been known for their tracking ability, courage, and tenacity. Today, they’ve traded hunting for more domestic duties, but they still love a good chase, whether it’s a ball in the park or their own tail. So, if you’re seeking a big, brave, and loyal pup, the Fila Brasileiro could be the breed for you.

Fila Brasileiro characteristics

Learn about about Fila Brasileiro basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other Fila Brasileiro facts.

Average height

24-30 inches (61.0-76.2cm)

Average weight

90-181 pounds (40.8-82.1 kg)

Average lifespan

8-11 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny tinySuper size
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionReady to play
Training aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
How big do Fila Brasileiros get?

Fila Brasileiros are large to giant-sized dogs. They typically weigh 90 to 181 pounds and stand about 24 to 30 inches tall at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller, weighing around 90 to 150 pounds, and stand about 22 to 28 inches tall.

Their muscular build and imposing presence make them formidable watchdogs, and they do best in homes with ample space and a large yard.

When do Fila Brasileiros stop growing?

Fila Brasileiros stop growing by about three years old. They typically reach their full height around 18 months. However, they continue to gain muscle and reach their full weight by about three years of age. 

Switching these dogs to adult food once they’ve reached most of their full height at around 12 months old is advisable. Adult food is less calorically dense and will help ensure they develop at a safe rate, as growing too quickly can cause joint problems.

Do Fila Brasileiros shed?

Yes, Fila Brasileiros shed. They have a short, dense coat that is typically smooth and lies close to the body. Their shedding is moderate, with the most noticeable shedding occurring during seasonal changes, particularly in spring and fall. During these times, they may lose more hair as they adjust to the changing temperatures.

What colors do Fila Brasileiros come in?

Fila Brasileiros come in several colors, including fawn, brindle, and black. The most common color is fawn, which can range from a light cream to a darker tan. Brindle, characterized by a mix of fawn and black stripes, is also fairly common. Black is less common and considered rare in the breed. While these are the primary colors, some Fila Brasileiros may have white markings, particularly on their chest and feet.

Fila Brasileiro temperament

Learn about about the Fila Brasileiro temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Do Fila Brasileiros bark a lot?

No, despite their history as guard dogs, Fila Brasileiros don’t tend to bark a lot. Instead, they tend to be relatively quiet dogs, barking mainly to alert their pet parents of potential threats or when they sense something unusual. 

Their protective nature means they will bark when they feel it’s necessary, but they are more often reserved and typically only bark occasionally. Consistent positive reinforcement training, thorough early socialization, exercise, enrichment, and rest can help prevent or reduce excessive barking behavior as well.

Are Fila Brasileiros good family dogs?

Yes, Fila Brasileiros can be good family dogs in that they are incredibly loyal and protective of their family members, but they are mainly suitable for those experienced and informed in responsibly caring for such a large breed with a deep hunting and guarding history. 

The ideal family for a Fila should have experience with large, independent breeds and be committed to ongoing positive reinforcement training and socialization. They do best in a home with ample space for them to move around, as they are not suited for small apartments. Social families with people and other pets regularly visiting the home aren’t the best fit for this protective breed.

Are Fila Brasileiros easy to train?

No, Fila Brasileiros are not particularly easy to train, primarily because of their strong-willed and independent nature. Bred for guarding and working independently, they tend to think for themselves, which can make training challenging for inexperienced pet parents. 

However, with consistent positive reinforcement and early socialization, they can learn a variety of cues and become well-mannered companions. It’s also worth noting that training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed.

Fila Brasileiros respond best to confident and patient training methods that focus on shaping and rewarding desired behavior. An experienced pet parent who understands their independent streak and protective instincts will have better success in guiding their behavior. Incorporating scent-based games into training sessions is also a great way to maintain their interest in learning.

Are Fila Brasileiros friendly?

Yes, Fila Brasileiros are often quite friendly with their family members and people they trust. However, these big pups are typically wary, suspicious of, and sometimes defensive or territorial around people and pets they don’t know. 

If you hope to raise a Fila Brasileiro who can comfortably and safely navigate public spaces and accept new people and pets into their home, early, consistent, and extremely thorough socialization is crucial. 

Are Fila Brasileiros good with kids?

