FILA411-USA

A Legacy which Unites

2013-01-02T07:49:00.001-08:00

In 2008 I had the opportunity to meet two "Fila" people who became my friends and with whom I've exchanged emails and learned a lot from, since. I met them both through a very well regarded friend and Fila person, Ines Van Damme. One is Fransisco "Chico" Peltier, presently a well known and very accessible living public personality, part of Fila history. But, back then, I had heard of him only through Fila books and the "O Fila" Boletins, now out of print. His notoriety was due to his whistle blowing about the illegal mixed breeding that happened in the 70's and 80's and the aiding, enabling and covering up the practice by official dog clubs of the time (still in operation), his efforts inspired a group of breeders, headed by the Fila Pioneer Paulo Santo Cruz, to organize and start an independent club called "Club for the Improvement of the Fila Brasileiro" known as CAFIB. At the time of our introduction he had been away from the breed for over a decade. His historically bold and thorough exposé of the misdeeds of breeders and authorities of those years, as well as the subsequent closing of his kennel and his withdrawal from active involvement in the Fila community, imbued him with a well-deserved status of a legend within the micro-cosmos of the Fila Brasileiro rare-breed community. To me, getting to meet Chico was pretty much like meeting a favorite writer, a sports idol or a celebrity.. As it turned out, he is a cool guy who has a great sense of humor, as well.

Estrela Vale do Beraca ( Zulú do Engenho Velho x Aruaná de Bragança)
photo canil Vale do Beraka

Ines also re-introduced me to an American, (once) Fila breeder called Donna Valentine, whom I had personally met for the first time at a Fila Show in Itanhandu, MG, with some other american breeders there at the time as well as her husband, Larry. I remember her being very nice to me and I enjoyed her critique about the dogs participating, including our mutual appreciation of a female called Estrela Vale do Beraka. Around 2004, I had received the very first "O Fila" bound xerox copies from her, through someone else. I was living in California then and had put up the first version of the Fila411 blog, about 9 years ago! Donna was never a huge Fila forum participant and kept a pretty private profile. A few years after that Itanhandu show we had met in, she had made the move from Colorado to Brazil, in the hopes of retiring to a peaceful, bucolic property, surrounded by Wildlife, Filas, cattle, horses, reptiles and insects. Unfortunately, it didn't quite work out that smoothly.

Coincidentally, both Chico and Donna had not been "professional" breeders. They produced 1 or 2 litters and had decided not to pursue the activity, each for their own very relevant reasons, but they remained dedicated to the breed, nonetheless. Both in their manner, also collected and organized a large and eclectic archive of the breed's history, and memorabilia which is a legacy that has the power to unite all people who admire the Fila breed.

...

Ray's Candy Store, NYC, 2008 "Obama Specials"

2008 was also the year that I was in NYC and when Barack Obama got elected (for his first term). The year I worked on 2 music videos in L.A. with Lady Gaga and most significantly, it was the year the big recession hit us. As much as my husband and I were happy about the election results and although I was still working for a hot celebrity, we started experiencing the first effects of the Great Recession; we both had dim prospects of future work. The direct result of that was that I spent a lot of time online, searching for job opportunities and networking.. To make things even more discouraging, It was a very harsh winter.

Among the few things that got me looking forward to another day were my conversations via email with Chico Peltier and Ines. At the time his archival website had just been put together and had recently been launched. He had hired a pro translator to put together some articles for the English language section of his site. A very well known Fila breeder had promised to translate some articles for his site, but had been put off for so long and taking way too much time, delaying the release of the site. So my introduction to Chico was made initially to get those translations finally moving.

Also at that time, Donna and her husband were hit by some very unusual and unexpected circumstances connected to the purchase of her cattle farm from a prominent Brazilian couple, it also involved her and her husband's naturalization in Brazil. The kind of stuff that would have been pretty terrifying for a native Brazilian, I can't even imagine going through what they did, without speaking or reading the language! They needed the help of a person that could translate things, also someone who was familiar with the Brazilian "way". I was concerned for them and made myself available to help. We kept in touch by email and Skype, until her communications started getting hacked later in the following year.

Prize Brahman at the expo 2009 Belo Horizonte

In March of 2009, I was back in Brazil. Donna and I made plans to meet for trip to an agricultural Fair in Belo Horizonte together, later in the day we would go to a lawyer for a consultation about her case, and I would be her interpreter. We learned about her situation in detail, and I realized, it was not going to be easy or quick for her to get justice in her case. Not to mention, they were pretty much on their own. Very few of the people they had known decades ago supported them or offered to be of service. The court case was promising to be long and drawn out as predicted.

Unfortunately, we lost touch over the email hacking and the telephone connection difficulties, but finally after almost a year, I received notice from a friend that they had prevailed with court case and all the appeals. Once again, her email was "hacker free" and we were soon in touch again. Throughout this saga, Chico and I remained corresponding as well, and I must have translated at least 30 articles and blog posts for him!

Fazenda Pedra Negra, Itanhandu, MG

As soon as Donna and I reconnected, I made a visit to their farm which is called Fazenda Pedra Negra [Black Rock Farm], they had finally won their case and they had also gained their Brazilian Residencies!

She picked me up at the Sao Lourenço Rodoviaria with her ranch-hand. She looked splendid and very active. I was also pleasantly surprised that she was speaking and understanding a little Portuguese, she had even hired a private portuguese teacher!

Faz. Pedra Negra, Itanhandu, MG (prop. Donna and Larry Valentine)

The farm is located in an incredible Valley surrounded by hilltops and breathtaking views. The kennel's facilities are like nothing I've ever seen before. 8 to 13 Filas living there currently, but there have been more. Each in their personal runs, having their individual personalities and some have tough health issues. Some are all older dogs now, and since Donna hasn't pursued breeding activities, there aren't any puppies running around.

Dedication and love for the breed not withstanding, the biggest reason why Donna and Larry haven't pursued breeding is their concern about the health issues that plague the breed; a direct result of health clearances not being made a priority in breeding decisions for this breed as a whole. As years go by and their dogs get older, they experience their dog's discouraging hardships of hip and elbow displasia, skin issues and behavioral issues, among others. They have also gradually and increasingly kept away from the Fila "world", its shows and expos of which they were once honored participants. However, they still keep in contact with a handful of people they regard, coincidentally, some of which are also not involved in the Fila world for similar reasons.

Aside from the natural beauty of the location and the facilities, there is also a real Library building in the facility. A large building which houses shelves upon shelves filled with books on wildlife, reptiles, insects, horses and dogs. A very impressive sight! A treasure made up of collectors items and at least two decades worth of Fila collectables, documents and photos. Among them, documentation and photographs of the early Fila days in the USA, early days of Cafib in the USA; trips to kennels in Brazil; historical Cafib Analyses; dog periodicals and magazines, trophies and other relevant Fila-related things.

All admirers and lovers of this breed of dogs, are fortunate to have this dedicated league of people among us as powers of example, they are: those who do historical research based on fact; those who collect authentic historical documents and photographs; those who participate in the organizing and edification of breed clubs and associations for betterment and conservation of the breed; those who research about health, well being and reproduction including the science behind it in order to pave the way for responsible and healthy breeding. The common interest among these minds is in maintaining the legacy of this fantastic Brazilian dog breed, with that comes the responsibility of respect for its integrity. If not for this league of people, we wouldn't have had the information we have access to today, at the click of a mouse or tap of a finger. We might even have not had the dogs to begin with! Nor the possibility of breeding for correct type and temperament based on a historical and physical template, neither a proven system of evaluation and breeding based on a preservationist philosophy and most recently, a DNA databank of the breed (hopefully we may include a thorough investigation of inherited diseases with that).

During my last visit to Fazenda Pedra Negra, I was entrusted with a part of this legacy and the oral history behind it, organized and collected by the Valentines. To me, it is a special privilege and I am excited to share this experience with others through this blog in segments starting with periodicals and magazines. It will include pictures and translated portions in the articles and other items of interest. I've also started a tumbler account for the hundreds of snap shots of dogs in the USA and Brazil!

