Brazilian Terrier
Also called Terrier Brasileiro, Fox Paulistinha
From Brazil, where European terrier-type dogs brought home in the 1800s and early 1900s mixed with local farm dogs.12
A friendly guide, not veterinary advice. For anything about your pet's health, ask your vet.
At a glance the quick version
FCI and Wikipedia give about 10 kg without splitting by sex.
Coat and looks how to spot one
short, smooth
A tight, close-lying short coat that feels fine rather than soft, with even finer hair on the head, ears and underside. The body is lean and square with semi-erect folded ears.12
Personality what they are like
Lively, watchful and always busy. It is warm and gentle with the people it knows and tends to keep a polite distance from strangers, which makes it a keen little watchdog.1
Daily activity how busy a day looks
An energetic terrier bred to hunt small game on farms, so it does best with daily walks plus play or scent games that let it use its energy.1
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
The short, close coat needs little more than an occasional brush or wipe-down to stay tidy.12
Company who they like around
Bonds closely with its family and enjoys being involved in daily life; early, friendly introductions to new people help it relax around visitors.1
The story where it all began
Brazilians returning from studies in Europe in the 19th and early 20th centuries brought small terriers with them. On Brazilian farms these dogs mixed with local dogs and settled into a distinct type that later moved into towns and cities with their owners. Some writers also point to Iberian ratting terriers as part of the background.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
- 1
It is one of only two native Brazilian breeds recognised internationally.2
- 2
At home in Brazil it is often called the Fox Paulistinha.2
- 3
Its FCI standard lists three jobs for it: small game hunter, guard dog and companion.1
- 4
Tan markings above the eyes, on the sides of the muzzle and on the ears are a required part of its look.1
Recognised by the official bits
- FCI
- Standard no. 341, Group 3 (Terriers), Section 1 Large and medium-sized Terriers; official valid standard dated 14.05.2022, country of origin Brazil.1
- CBKC (Confederação Brasileira de Cinofilia)
- Recognised by the Brazilian national kennel club.2
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Brazilian Terrier. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
- Brushingevery week
- Bathevery 8 weeks
- Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
- Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
- Ear checkevery 2 weeks
- Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
- ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
- Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
- Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Brazilian Terrier, and at what times?
Feed your Brazilian Terrier at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Regular meal times help digestion, but exact times are flexible. Follow the food label and your vet's advice for amounts.3
What should a Brazilian Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality dog food suited to its life stage is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always check with your vet for specific dietary needs.4
How often should I bathe a Brazilian Terrier?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and the ASPCA recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo.5 Furry Diary plan
How often does a Brazilian Terrier need brushing?
A weekly brush keeps the short coat tidy and removes loose hair. Furry Diary's plan suggests brushing every 7 days. It's a quick, easy routine that also strengthens your bond.5 Furry Diary plan
How do I trim a Brazilian Terrier's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every three weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.5 Furry Diary plan
How much exercise does a Brazilian Terrier need?
This energetic terrier needs daily walks plus play or scent games to use its energy. Furry Diary's plan recommends daily exercise. A tired dog is a happy dog!1 Furry Diary plan
How do I look after a Brazilian Terrier's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily if possible, at least two to three times a week with dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks for redness or odor, and clean gently with a vet-recommended solution. Never insert anything into the ear canal.5 Furry Diary plan
How long does a Brazilian Terrier live?
Lifespan varies by individual, but many small terriers live 12 to 15 years. For specific information about your dog, ask your breeder or vet.
Is a Brazilian Terrier good with children and other pets?
The Brazilian Terrier is warm and gentle with its family, so it can be good with children if raised together. Early, friendly introductions help it get along with other pets. Always supervise interactions.1
Can a Brazilian Terrier be left alone?
This breed bonds closely with its family and prefers to be involved in daily life. It may not do well left alone for long hours. Provide toys and a routine, and consider a dog walker if needed.1
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Where this comes from
Every breed page shows where each fact comes from. If we got something wrong, sorry, we are pet people, not a science magazine. Tell us at [email protected] and we will fix it.
- FCI Standard No. 341 Terrier Brasileiro fci.beused for recognition, size, coat, colours, temperament, history
- Brazilian Terrier (Wikipedia) en.wikipedia.orgused for names, recognition, history, facts
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
- ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- RSPCA: What to feed your rabbit rspca.org.ukused for owner questions
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.