Yes, Fila Brasileiros can be good with kids, but this may be limited to those in their own families. They are known for their loyalty and protective instincts, often forming strong bonds with children they grow up with. However, they can be wary or defensive around unfamiliar children. 

Especially due to their massive size and guarding history, it’s essential to supervise interactions between Filas and kids, especially those they don’t know, to ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone involved. Early socialization and positive training can help them feel more comfortable around new people, including children.

As with any breed, it is recommended that your child is always supervised when interacting with your dog to keep both the child and dog safe. Teaching children how to properly approach and handle dogs is crucial to ensure positive experiences for both the dog and the child, as is teaching dogs how to interact gently with children.

Are Fila Brasileiros good with cats?

No, most Fila Brasileiors aren’t good with cats unless they were raised alongside them from early puppyhood. They can be prone to guarding resources and have a notably strong prey drive, which can create a dangerous living environment for household cats. 

It is certainly possible for Fila Brasileiros to live peacefully with their feline counterparts, but early socialization is critical. If you have kitties at home and are considering adopting an adult Fila or older puppy, it’s crucial to confirm if the they are friendly with cats before finalizing the adoption.

Fila Brasileiro health

Learn about about the Fila Brasileiro health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Do Fila Brasileiros have a lot of health problems?

No, Fila Brasileiros don’t tend to have a lot of health problems. This breed is fairly hardy, especially considering that health problems are common in giant-sized dogs. With the right care and nutritional support, these massive pups often stay healthy and mobile long into their golden years.

What diseases are Fila Brasileiros prone to?

Fila Brasileiros, like many large breeds, can be prone to some health conditions. Here’s a detailed look at some of the diseases they may face:

  • Hip dysplasia: This genetic condition occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to loose joints and, over time, arthritis. Fila Brasileiros are especially susceptible due to their size. It can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving and is best managed with weight control, regular exercise, and, in some cases, surgery.

  • Elbow dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this is an abnormal development of the elbow joint that leads to arthritis and lameness. Fila Brasileiros may experience pain or discomfort when walking, and treatment can range from medication and physical therapy to surgical intervention, depending on severity.

  • Entropion: This eye condition occurs when the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to irritate the eye. If left untreated, it can lead to infections or ulcers. Filas are more prone to entropion due to the shape of their face, and surgery is often needed to correct it.

  • Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV): Also known as bloat, GDV is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. Large, deep-chested breeds like Fila Brasileiros are at higher risk. Symptoms include a swollen abdomen, restlessness, and attempts to vomit. Emergency surgery is usually required to correct it, and preventive measures, such as feeding smaller meals and avoiding vigorous exercise after eating, can help reduce risk.

  • Hypothyroidism:This condition occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms like weight gain, lethargy, and skin issues. It’s common in large breeds, including Filas, and is usually managed with daily hormone replacement medication and routine monitoring by a vet.

  • Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM): DCM is a heart condition where the heart becomes enlarged and weak, making it harder to pump blood effectively. Fila Brasileiros, being a large breed, are at higher risk. Symptoms include fatigue, difficulty breathing, and coughing. Early detection is important, and treatment typically involves medications to support heart function.

Understanding these potential health issues can help Fila Brasileiro pet parents manage and care for their dog’s long-term well-being through early detection, proper care, and veterinary support.

Are Fila Brasileiros hypoallergenic?

No, Fila Brasileiros are not hypoallergenic and their dander and saliva can contribute to the spread of allergens. 

To minimize dander in your home, routinely groom and occasionally bathe your Fila with hypoallergenic shampoo. Vacuum frequently with a HEPA filter, and use air purifiers to improve air quality. Washing their bedding and designating pet-free zones can also help create a more allergy-friendly environment. Opting for hard flooring instead of carpets can also make cleaning easier and reduce allergen buildup.

Do Fila Brasileiros need grooming?

Yes, Fila Brasileiros need grooming, but the requirements are fairly low-maintenance. A rubber curry brush or a bristle brush works well for their short, dense coat, as these tools can effectively remove loose hair and distribute natural oils. Brushing about once a week helps minimize shedding and keeps their coat healthy and looking its best.

Additionally, Fila Brasileiros are known for their drooling, so it’s a good idea to keep a towel on hand to manage any drool. This will help keep your home clean and make dealing with their slobbery moments easier.