So let's start off here with periodicals..

© Copyright 2013 Fila411-USA

The Valentine Archives | Magazines & Periodicals

2013-01-02T02:28:00.001-08:00

Caes e Compania | Dogs & Co.

#31 yr III - december 1981 - part I:

Dogs & Co. Year 3, #31, December 1981

I was always curious to know how Americans first got to know and love Fila Brasileiros. For Donna Valentine it was from "seeing them in a Dog World Mag and liking the look".

(D.V.): I inquired about them from the breeders listed, which were Copeland Shavers and Sue Armstrong (Fazenda do Indomito kennel). I preferred Sue and went with her. They both had dogs from Clelia [Kruel], Flint do Camping for Copeland and Febo do Camping for Sue.

We got into Fila in 1988. We even had to get on a waiting list to get our first one!! She wasn't good at all.. She said laughing.

At our first dog show in Kansas, we met Pearl and Frank DeRidder from NY. They had Filas from Brazil and they invited us to a show back East. We went and as Frank sold airplane parts and he was dealing with Francisco Peltier, in Brazil.

That was also when Donna learned about the CAFIB.

(D.V.): Frank invited CAFIB to come to the states for the show and we attended and that is how it all started. I truly believed in the CAFIB theory and still do.

Although from Donna's pragmatic point of view, people get in the way of that.

(D.V.): Hard to say what came to mind when we first saw the difference in the "fila" types. Brenda had Dictator and you know what he looked like. She was at that first CAFIB show. Also, and they told her he was a mixed-bred and advised not to breed him. She, of course, declined on that!! He didn't even attack on the TT. It was a sad thing to watch.

Clelia [Kruel] was not supportive and she was very unfriendly. She was less than pleased.

Clelia' s "interesting comments" about the event are found in the Valentine's Archives in their correspondence. We may publish something on this blog about them soon.

(D.V.): When my friend, Beth Cepil, and Micki Smith and I first came to Brasil in 1995, I absolutely loved it. I love rustic and primitive. I just didn't know how difficult it was to live with primitive. We visited SP, so that was much different from where we are now.

...

on the Cover Ch. Gr. Ch. Ch. Bugre do Kirimaua

An end of the year issue that features an article about the Fila. Curiously, the other feature article is "We will show you how to make a profit by breeding!

The magazines are in near perfect condition and as an added Bonus they came with hand written commentary about the dogs by someone in CAFIB. I am waiting for a confirmation on who this person is, because neither Donna or Sue can recall. Hopefully, someone acquainted can recognize the handwriting and update us on it! Nonetheless, the notes are guidelines about type, conformation and are a commentary on the breeders as well. Also, unfortunately, some of the pictures were cut out. Most likely to illustrate important context written in the notes. The photos seen here are mostly posted in the order on the written notes as well as a few other pages having other fila interest.

(D.V.): The magazines were sent to Sue Armstrong by a man who was one of the first to get on the CAFIB bandwagon, but I have forgotten his name. Those magazines are from the 80's.

hand-written note - front

Transcribed from the Handwritten notes:

Caes e Compania no.31

1)- Cover dog Shows a "stop" too strong, small ears, but not bad at all!

2)- PAGE 23 A typical bastard. He is nothing! A mix of mastiff and others. Even the skin is different

3)- PAGE 24/25 try to cut the ears of the black one. You'll see a "Mastino Napolitano" Can't you see the difference on the muzzles

4)- PAGE 26/27 Camuri do Embirema Fila x Mastiff x Mastino, unfortunately

5)- PAGE 27 Ch Kalu dos Pampas Fila x Dog Alemao (Great Dane) x mastiff

6)- PAGE 28 Cacique and Orixa. I like them both. Orixa is the father of your Guaira.
7)- PAGE 30 All colors on puppies - a good male dog (Boiadeiro) and a Monster (Atus)

hand-written note - back

8)- PAGE 32 Again Camburi and the King of Bastards: Thor

On page 35

THE only pure filas are [marked] with 3 x['s]

Can you see howw the head type of Quizumba do Samor and the bitch from Embirema are the same ?

that is mixs [that is a mixed]

credits & presentation | page 6

In the credits as consultants for the magazine and for the Fila specifically are Eugenio H.P. de Lucena president of the CBKC and Vania Brien from the Clube Paulista do Fila Brasileiro. Very likely they will editorialize to favor their club's interests. So it is no surprise that their associates kennels and dogs will be featured as well as advertised in the magazine.

page 19 - Regulating Breeding

On page 19, there is a section edited by the Clube Paulista do Fila Brasileiro about a proposal to implement Breeding Regulations for the Fila Brasileiro. It suggests regulating a minimum age for males at 18 months and 16 months for females; an evaluation by a technical committee which would issue a temporary Certificate of Approval (CAR) for reproduction, and which would be permanent after an approval of 2 liters by this same committee. [Sound familiar?]. It also would make reproduction announcements and liter verifications by a technical committee mandatory, as well as a mandatory tattoo I.D.. This was intended to be proposed to become official in 1982. I have no information as to whether this was implemented at all in CBKC breeding guidelines or rules.

page 22 & 23 (bottom right is cut out)

Fila Brasileiro - New Direction for a breed in evolution. According to this editorial, the breed had a very rapid and successful assention as the second most bred in the country. However, according to the article: Fila enthusiasts have a challenge to overcome: an ideal type. There wasn't consensus on the ideal Fila type. Nonetheless, they still acknowledged then, the functional Fila as a guardian. According to José Maia (Abaetá da Cachoeira kennel) the Fila Brasileiro would substitute the GSD.

The premise of this article is a grand paradox, taken into consideration that the Commission of the Improvement of the Fila Brasileiro (CAFIB) started out in 1976 by elaborating a system of analysis of phenotype and temperament (page 19 has a watered-down version of CAFIB'S program as a "proposal for 1982"). The outcome of such an effective system is clearly shown in CAFIB's breeding stock today. While the CBKC, even after having modified the breed standard 3 times over the years and completely eliminated the temperament tests, is still plagued with a variety of at least 5 different types.

year III, issue#31, Oct./Nov./Dec., 1981

Starkly juxtaposed to the CBKC..
The CAFIB released its Bulletin having on the cover Pedrinho do Engenho, Paulo Santos Cruz and Jose Gomes - A historical encounter in Varginha. It is quite obvious, having these 2 publications in hand, how the directions are diametrically opposed.

typical list of Approved dogs showing their
numbers and names

Issue #31, of Oct./Nov./Dec., of 1981 the end of year results of the Specialized Show are listed, as well as an editorial about the Grand book of the Fila Brasileiro.

A month prior to the CBKC leaning publication's year end feature about the Fila Brasileiro, the Cafib publishes their bulletin having the article What the analysis of phenotype are for. With an Course on the Structure of the Fila Brasileiro.

