Anyway, one of the things that is really appealing to me about hounds is that our working relationship is based on mutual respect. I take care of Strider, so he takes care of me. I don't ask him to do anything retarded and nonsensical such as sit 47 times in a row, and he doesn't disrespect my leadership and follows my requests in a timely manner. I suspect because normally I don't ask him to do something that isn't important unless hotdogs are involved, he gets the idea that when I do tell him to do something it is significant and he should listen. Is working with a fila like this?
Very much . . . only more so . . . and you don't need the hot dogs
Try to bribe your Fila and it will just take the goodies and go on its merry way. The only *hold* you have over your Fila is mutual love and respect.
Lastly, what kind of person works well with a fila? This is my biggest worry. I am 120 lbs and really slight. Also very softspoken. I know some breeds are harder and generally respond (listen?) better when people speak to them in a deeper, more authoritative tone. That isn't me, and if that's what a fila needs from someone to be able to see them as a respected pack elder, it probably wouldn't be a good fit.
That deep, authoritative business it total crap to the Fila. They typically PREFER women and soft voices. And calm. They are so completely connected to you that you will find, as time goes on, the need for verbal communication becomes less and less; they become tuned to your every mood.
And face it, a 100 pound woman is at no real disadvantage compared to a 250 pound man, because, when it comes right down to it, neither one of you can hold a Fila by physical strength. It's all in the heart.
Oh, and think of a Fila not so much as a Guardian Breed, but as an all purpose breed. True, there is no guardian like a Fila, but there is also no hunter like a Fila (jaguar, anyone?); they are trackers, they are herding dogs, they are the ultimate family dog, and beautifully efficient bed warmers. Loving, playful, humorous, devoted and connected beyond anything you've ever experienced.
But, if you aren't ready to give yourself heart and soul to the love of a Fila, don't get one.