Fila Brasileiro history

Learn about where this Fila Brasileiro came from!

Where are Fila Brasileiros from?

Fila Brasileiros are from Brazil, where they were developed in the 1600s. They were bred as working dogs, primarily for guarding, and tracking and hunting large game. Their strength, agility, and tracking ability also made them versatile on large farms, where they were used in managing cattle and guarding property. These dogs were prized for their loyalty and courage, with a strong protective instinct.

How long do Fila Brasileiros live?

Fila Brasileiros typically live nine to 12 years, which is common for such large breeds. For comparison, Neapolitan Mastiffs live around seven to 10 years, and Boerboels and Rottweilers have similar lifespans of about nine to 11 years.

Regular vet visits, preventative care, a healthy diet, moderate exercise, joint and bone support, and a safe living environment can help your Fila Brasileiro pal live a long and happy life.

Popular Fila Brasileiro mixes

A few common Fila Brasileiro mixes include:

  • Fila Neo (Fila Brasileiro + Neapolitan Mastiff)

  • Fila Boerboel (Fila Brasileiro + Boerboel)

  • Fila Rottweiler (Fila Brasileiro + Rottweiler)

  • Fila Cane Corso (Fila Brasileiro + Cane Corso)

Fila Brasileiro Mixes picture

Find Fila Brasileiro puppies near you

Adopting a Fila Brasileiro

We don't see any Fila Brasileiros available for adoption in your exact location or cities near you, but here are some adorable similar breeds in Columbus, OH.

Photo of Izzabella

Izzabella

English Mastiff

Female, senior

Columbus, OH

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with dogs
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Story
You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. Fill out an Adoption Application HEADLINER: Izzabella aka Izzy. HISTORY: One owner who did not provide basic medical care so Izzy lived many year with out of control skin issues, ear infections, UTI’s, etc. PERSONALITY: Izzy is a sweet, friendly girl that loves meeting new people and welcoming them into the house. She loves attention and affection and will lean in hard for pets and ear scratches. She tends to spend her days snoozing away but when she gets the zoomies she takes them seriously and this girl can move despite her age. She lives peacefully with a 60lb male mixed breed but is reactive when seeing dogs out on a walk. Izzy is a bit fearful of fireworks and thunderstorms and will sometimes get spooked by loud noises. Izzy likes things to happen on her own personal timeline and can be stubborn when they don’t. She will test limits by whining and carrying on (dancing around, stomping her feet, wagging her tail furiously while staring at you) to try to get her way. She’s learning that those things don’t work in our house but it’s hard not to laugh at her antics. She’ll do it to the other dog in the house too when he’s laying in a bed that she wants. She usually gets her way with the dog. FAVORITE ACTIVITIES: Napping, soaking up love and attention, laying in the sun MEDICAL ISSUES: With vet care and a quality diet Izzy’s skin issues and ear infections have cleared up and she is no longer a big itchy mess. She did have a mammary tumor removed while being spayed. She is not currently on any medications. WHAT WOULD BE THE BEST KIND OF HOME: Izzy enjoys hanging out with her people, so a family that spends a lot of time around the house/yard/garden would be great for her. Once integrated with another dog she is very polite and respectful but she definitely needs slow introductions to new dogs. Application Fees, Adoption Donations and Rescue Policy: Please know that 100% of our fees and donations pay for the costs of rescuing dogs. These include but are not limited to pull fees from shelters, veterinary examinations, vaccinations, medications and care, microchips, neuter/spay surgeries, heartworm treatments, behavior evaluations, and foster care, as needed. Important notes before applying. Adopters must have their primary residence in one of the following states: Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and parts of North Carolina. We will not adopt giant breed dogs to renters. Homes with children under 6 years of age will not be approved for adoption. Homes with children should have a fenced yard. Pets currently in the applicant's home must have a history of appropriate veterinary care. Homes with intact dogs will not be approved for adoption. Proof of any of the following exceptions is required: The intact dog is a working member of a law enforcement, or search and rescue/recovery team. The intact dog is registered under the auspices of the American Kennel Club and is actively being shown. A veterinarian has determined the sterilization procedure would harm the intact dog. We believe in Force Free Training Methods and do not approve of methods or devices using pain or force to control the dog, or to deter undesirable behavior. Homes with highly varnished steps must have carpeting, securely fixed stair treads, or a non-skid surface. **We encourage you to remediate potential safety issues while your application is under review, prior to the home visit. For additional information please review our FAQs or contact mastiffstomutts@gmail.com **Mastiffs To Mutts Rescue reserves the right to approve or deny any adoption that occurs through this organization without disclosure. We reserve the right to make exceptions for special circumstances. **PA Kennel License: 05845Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet. November 3, 2024, 10:55 pm
Photo of Konik