As of Dec. 24th, 2012, all the O Fila [The Fila] bulletins became available on the Cafib BR site (http://www.cafibbrasil.com.br) for a fee. Issues #1 and #7 are available for free.

continues on blog post Caes e compania #31, Dec., 1981 part II

Caes e Compania | Dogs & Co. #31 yr III - december 1981 - part II

2012-12-30T07:43:00.000-08:00

“That which can be asserted without evidence, can be dismissed without evidence.”
Christopher Hitchens

In search of a more homogeneous breeding stock, says the subtitle.. The article acknowledges that the breed is too heterogeneous and an ideal defined type has not been achieved. One of the factors they attribute this situation to is the origin of the breed, resulting from the crossing of breeds such as the Bulldog, the Bloodhound and the Mastiff in the farms of Minas Gerais. The Grand book of the Fila Brasileiro by Procopio do Vale, Enio Monte and 43 collaborators advertised in this same issue, promotes that same hypothesis for the origin of the breed, although the authors fail to produce evidence to substantiate the hypothesis.  They also blame the Initial Registry accepted from 1946 until 1974. Claiming it brought in questionable breeding stock from farms and other sources outside of the control of the CBKC, although in 1981 the breed was already at a stage of evolution wherein breeders could work well known bloodlines from a few generations.  The 3rd reason they attribute as contributing for a very heterogeneous breeding stock, was the culture of dog breeding being used to "ready made" standards from foreign breeds, making it difficult for a proper and defined standard for a national breed. The breed standard in effect at the time of this publication was issued in 1976 and according to the article, was put together to define certain obscure aspects prior to the previous standard of 1954. There was unanimity among breeders in the recognition of some improvement in their breeding stock, however, the standard in place gave way to diverse interpretations a fact proven by at least 6 different types of fila which are accepted, they affirm.

pages 24 & 25 - Canil Belo Cruzeiro, SP (top left|Black coat), Canil da Cachoeira, RJ (center | brindle) Canil Curumau, RJ (top right | fawn)

This pie chart on page 25, shows the number of registered filas in Brazil (5.067 filas) in 1980, according to their total by state numbers. Rio de Janeiro holding the 38,1% (1.932 filas) and Sao Paulo with 28.6% (1.451 filas), having the largest amount. It's very curious that Minas Gerais, the state named by them as where the fila originated from only contributed with only 7% (358 filas) of the total registered dogs, just a little over the distant northeastern state of Pernambuco, 6,8% (345). I am curious to know the explanation of how RJ and SP end up with almost 3 times as many dogs as the state that originated the breed..

pages 26 & 27

It appears as if in 1981 they had no clue what a Fila should be like. They believe the standard permits "elasticity" of interpretations and suppose there were "combinations" of characteristics that could be put together and selected. As I read this, I imagine in my mind a lego-like breed that can be constructed into whatever one's ideal can put together! They were so married to this mentality, that the CBKC intended to create a commission for a hearing on judges, breeders and specialized clubs, as well as an excursion around the country to observe individual dogs. They talk about the organization of a symposium to debate the standard and to create breeding guidelines to be put in effect at a national level by this Counsel. The entire page is devoted to justify plans for the debate about the standard for the breed in the following year, with an objective of modifying it. Mainly, because they found pressing reasons to urgently contain the great number of liters being bred and registered from being notably heterogeneous as the trend in breeding results had indicated thus far.
The pages are filled with fila kennel advertisements as well as Great Dane advertisements. Just as in Fashion magazines, wherein the editorial fashion shoots are done with the clothing brands advertised, so are the dogs featured in the editorials are from the kennels in the advertisements.

page 28

The caption on the photo on page 28 says that Females display 10% less aggressiveness when alongside a male. (The source this information is taken from is not indicated). On this page they also discuss the aggressiveness of the Fila. They say many are adamant that the Fila will not let anyone touch them, not even a judge at a show. Judges, on the other hand, believe this is an excuse used to keep judges from examining faults in teeth alignment. Also, a great impediment for the breed to be recognized by the AKC. The article calls the Fila a breed having a "split personality" because it is docile with those at home and hard to handle in face of strangers. Stating that a Fila may bite a visitor; they state the owner of Brafa da Mata Fria, Sergio Lopes, was bit by one of his own dogs. These were just some of the issues with the breed in the 80's as well as prognathism, cow-hocks, a variety of proportions of head and muzzle, all of which would be dealt with in the following year's symposium, having the main objective to seek a less atypical and better Fila.

The 2 graphs on the bottom of page 28 are based on a CBKC bulletin of march, 1981, which showed a progression of number of dogs participating in shows, Championship Titles and Titles for Grand Champion. The difference between number of dogs participating in shows from 1976 to 1981 is of 1.634 dogs. Almost 3 times as many dogs participated in shows in 1981 than in 1976. Even more shocking is the number of registered Filas, which is shown in the next graphic with blue rectangles. In 1976, 1554 Filas were registered (which is quite a lot); in 1979, 5323 Filas were registered. That is a minimum average increase of 1256 dogs per year. This progression is not explained throughout the article.

The Situation of the Fila in the Country.. This portion of the article is a run down of the situation of the breed in different parts of the country. The entire article is fundamentally a pep talk for a reformulation of the standard. Which was the solution they found to "equalize disparities". Finally, there are suggestions drafted on the last page of the article, on page 31.

Some suggestions for a new official standard for the breed

Trends put together by gathering the opinions of the majority of fila breeders for a debate at a symposium in 1982. There were divergent segments one pro standard change and another in favor of keeping the 1976 Standard.

-Evaluation of character and temperament trial to be done on dogs over 12 months outside of the show ring.

- Head better definition for form, top of head and stop, as there was believed to be contradictions in the current (1976) standard. They believed the head should be slightly squared, and that the stop should not be marked seen front on, but the could be marked seen in profile.
- Bite inferior overbite to be discussed because it was believed it could be tolerated. However, superior overbite not permited, or both not accepted but not judged having equal value .
- Ears definition of height of insertion
- Eyes definition
- Topline and rump rump not excessively higher than front -
- Trunk rectangular seen in profile - square figures to be penalized
- Coat Colors definition for acceptable colors preferably - brindle having base coat color chocolate, fawn and greyish, black, golden, and fawn. The brindle having greyish base coat color from crossing with Great Dane (which can be noticed by coat texture) must be penalized, as well as the brindle having white markings on its back. White markings will only be permitted on paws and chest. Some have the opinion there should be genetic research for the black coat color.
- Height and weight stipulate max limits
- DQ's short ears, lightweight build, prance, paws turning out
- Serious Faults short gait
- Faults lack of dewlap

End of Article.

Collaboration credits for this article:

Since the First written Standard, the CBKC has always opted for changing the breed standard. The latest change was made in 2004. Currently, they do no test for temperament or any other functional capacity and they also do not have an approval for reproduction certificate program in place.

1984 CBKC Standard and 1st Fila Standard

Current breed standard compared to the Cafib Standard.

2012-12-29T06:42:00.000-08:00

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An Important Point of View

2012-09-02T20:59:00.000-07:00

****UPDATED****

I came across this article written by Joao Nunes from Canil Alufam on his page on Facebook. I identified so much with it, that I thought it deserved international exposure and recognition, most importantly, for its clarity and reason. I hope it will resonate with like minded Fila breeders and enthusiasts!

Dear friends,
Once again, I wish to express a personal observation:
To me there has always been what I call the Classic CBKC Breeder, ie, individuals that breed, select, and compete in CBKC Shows with dogs having very different characteristics from the Fila Brasileiro bred according to the Paulo Santos Cruz (PSC) Standard for the Fila published in O Fila year I, Issue 8 – July of 1979. So far as there is no mistreatment of animals, that’s perfectly all right with me! They live their lives and I live mine in a friendly and civilized coexistence. But lately, happening in parallel to the increasing acceptance and dissemination of the PSC standard; mainly in Brazil and abroad, I have very frequently been starting to identify a group of breeders that I have come to call Breeders of Hybrids. They argue their position in a very unscientific manner. Here are some of the examples:

1) "It’s just a dispute between clubs".

the lesson learned in the 70's still being repeated today..

Wrong, breeding is done on scientific criteria and therefore needs standards and benchmarks. You might not even be a fee contributing member of a club, but you will need a standard to guide your breeding. Now, in any human institution, troubled individuals will always exist. Those who want to use a social group as a release for their personal hang-ups. Well, for those we may reserve our compassion.

2) "I just like a good Fila."
That might be acceptable if you just want to have a dog for your home. But a breeder who is guided by scientific criteria should know that it is not a matter of "personal liking", one must have a scientific explanation for their choice. For example: Two plus two will always be four, like it or not.

3) "the Fila is a mixed breed anyway"
Wrong. The Fila is a collection of individuals whose somatic characteristics are genetically determined and thus inherently transmitted between them. Therefore, the Fila Brasileiro cannot be mixed, either it is a purebred dog or it is a crossbred dog. When new genes are introduced, whether it be from one of the archetypal breeds that formed the current breed, this new dog will not be a Fila, but rather, a compound of Fila genes and genes of breed X. This is "Tio Chico’s" reasoning when he proposes the adoption new breed qualifications, that is, the breed created by Fila genes and the genes of breed X. (Tio Chico's proposal here)

4) "There are good Filas in both groups."
Wrong, there may be good dogs in both groups, however, the Fila Brasileiro is the one that brings in its genetic baggage, characteristics of the breed that will be passed on to their offspring. "The choice of a Breeding Technique and Adoption of Selective Criteria are crucial for the development of a Breeding Program" (O Fila - Year I, vol.3, 02/1979).

