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Dogfighting is a cruel animal blood sport where dogs are put on strict diets and training regimes, and the winning canine wins the owner's cash.
Some dogs were specifically bred for this sport, and most fighting dog breeds are medium-sized with sturdy bodies, strong jaws, and bite force.
However, while you're familiar with some breeds known to this sport, other most popular fighting dogs used in this disgraceful activity may surprise you.
A Quick Look at the Fighting Dog Breeds in this List
*Click to jump to each section
History of Dogfighting
Today, dogfighting is illegal in most developed countries and is considered animal cruelty, with huge penalties and even jail time for the owner.
Where it remains legal, the blood sport of dogfighting is divided into categories:
- Professional
- Amateur
- Street fighting
Dogfighting remains a legal sport in parts of the Russian Federation and Japan.
Elsewhere, even if it's officially unlawful to organize dogfighting events, the law turns a blind eye to it in Latin America, Pakistan, and some Eastern European countries.
It's even occasionally spotted in the U.S. and the U.K.
According to an NPR story, dogfighting originated when the ancient Romans pitted fighting dogs against each other in gladiator-style fights to the death.
These fights last until one dog dies, exits the pit, or fails to scratch.
As history shows, the dog who loses the battle is then shot by its owner, tortured, or beaten severely.
Other than the entertainment aspect of dogfighting, large sums of cash are at stake. Money is made by charging stud fees and admission.
Thus, a gambling format is reached. People can bet on a certain fighter dog to win some extra dough.
Fortunately, today's society finds the idea of two dogs being forced to fight against each other for sheer entertainment repulsive and immoral.
Dog fighting is a felony in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and many others.
Mexico also said “no” to any dogfighting activities.
RELATED: 20 Most Aggressive Dog Breeds
Fighter Dogs
While many dogs were and sadly still are used for fighting in different parts of the world, the modern fighting dogs we know today can all be traced back to five distinct breeds:
- Tibetan Mastiff
- Great Dane
- Saint Bernard
- Danish Mastiff
- Newfoundland
None of the above five make the list of popular fighting dogs today.
Years ago, fighting dog breeds were revered for their large bodies, builds, and jaws. They had to have a low and loud bark.
But now, fighting dog handlers prefer medium-sized and sturdy dogs.
Bait Animals
Bait animals are another cruel aspect of dogfighting that is less known or forgotten.
They are used to test the fighting ability of any fighter dog. They are usually tied up, and then the fighting dog is let loose.
These training methods also include killing and torturing other animals to test the fighting dog's strength.
Records show that most bait animals are obtained through dog adoption scams, stealing people’s pets, adopting pets from shelters under the pretense that they are going to a good home, and applying for “free to good home” ads.
Stories are circling about Americans being scammed in online puppy sales. That's why you must never advertise your pet online, where you can’t see where the animals will go.
Even though it's largely looked down upon and outlawed in the U.S. and other places, dogfighting is still thriving in many different countries.
Dogfighting is a huge problem in South Africa, especially in smaller provinces like Western Cape.
Even though it is illegal there, fewer human resources are involved in these activities.
The SPCA does its utmost best to eradicate the illegal sport, but it isn’t easy to reach everyone and spread awareness because it's very underground.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the most popular fighting dog breeds from centuries ago.
Some of these fighting dogs were bred from the beginning for this purpose, but they later realized that other similar dogs may also be good in the pit.
RELATED: 20 Most Dangerous Dogs in the World
15 Most Popular Fighting Dog Breeds
(some of these dogs will surprise you)
1. American Pit Bull Terrier
As you have probably expected, one of the first on the list is the most famous fighting dog – the American Pit Bull Terrier.
We all knew the Pittie would make the list of fighting dog breeds, and there's a reason for that. Western society has had a terrible reputation for them for many decades.
Pit Bulls are the most preferred breed for dog fighting because they are strong, sturdy, and loyal.
What makes them perfect fighting dogs is also their relentlessness—unlike other breeds, they won't back away from the fight even when injured or close to death.
2. American Bulldog
This breed doesn’t do well with other animals, making it a strong contender in the pit.
This is especially true when the other dog is of the same breed and sex.
American Bulldogs never back down from a confrontation.
Because they are highly prey-driven, they are sought after in dogfighting and remain one of the more popular fighting dog breeds outside the U.S.
3. Bull Terrier
Like American Pit Bull Terriers, this breed was historically known as a fighting dog.
In fact, the Bull Terrier breed was originally bred for dog fighting back in the Roman days.
It can often be seen portrayed in images of the Roman Empire (if you browse your history books).
This breed was and still is known as the canine gladiator.
But despite their appearance, they have a more favorable temperament than other fighting dog breeds on this list.
4. Cane Corso
Cane Corso is yet another well-known sturdy and strong breed that looks aggressive and generally makes most dogs' lists to watch out for.
This goes back to their history.
The “Italian Mastiff” was used as a soldier dog by the Romans because of their large and extremely intimidating size.
These dogs also have a mighty jaw and a strong prey drive.
Thanks to their large size and endurance in the pit, this breed can easily dominate, making them one of the best fighting dog breeds.
Today, they are also used in the military and become a popular dog in police work.
5. Doberman
Originally bred as a hunting and fighting dog, the Doberman's stamina and endurance make it a firm contender in dogfighting.