Konik

Mastiff Shepherd (Unknown Type)

Male, puppy

Columbus, OH

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with dogs
Story
You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. Fill out an Adoption Application Konik earns his name any time he meets a human; he is a licker. He is also a cuddler and a lap dog. He loves all humans and is great with dogs of all sizes. He is being fostered on a farm with four other dogs ranging from 20 to 130 pounds and does fine with them all. His best friend is a Great Dane who he loves to play chase and keep away with. They will play outside then curl up on the couch together for a good, long nap. Konik was found as a stray by three teenagers. Each boy took him home but was told no by the parents. Thankfully the third boy’s grandma took Konik to the local dog shelter who reached out to find a rescue for him. Konik has the sweetest personality. Just an absolute cuddle bug. He is young, playful, well behaved and eager to please. He does not have a prey drive and doesn’t show any aggression. He has met outside cats and is curious; he will chase but in play not to harm. Konik loves toys, especially chew toys. He’ll play keep away and tug of war, but he also plays quietly by himself. He loves to romp and play outside with his Great Dane friend then nap for a few hours on a couch. He also loves to be around people. Going to the kitchen? He’ll tag along. Going to the bathroom? Well obviously you need company. He is a young male and is not yet neutered. Konik would love a house with a playmate. Another dog in the house would become his best friend and mentor. A child or two would just be a bonus. Konik will potty when on a leash so he does not require a fenced yard, but he does enjoy the freedom to run and play that a fenced yard provides. If in a fenced yard he cannot be left alone. He will climb a fence to get back to his people. Application Fees, Adoption Donations and Rescue Policy: Please know that 100% of our fees and donations pay for the costs of rescuing dogs. These include but are not limited to pull fees from shelters, veterinary examinations, vaccinations, medications and care, microchips, neuter/spay surgeries, heartworm treatments, behavior evaluations, and foster care, as needed. **Puppy Adoption Policy: To ensure proper house training and socialization, puppies will only be adopted to homes where an adult will not be away more than an hour per day, per month of age of the puppy, up to 6 months. Adopters will be required to enroll the puppy into training and provide proof to Mastiffs To Mutts Rescue within 6 months of adopting. Certain large-breed dogs should not be sterilized before 12 - 18 months of age. If you adopt an intact puppy, you will sign an adoption contract agreeing to have the dog sterilized at your expense at the time your veterinarian recommends. Proof of sterilization must be provided to Mastiffs To Mutts Rescue as soon as the procedure is completed. If the puppy is not sterilized as required, Mastiffs To Mutts Rescue reserves the right to claim legal ownership of the dog. Important notes before applying. Adopters must have their primary residence in one of the following states: Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and parts of North Carolina. We will not adopt giant breed dogs to renters. Homes with children under 6 years of age will not be approved for adoption. Homes with children should have a fenced yard. Pets currently in the applicant's home must have a history of appropriate veterinary care. Homes with intact dogs will not be approved for adoption. Proof of any of the following exceptions is required: The intact dog is a working member of a law enforcement, or search and rescue/recovery team. The intact dog is registered under the auspices of the American Kennel Club and is actively being shown. A veterinarian has determined the sterilization procedure would harm the intact dog. We believe in Force Free Training Methods and do not approve of methods or devices using pain or force to control the dog, or to deter undesirable behavior. Homes with highly varnished steps must have carpeting, securely fixed stair treads, or a non-skid surface. **We encourage you to remediate potential safety issues while your application is under review, prior to the home visit. For additional information please review our FAQs or contact mastiffstomutts@gmail.com **Mastiffs To Mutts Rescue reserves the right to approve or deny any adoption that occurs through this organization without disclosure. We reserve the right to make exceptions for special circumstances. **PA Kennel License: 05845Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet. March 5, 2025, 12:45 am
Photo of Carter