5) "There are also atypical dogs in CAFIB. I do not see anything being done for the breed by either CAFIB or CBKC "
Misusing the word "atypical" is very convenient for the breeder who wishes to remain without taking a formed position, and enjoying the benefits of participating in both groups because, in being so, the dog that is not accepted in one group can be accepted in another on the grounds that this divergence in acceptance would be only a "dispute among clubs." The word "atypical", when used in the sense of anatomical or physiological characteristics uncommon to breed, as in females who get c-sections or animals with little bone mass, always occur in any breeding program; the breeder only needs to reassess its breeding program pairings. However, the atypical in the context of signs of crossbreeding is what the CAFIB has been eliminating from the gene pool, for over thirty years, with the analysis and the progeny tests. Given these findings, I cannot agree with the statement: "The CAFIB does nothing for the breed, also."

6) "Many of CAFIB dog’s ancestors were not CAFIB and then what?"
That is why the analysis are done! (O Fila-year III, vol. 30, 1981 07/08/09).

7) "I think its too much radicalism coming from both groups"
The serious breeder (which does not necessarily mean the successful breeder) must have a scientific reasoning, ie, based on scientific evidence and findings of fact. Therefore, expressions such as "radical", "lack of democracy" and "prejudice toward the black color", do not fit in this discussion. Those issues are very important, but for discussions on human relations!

8) "I know what a Fila is because I breed for many years"
Indeed, managing a kennel and dealing with dogs on a daily basis is certainly an experience that will contribute a lot! However, when you identify the true and original Fila, according to the PSC standard (O Fila - year 1, #8 - 07/1979), you are just as inexperienced as me and many others because you spent years using another evaluation criteria in your breeding program.

I could cite several other interesting thoughts that have been said to me, however, notice that the ultimate goal is to always justify that Hybrid Breeder may take advantage of the criteria used by the CAFIB Fila breeders and of Classic CBKC dog breeders. This attitude destroys any scientific criterion of selection on both sides.

Incidentally, I send my regards to the Classic CBKC breeders that have taken a stand in favor of the differences and made their choice to continue on breeding their type of dog, and also, to my friends in CAFIB, selfless partners in favor of true Fila who teach and help me, so much.

Joao Nunes is the Breeder and owner of Canil Alufam (Alufam kennel), located in Bahia, Brazil – the name of the kennel comes from the African language and religious culture so influential in Brazil and more specifically in Bahia. It denotes Godly protection and direction. Canil Alufam has been breeding according to the Paulo Santos Cruz/Cafib Standard for 20 years. He describes his breeding program as artisanal, but one that implements modern scientific criteria used in modern breeding.

Here is a preview of his practical selection of breeding males.

A Page from the History of the Fila Brasileiro

2012-07-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

by Antonio Carlos Linhares Borges
author of the book Cão Fila Brasileiro Preservação do Original
(can be purchased here)

Original text from the Canil Caramona website, this is a translation of page 7 of the History pages. It's for learning purposes only, without intent of copyright violation and within the qualification of fair use. Some pictures have been added by Fila411-USA to further illustrate the dogs mentioned in the text.

Opala do Caramona

"At the birth of little Sahara’s pups, being the sole survivor of a mating between Opala and Conde das Torres do Rio Bonito, right away the exceptional quality of the liter was observed.

I told to friends from the Clube Mineiro – then being reactivated - to the fact. My friend Paulo Augusto M. Moura chose Tarumã, and my friend Carlos Barreira kept Touro. Olegario Bretas, whom at the time wished to start a kennel under the supervision and advice of expert Paulo Augusto, kept Tupa’. The arrival of these animals to Belo Horizonte could not have been more timely. Touro was requested to rescue traditional breeding programs and commencements of others. 

Touro do Caramona

Olegario Bretas started Sao Jose da Lapa Kennel with Tupa do Caramonã. Afterward, providing an opportunity for a mating between Touro do Caramona and Opala do Caramona, which was done by me. Having then acquired Areta do Carmona (1993), Apoema do Caramona’s sister, which I later used [in my breeding program].   Areta was an exceptional bitch and was covered by Tupa do Caramona, producing the also wonderful Jandaia Sao José da Lapa (1995), acquired by the then young student and friend of ours, Guilherme Trindade Reis who came to found the Canil Fazenda Mundeo.  

Areta do Caramona

At every three generations it is important to introduce new genetic elements, in order to avoid the losses that inbreeding can cause.   By this time (1995), once more I had very few dogs, all of which were blood related, because the only "refreshing" of bloodlines had hitherto been that of Conde das Torres do Rio Bonito and Honda do Engenho, whose daughter I had kept from the mating between Imagem do Engenho, but died after the birth of her 1st litter and I did not know the whereabouts of the puppies because they had been sent to several persons by my friend Jose Luis Cortes, owner of Imagem.

I started a search for new bloodlines to enter the Caramonã bloodlines before inbreeding would cause genetic damage . That's when I remembered the dogs whose lineage I registered under Porto Alegre name. I went in search of these dogs on the farms where I had met them."

A female from Porto Alegre bloodlines – property of [farmer] João Ferreira, Corrego Catule, Jampruca, MG. End of the 80's

(((UPDATED)))

Luma de Porto Alegre and her offspring with Zabele

  Zabele the Caramonan with my son Daniel.  

The Porto Alegre Bloodline

In 1998, a crossing of the female Luma de Porto Alegre (Rambo Porto Alegre x Princesa de Porto Alegre) an authentic cow-dog, I got the Bata do Caramonã, son of Zabelê do Caramonã. I registered him under my kennel name, because at the time Toto (owner of the Porto Alegre farm) had recently died, a fact that caused the near extinction of the Porto Alegre Bloodline.  

The Porto Alegre bloodlines    Female Caramonan X Porto Alegre - notice the pear shaped head, 2007. This is also one of the puppies from Pungirum do Caramonan X Round Arugua.

  These dogs were rustic, many of them bull-dog-like in conformation, bred for decades to work with Nelore cattle and selected for work.   Bata being from 50% pure Caramonã base, having health (hybrid vigor from his bloodlines) and work instincts, came to contribute greatly to the breeding program, especially when I got the female Champagne da FazendaMundeo, a gift of loving friends from the Unifila board, Paulo Augusto, Guilherme Wagner Resende (kennel Acangussu), Geraldo Barbosa and Jerfferson at a time when I had to put Opala and Agata do Caramonã down as a result of leishmaniasis.  

Opala and Agata do Caramonan at a Dog show in Belo Horizonte with the attendant Maurinho

He had a litter with Champagne (named Caiçara by us), which produced Era do Caramonã and Erati do Caramonã which went to stay with Teo Hudson (kennel Aruguá) who still preserves the genetic basis Caramonã x Porto Alegre.  Also Erussu whose image became official seal in Finland, as its beauty. Its owner Mark Nurminem (Higienópolis kennel) sent us a postcard, expressing his satisfaction.

 Erussu do Caramonan and the Era do Caramonan as puppies  

Era do Caramonan

At the moment of recovery of lineage, it is pertinent to mention Champagne and the role that she played.  Champagne came to the Caramonã kennel in 1999 when I was without breeding females. She was therefore a gift from friends who recognized the importance - besides friendship – of my work with the Fila breed.   She was a wonderful puppy, having extreme bone stucture, which led me to choose her among the litter, because it represented one of the items that stood out in the Caramonã bloodline as a special mark.  

