Brazilian Terrier

Also called Terrier Brasileiro, Fox Paulistinha

Lively, watchful and always busy.

Size	Small
Weight	10 kg (22 lb)1 2
Height	33 to 40 cm (13 to 16 in)males 35 to 40 cm, females 33 to 38 cm1 2
Coat	Short, smooth
Origin	Brazil, where European terrier-type dogs brought home in the 1800s and early 1900s mixed with local farm dogs.1 2
Group	Terriers (FCI group 3)

Recognised breedShort profile

alert and quick

affectionate with its own people

versatile little farm and hunting dog

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

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.1 2

Colourswhite with black and tan markingswhite with blue and tan markingswhite with brown and tan markingswhite with isabella and tan markings1 2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Brazilian Terrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

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

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.1 2

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.1 2

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

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is called 'Terrier Brasileiro' in Portuguese and 'Fox Paulistinha' as a nickname, referencing its terrier type and its popularity in the state of São Paulo (Paulistinha means 'little one from São Paulo').3

Name ideas for your new friend

ZecaBentoPipocaTicoFofaChicoMandiocaSambaPitangaLunaTobiasBrisa

A day in the life told by a Brazilian Terrier

I wake up and stretch my paws, another day of adventures! I patrol the yard, sniff every corner, and give a sharp bark at the mailman. Then I chase a leaf blown by the wind, my favorite game. After a good run, I curl up beside my human for a ear scratch. In the afternoon, we play hide-and-seek with a squeaky toy. I always win. Now I watch from the window, guarding my home with a wagging tail. Life is busy and perfect.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

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

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Blueberry Oat Biscuits

These simple, three-ingredient biscuits are full of fibre and antioxidants from blueberries, and are easy to make in small sizes for toy and small dogs.

You need

100g oats
1 banana (mashed)
40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
a little water (as needed)

How

Preheat your oven to 175°C.
Mix the mashed banana, oats and chopped blueberries together in a bowl.
Add splashes of water a little at a time, stirring until the mixture comes together in one large ball.
Roll the mixture out on a lightly floured surface to about 1–2 cm thick.
Use a small cookie cutter or a knife to cut out shapes suitable for a small dog.
Place the shapes on a lined baking tray and bake for 15–20 minutes until slightly browned.
Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Give one small biscuit per day for a toy or small dog, and reduce their main meal accordingly.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

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.4

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.5

How often should I bathe a Brazilian Terrier?

Pet Wiki'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.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Brazilian Terrier need brushing?

A weekly brush keeps the short coat tidy and removes loose hair. Pet Wiki's plan suggests brushing every 7 days. It's a quick, easy routine that also strengthens your bond.6 Pet Wiki 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.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Brazilian Terrier need?

This energetic terrier needs daily walks plus play or scent games to use its energy. Pet Wiki's plan recommends daily exercise. A tired dog is a happy dog!1 Pet Wiki 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.6 Pet Wiki 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 Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.