Carter

English Mastiff

Female, adult

Columbus, OH

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn
Size
(when grown) X-Large 101 lbs (46 kg) or more
Details
Good with kids
Not good with dogs
Not good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Story
You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. Fill out an Adoption Application HEADLINER: Tina (aka Carter) HISTORY: Owner surrendered to shelter after being locked in a barn stall with other dogs for unknown amount of time. Tina shows signs of physical abuse by previous owner who was an elderly man. PERSONALITY: Tina is the kind, soft and adoring. She is the perfect best friend with the most beautiful eyes and loving gaze. She’s cautious in new situations and can spook with fast movements. Loud voices trigger a fear response in her and she will drop to the floor and try to disappear. If you grab something quickly she will drop her head and squint and brace for impact. Her fear of being hit has diminished to almost nothing at this point as she was very willing to trust us. Tina is quiet as a mouse unless she hears an unusual noise outside, she will alarm bark once or twice making her an excellent guardian. Tina is perfectly house trained, doesn’t need a crate, sits/waits for food and to be leashed and go outside. Her manners are impeccable. She walks perfectly on leash. She greets you with a thumping tail and a big yawn and a sweet little prance. She has the cutest zoomies after she goes potty outside! Because of her past she shows scars on her face from probable dog fights. She is not interested in living with another dog, however she loves puppies. Tina had a litter of 4 and 3 passed away. She was a wonderful caring mom. She just doesn’t want to be forced to interact with another adult dog. She also isn’t a good candidate for cats, she wants to smash them unfortunately. Tina is the most perfect textbook example of a Mastiff. She’s 175lbs of love, adoration, snuggles, drool, and deeply devoted. Her life has been so tragic and harsh but she has been so trusting and loving towards her foster parents. Tina is quietly protective of her person, she has put herself between her foster mom and big scary horse that she wasn’t sure of, gently pushing her person away and sitting in front to keep an eye on the suspicious animal. She hops around joyfully every time we come in her room, play bites so gently and plants her giant head on your lap any chance she gets. This is a snuggle, snack and nap kind of girl. She loves toys and nurses her stuffed toys like a baby. Tina is someone’s once in a lifetime dog. She is the kind of dog you hope for and never forget. The perfect partner and very best friend you could ever have. FAVORITE ACTIVITIES: Snacks, big belly rubs, wallering her favorite person, naps, gnawing bones, hopping like a deer in the yard, being talked to like your teenage BFF (she loves gossip) and gets scratches on the soft spot behind her right ear. MEDICAL ISSUES: none WHAT WOULD BE THE BEST KIND OF HOME: Tina’s new best friend should have a comfy low couch with pillows and lots of time to spend chatting with her. She is very engaged. No other pets please, but this doesn’t make her a mean dog. Honestly who needs another one when Tina is the whole package anyway?! A fenced yard isn’t necessary but she has to be on a leash when outside as she will chase a cat or squirrels. Big kids would be just fine. We have no way to know how she would be with very young children but loud voices and quick movements are scary at first so best not to put her in that position. Mostly we want someone who can see what a perfect gift she is and adore her as much as she will adore that person. Application Fees, Adoption Donations and Rescue Policy: Please know that 100% of our fees and donations pay for the costs of rescuing dogs. These include but are not limited to pull fees from shelters, veterinary examinations, vaccinations, medications and care, microchips, neuter/spay surgeries, heartworm treatments, behavior evaluations, and foster care, as needed. Important notes before applying. Adopters must have their primary residence in one of the following states: Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and parts of North Carolina. We will not adopt giant breed dogs to renters. Homes with children under 6 years of age will not be approved for adoption. Homes with children should have a fenced yard. Pets currently in the applicant's home must have a history of appropriate veterinary care. Homes with intact dogs will not be approved for adoption. Proof of any of the following exceptions is required: The intact dog is a working member of a law enforcement, or search and rescue/recovery team. The intact dog is registered under the auspices of the American Kennel Club and is actively being shown. A veterinarian has determined the sterilization procedure would harm the intact dog. We believe in Force Free Training Methods and do not approve of methods or devices using pain or force to control the dog, or to deter undesirable behavior. Homes with highly varnished steps must have carpeting, securely fixed stair treads, or a non-skid surface. **We encourage you to remediate potential safety issues while your application is under review, prior to the home visit. For additional information please review our FAQs or contact mastiffstomutts@gmail.com **Mastiffs To Mutts Rescue reserves the right to approve or deny any adoption that occurs through this organization without disclosure. We reserve the right to make exceptions for special circumstances. **PA Kennel License: 05845Click here to watch a video of Carter.Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet. March 23, 2025, 8:27 pm
Photo of Moose (Mastiff)

