Brazilian Tracker

Brazilian Tracker

The Rastreador Brasileiro, or Brazilian Tracker, is a large scent hound developed in Brazil, known for its affectionate yet independent personality. Featuring a short, smooth coat that requires simple grooming, this energetic breed requires consistent training and significant daily exercise. Prospective owners should also consider key breed-specific health and costs before bringing one home.

Breed Group

Hound Dogs

Country of Origin

Brazil

Breed Size

Large

AKC Recognition

No

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 2019

Family dog

Above Average

6 / 10

Good with kids

Good

7 / 10

First-time owner

Not Recommended

1 / 10

Apartment dog

Below Average

4 / 10

Yard need

High

3 / 10

Can be left alone

Below Average

4 / 10

What Do Owners Want to Know?

Are Brazilian Tracker good family dogs?

The Brazilian Tracker is a loyal and affectionate companion that can integrate well into active families who can meet its high exercise needs. However, its high prey drive and vocal nature make it better suited for experienced handlers and homes without small pets. Although generally docile with their owners, their intense energy levels require consistent training and supervision around children.

Family dog: 6 / 10

Are Brazilian Tracker good with kids?

Brazilian Trackers are generally docile and affectionate, but the breed is not recommended for homes with small children or the frail elderly due to its high energy and hunting nature. Supervised play is recommended to ensure they do not accidentally knock over smaller children during exuberant play, and early socialization is key to fostering a calm temperament.

Good with kids: 7 / 10

Are Brazilian Tracker good for first-time owners?

Brazilian Trackers are generally better suited for experienced handlers rather than first-time owners due to their independent nature and high exercise requirements. While they are loyal and affectionate with their families, their vocal baying and strong prey drive can be challenging for novices to manage. Success with this rare breed requires a significant commitment to consistent training and providing ample daily physical activity.

First-time owner: 1 / 10

Are Brazilian Tracker good apartment dogs?

Brazilian Trackers are generally not recommended for apartment living due to their large size, high energy levels, and loud, characteristic baying. These athletic scent hounds require significant daily exercise and open space to thrive, which can be difficult to manage in a confined urban environment.

Apartment dog: 4 / 10

Do Brazilian Tracker need a yard?

A yard is highly recommended for the Brazilian Tracker, as they are active and persistent hounds that need plenty of space to run, sniff, and burn off their high energy. While they can adapt to life with active owners, a house with a garden is ideal to accommodate their natural hunting instincts and provide the physical and mental stimulation necessary to keep this large, athletic breed balanced.

Yard need: 3 / 10

Can Brazilian Tracker be left alone?

Brazilian Trackers are loyal, pack-oriented scent hounds that thrive on companionship and may become restless if left alone for long periods. While they possess an independent hunting spirit, prolonged isolation can lead to boredom and vocal behaviors like baying. They are best suited for households where they can remain active and engaged with their families or other canine companions.

Can be left alone: 4 / 10

Are Brazilian Tracker good with cats?

Brazilian Trackers have a high prey drive and a strong instinct to chase smaller animals, making them generally less suitable for homes with cats. While they may coexist if raised together from a young age with consistent socialization, they are best suited for households without small pets due to their hunting heritage.

Good with cats: 3 / 10

Are Brazilian Tracker aggressive?

Brazilian Trackers are not naturally aggressive; they are generally docile, loyal, and affectionate companions toward their families. While they possess a high prey drive and an independent nature that requires consistent training, they are typically even-tempered. Early socialization is key to ensuring their alert instincts remain manageable and that they stay well-behaved around people and other animals.

Aggression tendency: 4 / 10

Are Brazilian Tracker high-energy dogs?

Brazilian Trackers are energetic and hardworking scenthounds that require significant daily physical exercise and mental stimulation to remain balanced. Originally bred for tracking jaguars, they possess high endurance and a strong work drive that must be channeled through activities like long walks, scent work, or tracking games. Without an outlet for their energy, these intelligent and athletic dogs may become bored and engage in unwanted or destructive behaviors.

Energy level: 7 / 10

How much exercise does a Brazilian Tracker need?

The Brazilian Tracker is a persistent and hardworking hound that requires at least 60 to 90 minutes of daily exercise to satisfy its high energy and stamina. Ideally, this should include long walks, hiking, or tracking activities that engage its legendary scent-hunting instincts. Without regular physical activity and mental stimulation through search tasks or nose work, this rare breed may become restless and develop unwanted vocal or destructive behaviors.

Exercise need: 7 / 10

Can Brazilian Tracker live in hot weather?

Brazilian Trackers are well-suited for hot weather, having been developed in the tropical climate of Brazil for hunting. Their short, smooth coat helps them manage heat effectively during outdoor activities. Owners should still provide ample shade and fresh water during peak temperatures to ensure their comfort and safety.

Hot weather tolerance: 8 / 10

Can Brazilian Tracker live in cold weather?

The Brazilian Tracker has a moderate tolerance for cold weather thanks to its hardy, athletic nature, but its short, single coat provides minimal insulation against freezing temperatures. While they can handle brisk outings, they should not be left outdoors in extreme cold for long periods. Owners in colder climates should provide a warm coat for winter walks and monitor for signs of shivering to ensure their dog stays safe and comfortable.

Cold weather tolerance: 7 / 10

Are Brazilian Tracker banned in apartments or rentals?

Brazilian Trackers are often restricted in apartments due to their large size, high energy levels, and loud, characteristic baying. These athletic scent hounds require significant space and are typically not suited for close-quarters living.

Rental restriction risk: 4 / 10

Vet Insights

Brazilian Trackers are loyal and athletic hounds, but their working heritage requires specific veterinary attention. As a veterinarian, I prioritize monitoring for hip dysplasia and gastric torsion (bloat), which are common risks for large, active breeds. Their long, pendant ears also necessitate regular cleaning to prevent chronic ear infections. Owners should be vigilant about parasite prevention, particularly for tick-borne illnesses and New World screwworm, which are prevalent in their native regions. I strongly recommend providing ample mental stimulation and consistent training to manage their independent nature and high prey drive.

Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
VeterinarianResearcherDog breed specialist
Verified