Champagne, whom we called Caicara, had some features that I did not exactly identify from Caramonã origins. Fearful that her descendants would inherit very large upper lips (severe defect that we never see in our line), I programmed her matings that could, say, clean up the strange expression on Caramonã.   Champagne’s first crossing was with Bata do Caramonã, a purebred farm Fila crossed with pure Caramonã (Zabelê x Luma de Porto Alegre). 

Soon afterward, in order to rescue the purebred source of the lineage, I discovered where Bright do Caramonã was (Zabelê do Caramonã x Imagen do Engenho). With this cross and being that Bright was already very ill, a single pup was born: Pungirum do Caramonã the indisputable greatest exponent in the Unifila Shows while he lived, an absolute winner of all shows he participated in as best of breed, best head and best of show, for four years.   He possessed formidable temperament. He was able to lie quietly on the runway during the show, or "digg” the earth, defying everyone and everything. Seeing any approximation directly toward him, at once his expression became serious, without issuing even a growl. If challenged, he would become really angry, demonstrating a momentum that reminded me of Adros and Poguaçu.   [The picture above is of] Bright do Caramonan, being rescued on a farm and infested with ticks.   At this point, we began a phase of breeding (from 1990) that generated the breeding dogs we have today, as will be shown.   The following is a sequence of generations of breeding males and females that showcase our bloodline.

 Note the that are passed on, especially from Adros to Poguaçu, from him to Zabelê. In Bright’s generation Jaguara bloodlines enters : 1 - Adros; 2 - Poguaçu 3 - Zabelê 4 - Bright, 5 - Pungirum. Breed & Bloodline are maintained for five generations.
*all photos are copywrited and attributed to Antonio Carlos Linhares Borges

Great Stories of the "O Fila" monthly Bulletins

2012-02-19T09:17:00.002-08:00

The First Bulletin called "O Fila" published by the Commission for the Improvement of the Fila Brasileiro breed was issued in December of 1978, after its creation in March of the same year, in Sao Paulo.

There is so much historical material contained in these bulletins, that it feels like a special treat to read. I consider this collection to be the "big book" of the Fila. Most of the articles were written by Paulo Santos Cruz himself. Much of it contains very thorough real science of those times, which ranges from genetics and anatomy; to "How to's" of kennel construction, complete with an architect's project.

Interspersed with the technical articles about the Fila named "O Curso" [The Course], there are very informative articles about the evaluation of important Filas, results of the shows of the times, names of dogs and owners included and my personal favorites, stories of Filas!

Here are some excerpts from the article "O Fila, Boiadeiro, Onceiro e Amigo"

By Paulo Santos Cruz ["The Fila, The Cattle-driver, the Jaguar hunter and the friend "

The article starts right in with: "Dunga do Parnapuan foi o primeiro canino brasileiro exportado. Foi adquirido pelo príncipe da Baviera, Herzog Albrecht von Bayern."

[Dunga do Parnapuan was the first Brazilian canine to be exported. He was acquired by the Prince of Baviera, Herzog Albrecht von Bayern.] (picture of the prince holding Dunga below)

Mr. Cruz, proceeds to recount the story of how the dog who was born at the shore town where his kennel was located, arrives in his new home in the middle of prussian winter. After having been kept for 3 months inside the prince's Castle to be spared from the brutal cold, the dog was released to the fields during the thaw, at 6 months of age.

(original picture of Fila with Buffalo in "O Fila")

The first thing he sees is a grazing bull, which he then rushes to hold by he nose with his teeth, as he tries to bring it down. The Prince was so impressed and enthusiastic about the event, that he sends Paulo Santos Cruz a cablegram recounting the story in detail.

He explains that Dunga was born at his kennel in Santos [Santos is a Port city near Sao Paulo in Brazil, people that are born and raised there are referred to as "peixeiros", meaning "for the fish"] as well as both his parents, however both his grandparents had come from Minas Gerais, at very very early ages. It baffles Paulo Cruz that Dunga should have such a reaction being that he was so far removed in time and environment from his ancestors, having only his great-grandfather been a cattle-dog.

It is plainly clear how important to Paulo S. Cruz genetics and the inheritance of traits were, being that in every issue of the first bulletins there is mention and technically precise pages of articles about genetics. He asks some questions that are still unanswered today, despite our much more advanced molecular technology:

Genes transmit only somatic and physical characteristics, therefore, which is the vehicle that transmits that which we call instinct? In which molecule, atom or particle does courage get passed on from ascendents to descendants? Where is the figure of the Bull archived in the mind of the Fila? And where is the physical or chemical molecule that starts the gears which signal it's brain that that bull is the one archived and also the file in which how to handle the bull is written.. These questions are unsettling because they show us how genetics is still taking baby steps.

He was such a forward thinker, that I believe that if he were alive today, he'd take into account Neuroscience and Psychology.

He also recounts a story about another Fila of his, used as an extra for a feature film of the Vera Cruz studios called "Sinhá Moça" [a slave term for a young woman, daughter of a master - "young m'am"]. They needed Filas to play the part of dogs to go after runaway slaves, so Paulo S Cruz sends in Aimoré do Parnapuan. Every time they slate the picture, Aimoré wants to "get" the slate person. The director, Tom Payne tells Paulo that one day the dog started to pick up a scent in the air, which made him stiff and his hackles raise. At this point Martinelli, the animal wrangler for the movie, lets Aimoré take him to where the scent is coming from, only to find a jaguar in a cage. He immediately jumps on the cage and startles the jaguar which then cowers to the back of the cage.

(original picture from the "O Fila")

Aimore was also born in Santos, but his parents were from Varginha and Nova Lima, Minas Gerais, and taken to Santos at around 2 months of age. Again Paulo S Cruz, questions about Aimore's onceiro [jaguar hunter] genetic Inheritance..

He tells the stories of how cattle was driven from the Mato Grosso swampland or the plains of Goias to the slaughterhouses of northern Sao Paulo state, a journey that would take weeks. Facing ever present danger, man and dog become brothers by taking on the same jobs and risks . He describes the cur-style in which the dogs and cowboys work in:

To listen to the the call of the man, in a large gesture in extended arm, asks the dogs to circle the stock to push it to move left or right.. After the job is done, the stock is parked and kept by circling around the herd and keeping it stationary. After fires are lit, man and dog eat and sleep together, keeping a close eye on each other and on the stock.

(Filas from Farmland in the south of Minas Gerais)

He finishes this wonderful article with this lovely thought:

..kept in the cells of the pure-bred Fila are the Cattle-dog, the Jaguar-hunter, the friend, the cattle-driver, the fight against the big cat, the protection and guard of the man that knew how to be its master and friend, comrade and brother.

Mastiffs my come from civilized land, but, precisely because of it, their cells did not get that which makes us love the Fila Brasileiro.

Many generations later, the Fila still defies time and odds, by showing us it is still capable of being a cattle dog and a hunter, as well as a guardian. Even with the advances of molecular science and neuro-biology, we still cannot pinpoint how behavior traits get passed on, but the Fila has shown to be capable of adapting well to its original environment.

Abare Boiadeiro do Jatoba and Gameleira Gitana dos Tabayara 2010

Present day Farm Filas in Minas Gerais, Brazil, 2010 (photo by Robson Freitas)

for the full article look up "O Fila" Year II. Number 18, May 1980

(all pictures are linked to their original sites whenever possible and are for didactic puporses only-no intent of copyright violation was intended)

The Fila Brasileiro Breed Manifesto

2011-06-17T04:19:00.000-07:00

manifesto

WE ARE RE-ISSUING THIS MANIFESTO IN FACE OF THE NEED FOR IMMEDIATE ACTION!!

zumba de parnapuan

Preserving the Fila Brasileiro – A Matter of Principals!
by Antonio Carlos Linhares Borges

This manifesto is addressed to all those who somehow can be responsible for breeding the Fila Brasileiro, and for the maintenance of this breed, domestically and abroad, as well as to hobbyists and enthusiasts. What motivates me especially; more than the simple fact of being a Fila breeder, is being a Brazilian with high esteem for it. This was the sentiment that certainly led me to embrace the cause of conserving this genetic heritage, capable of marveling so many around the world for its extraordinary talents.

