SÃO PAULO — For years, Brazil’s street dogs, often categorized as “undesirable” and easily overlooked, are finally gaining recognition and affection. The “vira-lata caramelo,” which translates to “caramel stray,” is basking in newfound popularity through various forms of media including memes, videos, and upcoming films, as well as representations in Carnival parades and proposed legislation aimed at celebrating these dogs as icons of Brazilian culture. Their ascent in popularity is a testament to Brazil’s spirit of resilience in a diverse nation of 213 million known for facing challenges with optimism. This shift in perception stands in stark contrast to the previously held notion of a “mongrel complex.”
The love for caramelos gained momentum on social media starting in 2019. Users started posting the humorous slogan, “This represents Brazil more than soccer or samba,” accompanied by images of these dogs in various scenarios. Accounts dedicated to their antics flourished online, showcasing moments like a caramelo intruding on a dance performance or playing dead during CPR training. Additionally, products shaped like these dogs made their way into online marketplaces. A petition advocating to replace the macaw on Brazil’s 10-reais bill with a caramelo garnered 50,000 signatures, highlighting the breed’s growing status. A subsequent campaign to feature caramelos on the 200-reais note amassed even greater support.
Supporters often describe the caramelo’s charm as rooted in their survival instincts, as evidenced by heartwarming encounters. In one instance, a stray caramelo led Khelson Silva and his friend three blocks directly to his apartment building, clearly choosing them as his new family. “He made his decision, and he knew where we lived,” Silva recounted about the dog later named Persistent José.
The term “mongrel complex,” coined by writer Nelson Rodrigues after Brazil’s disheartening World Cup performance in 1950, reflects a historical perspective of inferiority that many now reject in favor of embracing the country’s multicultural heritage. Tina Castro, an English teacher from Rio de Janeiro, articulated this sentiment by linking the ownership of a caramelo to the appreciation of Brazil’s eclectic identity, stating, “It comes from a marginal place, like Brazil. It has a history of survival and marginalization.”
The popularity of the caramelo has spread beyond borders, with international figures becoming part of the fascination. Bruno Mars shared a farewell video featuring a caramelo after his trip to Brazil, and the British mission in Brazil recently named their digital mascot “Lord Caramelo” after a public vote.
The Netflix film “Caramelo,” with a budget part of a significant investment in Brazilian productions, is set to be a groundbreaking project focusing on a dog as the main star. Netflix noted its cultural significance, asserting it could only portray the caramelo, a symbol of national pride. Meanwhile, the São Clemente samba school in Rio is also getting in on the action, crafting caramelo-themed costumes for their upcoming Carnival parade that underscores themes of animal neglect and abandonment.
In addition to these celebrations, history also underscores the caramelo’s importance in Brazilian culture. The Rio military police museum highlights a taxidermied caramelo, named Bruto, who served alongside officers and became a local legend for his loyalty and bravery during wartime.
Despite the caramelo’s rise to fame, many still struggle to find homes. Animal shelters report that these beloved dogs often get overlooked in favor of smaller, fluffier breeds. The Indefesos shelter in Rio has a large population of caramelos, yet puppies coming in are frequently the last to be adopted. Shelter director Rosana Guerra expressed concern about the bleak future for these dogs, lamenting the tendency for caramelos to be passed over during adoption drives. “They end up staying, waiting for adoption that never comes,” she shared.
In the Netflix film, a caramelo plays a pivotal role in helping a busy chef discover meaning in life. The film aims to connect with Brazilian audiences and encourages action in support of stray dogs. After filming completed, several formerly homeless dogs from the production found loving homes with the crew members. “They change our lives,” said director Diego Freitas, who was inspired by his own caramelo during the filmmaking process. The hope is that this cinematic endeavor will ignite a deeper affection and drive support for these resilient dogs.