While this dog looks much slimmer than some other breeds on this list, don't let them fool you; Dobermans are known for their aggression and strength.
The Doberman packs a lot of muscle and power into its slim frame. It is also brilliant and enjoys pleasing its owner.
This is a very easy breed to train, and they often take trophies as one of the smartest dog breeds in the world.
However, while Dobermans are among the famous fighting dog breeds, they are also known for their poor genetic health and are not as popular today as they used to be.
RELATED: 15 Most Stubborn Dog Breeds That Are Difficult to Train
6. Rottweiler
Not many people know that Rottweilers are generally more aggressive, stronger, and more dangerous (when not trained properly) than the famous Pit Bulls or other breeds.
According to statistics, Rottweilers are the most scary dog breed due to the high number of dog bite accidents attributed to this breed.
Calm, courageous, and confident, this popular fighting dog breed will challenge anything confronting them.
Due to its strength, bite force, and aggressiveness, the Rottweiler is one of the most commonly used fighting dog breeds today.
7. American Staffordshire Terrier
Agile, athletic, fast, and relentless, the American Staffordshire Terrier is yet another well-known fighting dog breed used in illegal sports today.
AmStaff, as these dogs are known, is generally very aggressive towards other animals. They are relentless and will fight to the death.
Don't peg them as just one of the popular fighting dog breeds, though.
With training and proper socialization from puppyhood, the AmStaff can be a well-behaved companion and a loyal, calm pet to most loving dog owners.
8. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Another Terrier on the list, the “original” Staffordshire Bull Terrier from England, is just as popular in dogfighting.
The Staffy, as they're often called, will fight when it is challenged, and they aren’t great with other animals either.
They also have a high prey drive as a terrier breed, making them a perfect contender for a sport like dogfighting.
With their stocky build and drive to fight, these breeds are commonly seen in dog fights.
They are also smart, easy-to-train dogs that like to please their owners, making them even more perfect for this practice.
9. Kuchi
A scarce dog breed, Kuchi, also known as the Afghan Shepherd dog, is one of the most popular fighting dogs in Afghanistan and other countries in the surrounding area.
These dogs were originally bred to protect their owners until people realized they could also be used to make money in dog fighting.
Because Kuchi dogs are very territorial, hardy, and brought up to look after themselves, they make powerful competitors in the Middle East.
You will rarely see this dog breed in the United States.
RELATED: 20 Most Expensive Dog Breeds from Around the World
10. German Shepherd
German Shepherd dogs make the list of fighting dog breeds because they are used in some fighting rings, mostly due to their ability to be easily trained to attack.
They are not the strongest or sturdiest canine among fighting dogs, nor do they have a powerful dog bite, but their intellect makes them popular.
The German Shepherd has a natural attack instinct, an aggressive nature, and loyalty that can be honed even more when raised from puppyhood.
They are among the smartest dog breeds today, but they are not as strong as most other fighting dog breeds.
11. Akita
Strangely enough, the Akita is on the list of fighting dog breeds, mostly due to its high prey drive and aggressive nature.
This breed was never bred to fight, but in modern times (especially in the UK), they have been used in pits against other dogs of the same strength and ferocity.
This breed originated in Japan and was bred to guard the nobility in that country.
Dog owners also used them to track large game, such as bears and wild boars, and they were great hunting dogs in those days.
12. Boerboel
Because of its size and strength, the Boerboel is often used as a fighting dog in countries like South Africa.
Also known as the South African Mastiff, these canines were bred to guard against predators and work on farms.
They are one of the most powerful dog breeds in the world.
With a muscular and large build and a mighty jaw and bite force, it's no wonder the Boerboel is often used as one of the fighting dog breeds.
RELATED: 14 Best Watch Dogs & Breeds That Are Good Guard Dogs
13. Tosa Inu
Another scarce dog breed is the Tosa Inu, a large dog rarely seen in the U.S.
This dog breed is one of the few originally bred specifically as a fighting dog and for no other reason.
As a result, Tosa Inus are very aggressive, skillful at fighting other dogs, and extremely powerful.
This dog breed originated in Japan and remains mostly in that region. Sadly, it is still often used specifically in dogfighting events.
14. English Mastiff
Although dog fighting is not as favorable today as it was in the past, the English Mastiff is still used in fighting pits in some places and countries.
These massive dogs are known for their intimidating size and power.
Although they are born guard dogs, they are known for their mellow temperament when properly trained from a young age.
Trainers tap into the dog's natural dominance and drive to defend its territory when raising an English Mastiff for the fighting ring, but this breed is normally very calm and makes a great pet when raised properly.
15. Dogo Argentino
We expected another mean and scary-looking popular fighting dog breed to be on this list: the Dogo Argentino.
Large, muscular, and usually white, the Dogo Argentino is a strong opponent when put in the pit and will pose a danger to any other animal.
The loose skin around their neck makes it difficult for the other dog to get a grip and pull the Dogo down.
This breed is aggressive, with a powerful bite force, and it would be a terrifying opponent to any other canine on this list.
Honorable Mentions
These honorable mentions are also sometimes used as fighting dog breeds.
- Akita Inu
- Neapolitan Mastiff
- Bully Kutta
- Ca de Bou
- Fila Brasileiro
- Dogue de Bordeaux
- Gull Dong
- Presa Canario
- Jindo
- Gull Terrier
- Kangal
- Caucasian Shepherd
- