Brazilian Terrier

Genetic Predispositions and Health

Brazilian Terriers can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, severe skeletal conditions, renal disorders such as hyperuricosuria, and progressive rod-cone degeneration. Specific hereditary conditions for which this breed should be tested include mucopolysaccharidosis VII (Brazilian Terrier Type, a life-threatening skeletal condition), multifocal retinopathy 1, and von Willebrand Disease. As for all breeds, genetic screening is recommended to assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.

Personality and Behavior

The Brazilian Terrier is an energetic, alert, and intelligent breed. Known for their agility, they are excellent hunters and have a strong prey drive. They are friendly and enjoy the company of their human family but can be reserved with strangers. As with other terrier breeds, they can be somewhat stubborn and independent. They require plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and behavioral issues. They typically get along well with other dogs in the household, although their strong prey drive may make them unsuitable for homes with small pets. Their intelligence and alertness make them good watchdogs.

In terms of training, Brazilian Terriers are very intelligent, which can be both a benefit and a challenge. They can learn commands quickly, but their independent nature may lead them to be somewhat stubborn. They respond best to positive reinforcement training methods.

Given their history as working dogs, they require a good deal of exercise and would benefit from a home with a yard where they can run and play. Despite their energy, they can also adapt well to apartment living provided they receive enough daily exercise.

Fun Facts

The high intelligence and trainability of the Brazilian Terrier contributed to their long time use as a circus dog.

According to the AKC, these dogs are now more regularly used for canine sports such as agility training, canicross, barn hunt, earthdog, and more.

Brazilian Terriers have graced postage stamps in Brazil.

References

https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/brazilian-terrier/ https://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/341g03-en.pdf

https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/breed/brazilian-terrier?page=1

https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/panel/brazilian-terrier-health-panel

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22815736/

https://www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/tests/details/40/?breed=4

https://www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/breeds/14/

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/08/120806085145.htm https://www.wisdompanel.com/en-us/dog-breeds/terrier-brazileiro