For over 30 years I have been studying and trying to understand the mysteries of the origin of this dog, of its creation in our national territory, and the characteristics that we understand as being unique, particularly inside the world of show dogs.

My interest in the preservation and knowledge of the Breed, was awaken by the advent of Cafib lead by Santos Cruz, with whom I learned the beginnings of preservation promotion. With the help of friends, and scholars, aficionados, and often simply admirers and owners of farms that have long bred and raised [the Fila] in their families for many years, I traveled thousands of miles through country roads and secondary roads, I personally photographed, filmed and watched those wonderful dogs at work, in action and in their habitat.

I sought out books, teachers of the genetics of dog breeding, of dog sciences, I studied the history, geography, Folk customs of the countryside of Minas Gerais during many late nights - talked and asked questions. I learned something, though much of the mystery still remains, and perhaps will remain forever.

At all times, I never settled for the attempted dilapidation this heritage, and sought by the release of my book "Cao Fila Brasileiro – A Preservacao do Original" [The Fila Brasileiro Dog – Preservation of the Original] to pass along some guidelines for new breeders about what to preserve and what not to allow to sneak into their breeding programs.

Upon finishing the book, I had in Eugenio Henrique de Lucena's testimony; the former president of CBKC - Confederação Brasileira de Cinofilia, evidence that the introduction of other breeds in the Fila breed (cross-breeding) was in fact an undeniable reality: "... Since no one hesitated to introduce the bloodlines of other breeds, for example: searching for greater more size, [with] Great Danes, or mass and bone structure by using the Mastiff, the Neapolitan Mastiff and the St. Bernard. This unqualified practice was directly responsible for the lack of homogeneity found currently within the breed and the object of heavy criticism from foreign officials that visited us” (pag. 7). This is a declaration that we can consider to be an official declaration from the CBKC.

Moving away a little from the show dogs circuit due to personal affairs after the book release, until recently, I thought that the period of the ostentatiously atypical dogs having signs of the criminal crossbreeding that ravaged our breed, would have passed.

Also, recently, I was concerned about finding a way to contribute to the enhancement of the Fila Brasileiro, in order to eliminate small defects of type and select desirable characteristics. A job that led me to find and socialize with friends that I cherish; who I both respect and admiration for their dedication and success in breeding in the Unifila Club.

However, prompted by other combatants against crossbreeding - which I thought exaggerated in their position, or that they could be outdated, very recently - I found myself seized with fright, to receive photos of dogs of this era, so distorted from the original breed type; to point of almost not believing the official dog club (CBKC) would still enable and reward so many aberrations [freaks of nature]. We know that the human hand can alter breeds of their animals, imprinting characteristics at their whim. But we can never overlook that the ethics of preservation should prevail when it comes to historical heritage. It is not up for any agency created to support breeders to break with this ethos. What is fitting, rather, is the responsibility of maintaining this heritage untouched, out of respect for the people who produced it.

The Fila Brasileiro, as well as other national native breeds, does not belong to any [organized] group established for its breeding, but only to its country, its history and its saga of survival alongside the men who came to build this country. It is the duty of these so called official show dog agencies, represented by the CBKC, to respect the breed. The Ministerio da Agricultura [Ministry of Agriculture], should in fact, as it happens in other countries, take over their responsibilities to this heritage that came from the farms in Minas. Unfortunately, it does not and by that, disregards the importance of the cultural aspect that the Fila represents. By failure in doing so and avoiding this responsibility, these entities leave us few options - we breeders and hobbyists – but to express our reprisal about the situation represented in the environment of show dogs. Which is certainly still very little, because we cannot be satisfied only by expressing our discontent. This mistake cannot become truth by virtue of formalization.

We must react vigorously against the squandering of assets, not allowing that grotesque changes in the breed standard become established as true. If it were not a matter of preservation, would the "New Filas" be the result of apathetic improvement, devoid of knowledge about dogs and inadequate for performing of the job for which its proposes was for; of sometimes pachyderm-like dwarf legged deformities or monsters drowning in disfiguring double chins or sometimes tall legged having no support on the ground. Not knowing where to get with the production of these exotic specimens, shockingly different from the original natural and useful ones, so exquisitely designed by nature and from working alongside colonial farmers.

If they are raising exotic animals, then there should be transparency from breeder groups which are accountable to the dog breeding world (FCI) - recognizing them as a novelty, distinguishing them from the original animal and who knows, even by starting to establish a standard by itself. What would not be unprecedented nor absurd; because we have an example in what happened with the Mangalarga equine breed, which suffered similar intervention of experimenter-breeders and were crossbreed with various foreign breeds and came to generate the Mangalarga and the Mangalarga Marchador; separating the exotic from the original (Marchador). Precedents also exist in dog breeding, as is the case of the reaction of the Japanese, which were forced to separate the breed standard into Akita and the American Akita, altered until they became unrecognizable by breeders of origin.

What we cannot do in any way is admit the tower of Babel; the multiplicity of types, as the representation of the breed. Thus, yes, reason to become the laughing stock of the entire show dog world; that is, if they are even wanting to "appear to be" something.

Here I take the liberty of considering myself qualified for the manifestation of indignation, because the way these facts appear, they offend the entire content of knowledge I've acquired over years of study and fieldwork that I conducted. However, to become indignant with such overwhelming and undeniable facts, certainly shall not alter or affect the structures of historically apathetic societies, ommissive and indifferent to events of this nature within the Fila Brasileiro breed.

I propose here, in front of a whole community of FB breeders, all organizations and individuals, unhappy with the continuation of the existing heterogeneity within the breed until the present and following the introduction of other breeds (as stated by the former President of the CBKC Eugênio Henrique Pereira de Lucena); the beginning of a cycle of discussions on what to do / what actions to take in face of this framework.

In my view, it is impossible to live with this situation any longer. Certainly, we who practice the breeding of what may be termed the Original Fila Brasileiro, which we all know well what is. And on the opposite side, a modern fila, still under construction and from what I understand, in search of a standard; perhaps an identity, by part of a group of breeders - a minority that insists on error! We now have a strong community of breeders - preservationists who struggle for the Fila to remain unchanged in its most basic characteristics by preserving its original utility both in mental qualities and in instinctive capacity as well as in physical specifications. I take the liberty of calling the leaders of the clubs that work with the preservation of this original type, to urgently volunteer your areas of operation and call on all your members and breeders with the aim of opening extensive discussions in search of a solution to this situation.

What I propose is more than a reaction, it is the delivery of a document prepared by a whole community of preservationists of the Fila Brasileiro addressed to the governing bodies of dog breeding world, with a proposed solution. I think any proposal to resolve this issue that warrants any legitimacy, has an obligation to start from breeders and that a significant portion of these breeders represent the desire of a majority.

I will make myself available to mediate discussions, seminars and forums in search of drafting a document that can be forwarded to the relevant bodies as a claim made by a preservationist class.

I am sending this manifesto (at the same time as challenging breeders) to all addresses available to me, requesting that all admirers of the Original Fila Brasileiro post this on their sites and send it their friends.

I hope the specialized clubs committed to the cause of preserving this dog breed also may position themselves.

In order show an example about what I mean when I talk about the diversity of the Original Standard, a sequence of photos and comments is attached and which can be compared to the Filas still faithful to the traditional Standard of origin.

Governador Valadares,
January 2010. [printed in English in June 2011]
Antonio Carlos Linhares Borges

The Fila Brasileiro Breed Manifesto by Antonio Carlos Linhares Borges is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License. Based on a work at www.canilcaramonan.com.br.

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To see the proposal made by Chico Peltier click here, for a comprehensive photo-guide click here

Please leave your comments or suggestions.
Join our facebook group !
Join our online Manifesto event and to help mobilize a solution!
Post this Manifesto on your site and send it your friends. Let's get this party started!

Abracadabra! The Smoke & Mirrors Show..

