SAO PAULO — For many years, they have been scavenging for sustenance on the streets of Brazil—often ignored and unwanted. However, the caramel-colored mixed-breed dogs, known locally as “vira-lata caramelo” (which translates to caramel trashcan-tipper), are now experiencing a surge in popularity. Celebrated in memes, videos, an upcoming Netflix film, and even Carnival parades, the caramelo is also the subject of a draft legislation aimed at recognizing its significance in Brazilian culture. This newfound appreciation for these unique dogs reflects both resilience and the spirit of the nation, which is home to 213 million people known for their ability to endure hardships with optimism.
In October, a scene from the Netflix film “Caramelo” showcased a light-brown puppy watching well-to-do families stroll by with their sleek purebred pets, such as golden retrievers and Dobermans. When the cue was given, a delivery cyclist passed by, prompting the inquisitive mutt to run after him, drawn by the enticing scent of pizza. “The caramelo has become a major symbol of Brazil, representing the people,” said Diego Freitas, the film’s director and co-writer. “Netflix recognized the ongoing cultural trend. The caramelo embodies the spirit of our time.”
The fascination with caramelo dogs took off on social media platforms around 2019, with humorous claims stating that they embody Brazil more than soccer or samba. Various accounts began sharing amusing clips of these dogs, including one that interrupted a dance performance and another that pretended to be unresponsive during a CPR training demo. Online shops even started selling throw pillows shaped like these beloved mutts. A petition in 2019 garnered 50,000 signatures, calling for the caramelo to replace the macaw on the 10-reais currency note. “The caramelo is a beloved landmark of the Brazilian people, cherished across the nation and deserving recognition on our currency,” the petition stated. The following year, an additional petition sought to feature the medium-sized dog on the 200-reais note and received an even larger response.
While many point to the kind nature of the caramelo as a draw, others highlight their cleverness and survivability. Take the example of a caramelo in João Pessoa, who, last year, led a man named Khelson Silva and his friend back to their apartment building after befriending them. “This dog chose us; he clearly understood where we lived,” Silva recounted about the caramelo, now affectionately named Persistent José.
The notion of a “mongrel complex” was popularized by writer Nelson Rodrigues in the wake of Brazil’s disheartening World Cup defeat in 1950. His term highlighted what he perceived as a national inferiority complex. Today, however, many citizens embrace Brazil’s rich tapestry of influences — immigrants, enslaved people, and indigenous communities — as a point of national pride. Tina Castro, an English instructor in Rio de Janeiro, connects the affection for caramelo dogs to the embracing of Brazil’s complex identity. “Like our country, they come from marginalized backgrounds, embodying survival and endurance,” noted Castro.
Expressions of caramelo appreciation have gone beyond Brazil’s borders. Musician Bruno Mars, during his tour in November, became part of the phenomenon, posing with a caramelo in a viral farewell video. Meanwhile, staff at the British mission to Brazil playfully named their digital mascot, a Welsh Corgi, “Lord Caramelo.”
On the cinematic front, the budget for Netflix’s “Caramelo,” part of a larger investment strategy amounting to 1 billion reais ($164 million) from 2023-2024 for Brazilian productions, aims to attract viewers in one of the largest streaming markets globally. Although no release date has been set, the film promises to make an impactful statement. “This movie is a significant gamble for Netflix, being a major production,” noted a representative from Netflix Brasil. “It’s the first Brazilian film with a dog as the leading character, rightfully starring the caramelo, which has become a national icon.”
Organizations like the Sao Clemente samba school are also embracing the caramelo as a cultural symbol. Their workshop recently crafted numerous towering caramelo costumes made from bright yellow fabric for the 2025 Carnival parade, focusing on themes of animal abandonment and welfare. “Our caramelo is a captivating little character, always endearing and humorous,” said workshop director Roberto Gomes.
However, amidst the rising fame of caramelo dogs, the reality remains that many of them still reside in shelters, awaiting adoption. Volunteers at various shelters report that people often overlook caramelos in favor of smaller or more traditionally appealing dogs. One shelter in Rio, Indefesos, has a significant population of caramelos, but whenever they receive a litter of these mixed-breeds, volunteer efforts to promote them online often lead to disappointing outcomes: the puppies are often the last chosen by potential adopters.
“The situation is unfortunate. We hustle to advertise them, fully aware that, as they grow, their chances of finding a home diminish,” explained Rosana Guerra, president of Indefesos. In the Netflix film, the story revolves around a stray dog helping a driven chef rediscover life’s purpose. Director Freitas hopes it resonates with Brazilian audiences, encouraging them to transform their affection for caramelos into tangible action. The tiny pup that chased after the delivery boy had originally been discovered alongside its siblings, abandoned on the roadside. Since filming concluded, several of the dogs involved have already found new homes. “I want this story to reflect the incredible nature of these dogs. They truly transform our lives,” Freitas shared fondly, with his own caramelo resting at his feet.