Moose (Mastiff)

Mastiff

Male,

Columbus, OH

Color
Brown/Chocolate - with White
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Good with kids
House-trained
Story
You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. Fill out an Adoption Application HEADLINER: Moose HISTORY: Moose came to us very underweight and with marks showing he was locked in a crate with no padding for most of his life. He never had basic training although his foster is working on it, and he is eager to learn. Despite his rough life, Moose is such a love. He is very patient waiting for his food and takes treats very gently from your hand. He loves people, men and women alike. PERSONALITY: Moose is a silly guy that loves showing you how flexible he is by twisting himself into all types of silly positions whether it be sleeping half on and half off the sofa or fully stretched out on his back with paws up in the air. He is very nimble and can jump up on beds or get in the car easily. He loves car rides. He is very friendly and has had no issues meeting the foster's 6’3” college sons nor friends and neighbors. The vet and vet techs all loved him, and he was such a good boy getting blood drawn and getting vaccines. They referred to him as “a real gem”! Moose is gaining weight and has the softest chocolate fur. And he has not shed at all! Vet says he will most likely be 120lbs when he reaches his ideal weight. Moose has separation anxiety and does not like to be left alone at all. Using a crate is not an option given his past. He wants to be with his person, and he will need a patient adopter to help him overcome his anxiety. FAVORITE ACTIVITIES: Moose loves to chew on toys, go for car rides and take walks. He is getting better on a leash using an easy walk harness but needs continued leash work. Moose has short bursts of energy and then as a typical mastiff, needs a nap. He sleeps at his foster's feet or on the sofa while his foster works from home and is the perfect office companion except for the occasional snoring. MEDICAL ISSUES: Moose is currently being treated for Lyme. He will be neutered and have entropion surgery soon. No ongoing issues. WHAT WOULD BE THE BEST KIND OF HOME: Moose does not do well left alone. He needs a home where there are people home most of the time and are willing to work on his separation anxiety without using a crate. He also needs basic training and someone who has the patience to teach him manners, but he is willing and eager to learn. Moose is very strong and will need continued leash work. He has improved using the easy walker harness in a short period of time. He just needs someone to train him, and he will be the best companion. Given his needs for training, an experienced dog owner would be best. Moose doesn’t know his size or strength and would do best with a family without young children. He would do great with teens. He loves the car and will want to go wherever you go. Moose did live with another dog, but he has not been him with dogs or other animals. It was recommended that Moose not be allowed around chickens. Application Fees, Adoption Donations and Rescue Policy: Please know that 100% of our fees and donations pay for the costs of rescuing dogs. These include but are not limited to pull fees from shelters, veterinary examinations, vaccinations, medications and care, microchips, neuter/spay surgeries, heartworm treatments, behavior evaluations, and foster care, as needed. Important notes before applying. Adopters must have their primary residence in one of the following states: Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and parts of North Carolina. We will not adopt giant breed dogs to renters. Homes with children under 6 years of age will not be approved for adoption. Homes with children should have a fenced yard. Pets currently in the applicant's home must have a history of appropriate veterinary care. Homes with intact dogs will not be approved for adoption. Proof of any of the following exceptions is required: The intact dog is a working member of a law enforcement, or search and rescue/recovery team. The intact dog is registered under the auspices of the American Kennel Club and is actively being shown. A veterinarian has determined the sterilization procedure would harm the intact dog. We believe in Force Free Training Methods and do not approve of methods or devices using pain or force to control the dog, or to deter undesirable behavior. Homes with highly varnished steps must have carpeting, securely fixed stair treads, or a non-skid surface. **We encourage you to remediate potential safety issues while your application is under review, prior to the home visit. For additional information please review our FAQs or contact mastiffstomutts@gmail.com **Mastiffs To Mutts Rescue reserves the right to approve or deny any adoption that occurs through this organization without disclosure. We reserve the right to make exceptions for special circumstances. **PA Kennel License: 05845Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet. March 18, 2025, 9:32 pm
Photo of Diamond