2011-05-15T20:35:00.000-07:00

We do not believe that all our fila brasileiros are excellent or that they are the best, not in any way, we are cognizant that we have dogs of excellent quality, of average quality and also occasionally a few of poor quality, which we seek to remove from procreation. Excerpt from "The Contradictions and Inversion of Values in the fila brasileiro Breed", by CBKC judge Virgilio Orsi How do you justify the 2010 (CBKC) Brazilian National Best in Breed Champion, Mr. Orsi? By the way, the bitch is currently expecting a litter.

It is believed and commented in certain circles that if those who have dogs with mix-bred traits start a program of continuous matings with very typical Filas, indicated by the CAFIB, that the number or pure-bred (or almost pure-bred) dogs would augment in very little time.

Such a notion was countered by Dr. Anibal Felipe da Silva, an animal reproduction expert, with extensive understanding of canine DNA and who heads a pioneer study on the genealogy and DNA of the Fila Brasileiro: "ONLY IF IT WERE supervised by the geneticists from our Army, the Police Force and Federal Universities (preferably the very traditional ones which have blind replicas of material) and based on DNA tests ALONG AT LEAST 32 YEARS (ie, eight generations with a Generational interval of 4 years).

As this is economically unfeasible and even ridiculous to propose, considering the thousands of other priorities that Brazil has to tackle, I say that I find nothing healthy in this proposal, since it will lead to more confusion to many unsuspecting breeders as well as to the less careful experienced ones who insist on not using frequent DNA tests in their breeding programs, if only to prove its genealogy ...

[Breeding] Going only by pedigree is very, very, very, little information."

It is a startling awareness when one considers the amount of years of unregulated mixed-breeding practices. Initially done with the original pure-bred dogs from known breeds, such as the English Mastiff, the Great Dane (more specifically the black great Dane) and the Neapolitan Mastiff. Since March of 2011, breeders in high positions in dog clubs associated to the Brazilian CBKC [which in turn is associated to the FCI - an International Dog Club that issues international pedigrees and holds shows], have been voicing public statements recognizing that this mix-breeding did in fact occur. What they do not take into account, or maybe intentionally detract attention from, are the countless numbers of dogs bred from the initial hybrids and 40 years of subsequent generations of crossings of their mixed-breed off-spring. Done openly with no supervision or orientation from geneticists as well as records of such practices in the official dog Club's books.

Time has come for this new brand of breeders of the Official Dog Club of Brazil, to find themselves in a very tight corner, unsupported and disenfranchised by the club they have always stood by unconditionally.

The CBKC recently has been the target of many breeder's public complaints, ranging from cancellation of National show events to high fees and lack of services. They have also been removed from their position as the government appointed "registrar book keeper" of ALL canine breeds [once held exclusively by the CAFIB for the Fila Brasileiro breed], by the governmental agency known as the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Provisions. Apparently, they have also done a very bad job keeping the government interested in dogs as a viable form of revenue, and worse, they have totally neglected Native Brazilian breeds (among them one of the highest grossing in revenues from registries); some of which have become extinct for lack of support and organization. Adding to that, the inability to produce homogeneous dogs having the behavior characteristics described in the breed's standard, a strikingly noticeable difference between types of dogs can be seen in their specialty shows, led these breeders to purchase dogs from CAFIB members and kennels, in the hopes of producing the next new and improved Fila Brasileiro knock-off.

So, step right up and welcome to the Smoke & Mirrors show of the new found brand of the CBKC.. A show that is put together by the folks that still support the breeding ethics of the likes of Procopio do Valle and his disciple Clelia Kruel in the United States and in which the new brand of "breeder magic" make the illegal and uncontrolled mixed-breeding done by their mentors & years of hostility against the CAFIB, appear or disappear by extending or retracting mirrors amid a confusing burst of smoke up our asses..

Are we Standing in Face of a Paradigm Shift?

2011-04-04T11:10:00.000-07:00

Breaking News: In a heated discussion on a Brazilian Orkut Fila Brasileiro group on the topic about the controversial cross-breeding involving the Fila Brasileiro breed, Fila Brasileiro & Mangalarga horse Breeder, high-school educated, self entitled,"empresario"- admitted:
QUOTE: Eu acredito que devidos a vários fatos, deve ter ocorrido mestiçagens na década de 70... [I believe that because of several facts there must have occured mixed-breeding in the 70's]
END QUOTE
Harrison Pinho - ex canil Arere/curently rebranded Canil & Haras Singular, April 3, 2011

This quote had been copy and pasted many times by group members who recognised this admission as a victory. A few hours later he removed this statement..Oh well..

Have a good trip Harrison and all that are "taking the train" to Minas again..
Thiago Rodrigues Gonçalves, up and coming breeder, Canil Fila Roots, Brasilia

Mr. Pinho aligns himself with a growing number of followers of the CBKC that are "going back to Fila roots" and procuring Filas in the kennels of Minas Gerais - the birthplace of the Fila Brasileiro. Those kennels are consistent participants and prize winners of the, once seen as dissident club's [CAFIB] shows and trials, known to the fancy as "expos". He has also stated publicly that he has acquired new dogs from these kennels to aggregate to his current breeding stock. A move he kicked off by re-branding his kennel as "Singular". Many Fila enthusiasts and supporters of the Cafib dog club view his come-back as opportunistic and having a hidden commercial agenda, others embrace the newcomer to the world of the true-bred Fila. Mr. Pinho revisits breeding dogs, just as the Cafib is at an all time popularity high due to its system's enormous success rates in breeding results.

Mr. Pinho follows in the footsteps of other breeders, such as Mr. Roberto Sena Sene (canil Sena Sene), veteran in the practice and Mr. Wankis Medeiros (Canil Fortal do Fila)who have both implemented the philosophy of improvement of their breeding stock with the genetic traits and qualities of these the product of these once frowned upon kennels. However, also keeping a foot in the CBKC-safe zone, for guaranteed sales.

What they have not done [yet] is taken the full plunge such as the courageous breeder of the Canil Borghetto has. Dr. Carlos Eduardo Goncalves, veterinarian, heir and current administrator of the New Age Borghetto kennel (a very well known name in the USA), has started over by scratching the old and "questionable" breeding stock altogether, replacing it with a brand new crop of very promising dogs from well-known archetypal Brazilian Fila bloodlines, as well as a very progressive mindset and hope in a future, which includes taking practical steps such as: participating in Cafib Analysis of Phenotype and Temperament trails, DNA testing and inclusion in the Fila Brasileiro National Database, as well as proper health screenings.

It has been a [very] slow but steady pace for positive change for the breed, nonetheless, it has been consistent and strong, supported by the foundation of the philosophy of Paulo Santos Cruz and the Cafib system, format and mentality of improvement and betterment of the dog breed. However, it hasn't been a process without consistent aggressive and unfair resistance.

Needless to say, it is a process already in motion, with much more to be revealed in all fronts. This change in attitude, adopted by Dr. Carlos Eduardo Goncalves, will very likely become the new paradigm of successful and wholesome Fila Brasileiro breeding.

Breeding Out the Facts...

2011-02-04T10:26:00.000-08:00

"However, my friends, I must confess that the picture that saddened me the most and brought me the most disgust in all these passionate 37 years was the one of the Fila attached to this message. This is true debauchery of the Fila breed. It is a mockery of a natural feature of the Fila Breed, not found in any other breed and Standard: the OJERIZA. This means: "aversion, dislike, feeling of disgust or revulsion by people or things.

The photo [above] was taken recently at SICALAN (La Sociedad de Intercambio Cinofilia Latinoamericana) and shows the total breakdown in temperament, character, personality and nature of a true Fila Brasileiro. A real Fila that has a typical temper would never let himself be felt up by a judge, who is nothing more than a stranger to him. Look at this picture where this fila meekly allows the judge to put his hand (no gloves) inside its mouth. Friends: within their tool of defense and attack! Forgive me the SICALAN, this Lady and this judge so elegantly dressed, but this photo depicts a depressing and repulsive moment in the History of the Fila.

