Caramel-Colored Stray Dogs Emerge as Brazil's New National Symbol

Once overlooked, Brazil's 'caramelos' gain cultural significance through memes, a Netflix film, and Carnival celebrations.

Brazil's 'vira-lata caramelo' dogs, known for their caramel color and resilience, are being celebrated as symbols of national identity and pride.
The Netflix film 'Caramelo,' featuring a stray dog protagonist, is part of a $164 million investment in Brazilian productions but has no confirmed release date yet.
Carnival 2025 in Rio will spotlight 'caramelos' with themed costumes and a parade focusing on animal abandonment and abuse.
Despite their rising fame, caramel-colored strays are still often overlooked for adoption in favor of smaller or fluffier breeds, according to shelter volunteers.
The cultural embrace of 'caramelos' challenges Brazil's historical 'mongrel complex,' reframing its mixed heritage as a source of pride and resilience.