Diamond

Mastiff

Female, puppy

Columbus, OH

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn
Size
(when grown) X-Large 101 lbs (46 kg) or more
Details
Shots are up-to-date
Story
You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. Fill out an Adoption Application Meet our newest foster gem, Diamond! This bejeweled girl lives up to her name and knows how to make the whole place shimmer. Stealing hearts and stealing toys are her favorite hobbies! She's an expert zoomer and napper, too! She loves the company of her furry brothers and sisters, even the cats! Like all mastiffs, she's super smart, loves snuggles, and snores sweetly. She is proud to be learning 'sit'. She keeps her crate clean and is doing fantastic with potty training. Diamond is waiting for a furever family that will put her in the penthouse of their hearts where she belongs! You can see that she polishes up real nice! She's a 3 month old mastiff mix and available now Application Fees, Adoption Donations and Rescue Policy: Please know that 100% of our fees and donations pay for the costs of rescuing dogs. These include but are not limited to pull fees from shelters, veterinary examinations, vaccinations, medications and care, microchips, neuter/spay surgeries, heartworm treatments, behavior evaluations, and foster care, as needed. **Puppy Adoption Policy: To ensure proper house training and socialization, puppies will only be adopted to homes where an adult will not be away more than an hour per day, per month of age of the puppy, up to 6 months. Adopters will be required to enroll the puppy into training and provide proof to Mastiffs To Mutts Rescue within 6 months of adopting. Certain large-breed dogs should not be sterilized before 12 - 18 months of age. If you adopt an intact puppy, you will sign an adoption contract agreeing to have the dog sterilized at your expense at the time your veterinarian recommends. Proof of sterilization must be provided to Mastiffs To Mutts Rescue as soon as the procedure is completed. If the puppy is not sterilized as required, Mastiffs To Mutts Rescue reserves the right to claim legal ownership of the dog. Important notes before applying. Adopters must have their primary residence in one of the following states: Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and parts of North Carolina. We will not adopt giant breed dogs to renters. Homes with children under 6 years of age will not be approved for adoption. Homes with children should have a fenced yard. Pets currently in the applicant's home must have a history of appropriate veterinary care. Homes with intact dogs will not be approved for adoption. Proof of any of the following exceptions is required: The intact dog is a working member of a law enforcement, or search and rescue/recovery team. The intact dog is registered under the auspices of the American Kennel Club and is actively being shown. A veterinarian has determined the sterilization procedure would harm the intact dog. We believe in Force Free Training Methods and do not approve of methods or devices using pain or force to control the dog, or to deter undesirable behavior. Homes with highly varnished steps must have carpeting, securely fixed stair treads, or a non-skid surface. **We encourage you to remediate potential safety issues while your application is under review, prior to the home visit. For additional information please review our FAQs or contact mastiffstomutts@gmail.com **Mastiffs To Mutts Rescue reserves the right to approve or deny any adoption that occurs through this organization without disclosure. We reserve the right to make exceptions for special circumstances. **PA Kennel License: 05845Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet. March 29, 2025, 11:17 am
Photo of Moose

Moose

Neapolitan Mastiff Neapolitan Mastiff

Male, < 1 month

Columbus, OH

Color
Merle
Size
(when grown) X-Large 101 lbs (46 kg) or more
Details
Spayed or Neutered
Story
Meet Moose! ✔️good with kids ✔️ good with dogs ✔️ neutered The most beautiful, stunning, perfectly well behaved gentle giant !! Moose is in doggy daycare and has proven himself a perfect gentleman. He was actually purchased from a breeder as a puppy, and the family has a baby on the way, and do not have the time to commit to moose, which is why they trusted us to find him a wonderful and suitable forever home. He's neutered, UTD on vaccines , microchipped , walks beautifully on leash and eats 8 cups of food a day! https://new.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BCAR/Dog Transport is an additional $185