Rather than attacking its prey, the Fila traps it and waits for the hunter to arrive. In this case, the Fila would have as possible ascendents the Spanish Mastiff, Cão de Castro Laboreiro, Cão de Gado Transmontano, Rafeiro do Alentejo, Cão Fila de São Miguel, etc., or the predecessor of these breeds (the Iberian Alaunt), possibly combined with scent hounds.The Fila Brasileiro were bred and raised primarily on large plantations and cattle farms where they originated. In addition to cattle, jaguars, and other animals, these dogs were taught to chase down runaway slaves.