Chico Peltier, 2011

First CAFIB show in the US since the 90's

2011-01-05T09:52:00.000-08:00

UPDATE: For a look at the CAFIB portion of the show please visit Juan Hernandez's Slideshow !

and here is a little sample of what you will see:

View all

Get your own

*these fotos are copyrighted to Juan Hernandes - unfortunately there is a default copyright attribution to the owner of the album, but Juan has given written permission for use of photos.

Unfortunately, some of the pictures of the "United Cafib Fila Brasileiro" show held in the USA in October of 2010 (linked below), are random pictures of dogs that participated in the Show which had an "all-inclusive" day and a CAFIB day. Cafib conformation judges and reactivity test in the CAFIB format was held on the second day of the event. Certificates of Approval for reproduction were given to all the participants.
http://outrageousfilaweekend.com/filabrasileiro/united-cafib-fila-brasileiro-2010-pictures/
Also, its very important to follow up on the updates about the new show event to be held in 2011, on the blog linked above because as stated by one of the show organizers: "I have no intention of sending out invitations by mail". Otherwise, if you don't care keep up on the lastest internet news, you might find yourself, and your dogs (most importantly) having missed the opportunity all together.
Don't dare complain. You might be met with some fierce ojeriza.
Results of the Show here: http://www.outrageousfilaweekend.com/

83rd National Cafib Exposition - March 14, 2010

2010-03-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

Extreme heat and sudden
thunderstorms didn't hold back an event that brought together dedicated Fila Brasileiro owners, enthusiasts, judges and most importantly, a large number of homogeneous dogs who represented the "Paulo Santos Cruz" Standard in full effect.

The event was well put together and counted with the presence of international breeders. Some of whom even brought dogs from Latin America, as well as those who traveled considerable distances from all parts of Brazil. There were many judges from the official Cafib roster. The event also brought the "father of Cafib", Chico Peltier, who flew in from Rio de Janeiro to participate in the show which can be considered one of the best of recent times.
more here..

Tracking Wild Boar in the Czech Republic

2010-01-15T18:22:00.000-08:00

In the very begining of the year, we received an email from one of our readers which said:

"I receive some very nice pictures. You can see young male called Demon tracking shoted porky. True working dogs are not very often in Czech republic. So I am very happy that I can send you this pictures.
Demon is son of Xingu2 do Itanhandu (Vulcao2 do Ibituruna x Holy do Alto Quatis) and famous czech female Angelika Salve Floresta (Dragon de Los Tres Naranjos x Henna de Los Tres Naranjos).
My best regards
Jerry *"

Demon, sitting next to his prize boar, a natural born young hunting & tracking dog dog from the Ze Skalniho Kaje Kennel [Rock Landscape], made his owners proud by successfully tracking down his second wild boar on the forth day of the New Year. Similar to the Dogo Argentino, the Fila Brasileiro also has the appropriate body structure for boar hunting.

more here..

Top 10 Greatest Fila Brasileiro Events of 2009

2009-12-27T11:15:00.000-08:00

Another year is ending and we've taken inventory of the most important and positive contributions made for the true bred Fila Brasileiro during 2009.
Ladies & Gentlemen, breeders, enthusiasts & owners, here are:

Fila411-USA’s picks of the Top 10 Greatest Fila Brasileiro Events of 2009:

more here..

Feature Profile I

2009-11-07T18:51:00.000-08:00

Ines Van Damme, the Ambassador for the archetypal Fila Brasileiro.

Update: Mrs. Van Damme has taken some time off from her duties as the president of Cafib, and is dedicating full-time attention to a new book! We anxiously await for another production from our
Ambassador! Meanwhile, her site has been reorganized and many articles that were published in the
Cafibe Boletin that she edited can now be accessed in full through her website: Los Tres Naranjos,
by clicking on "articulos" the left-hand side menu bar.
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There are a only handful of individuals that have made consistent and serious contributions of information about the Fila Brasileiro. Amongst these individuals, one woman in particular, Ines Van Damme, stands out as possibly the most thorough and hands-on researcher about the breed, if not the only one. She is a dutch author based in Spain and is currently retired from breeding. Nonetheless, since 1987 when the "FB stepped into her life" she has been continuously investigating, researching, collecting, writing, editing and publishing books and articles.
more here..

Landmark Events in Current Fila History!

2009-10-11T07:31:00.000-07:00

On the 6th of October, Chico Peltier's www.filabrasileirochicopeltier.com.br
celebrated its landmark 20.000 page views event by releasing the article :
"The Black Crossbred Fila: Iron Made of Wood"
by José Souto Maior Borges, PhD, Founder of Cafib Recife & Judge.

On the day of its release, the site received an extra 323 page views, which beats a daily page view record by over 200 and also confirms that the subject is still a hot topic and is current, despite a few opinions to the contrary.

According to Chico Peltier "The good news is that 2 european breeders have vowed to remove their black exemplars from their breeding programs."

For the full article in English click here: page 1, page 2, page 3

It Just Keeps Rolling In!

2009-08-18T09:09:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: It is with sadness, that I report Dan Moore's site is no longer up due to lack of interest from the Fila Community. Notwithstanding, I thank him for all his efforts and for the great information we exchanged, however
briefly. In respect for the great site and it's developer I'll keep this article up.
more here..

NEW! Directly From Chico Peltier

2009-08-15T21:26:00.000-07:00

On Behalf of Chico Peltier:

My Friends,

I just added a new Project to my site (www.filabrasileirochicopeltier.com.br). To access this you may simply visit my website, go to the main menu, click on "Information in English" and select the link "30-6 – 8/03/09 - What do you Prefer?". However, if you already know this site, which has around 700 pages and images, more then 320 photos and recently reached more then 16.000 page views, just go straight to the following link: http://www.filabrasileirochicopeltier.com.br/fila-brasileiro/index.html. It is a super elucidated Project totaling 25 pages and 132 comparative photos.more here..

Ever wonder why some Filas look and act so differently ?

2009-08-02T16:49:00.000-07:00

These two translated versions of the original article will provide the answers:

1-"How to Distinguish a Pure Fila from a Crossbred"

Originally published in "O Fila" - Monthly bulletin of CAFIB, Year 1, no. 1 -December 1978. Written by Paulo Santos Cruz Translated from original Portuguese with notes on Daniel Moore's new CAFIB-USA site.

2 -"How to Differenciate an Un-Mixed Fila from a Crossbred" This is a different translation of the same article above. From author and breeder Ines Van Damme's site.

When looking at pictures of the crossbred dogs from the period in which the original article linked above was written, aided by the illustrations contained in it, the characteristics of the different breeds used in crossbreeding can
easily be pinpointed. Some of the present day "versions" of the Fila Brasileiro breed include a vast morphological variety, as a consequence of continuous breeding of hybrids and their offspring throughout the subsequent years. Nonetheless, the article above is just as useful now as when it was written, and equally as important. It is a useful tool for the new-comer to the breed in the USA.

Examples of Hybrids of Fila X Great Danes (some of these photos are of 1st. generation hybrids):

For in-depth Historical Documentation of the Preservation and Improvement of the Fila Brasileiro, click here.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Cafib Visual Conformation Standard by Daniel Moore

2009-07-20T07:46:00.000-07:00

A visual aid developed by Daniel Moore for a better understanding of the main points of each conformational attribute described in the Cafib Standard, as well as a practical identification and comparison tool for the "living, moving Fila Brasileiro".

to download the pdf file go to http://tinyurl.com/nhsj2w
password: cafibvstandard

Featured Profile Timbo do Aquenta Sol

2009-07-17T13:38:00.001-07:00

Timbo do Aquenta Sol

Reg Cafib CA_ PROV15

"Cabeça padrão da raça, de timbó do Aquenta sol"

Illiano P. Ribeiro - Canil Engenho Velho, Varginha, MG

"Timbo do Aquenta Sol has the template for head of the breed"

Illiano P. Ribeiro- Canil Engenho Velho, Varginha, MG

Timbo do Aquenta Sol and Ronda (from the legendary Jose Gomes) are the parents of Elba do Engenho Velho.

These exemplars are the foundation of near perfect specimens of Fila Brasileiros known to date.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.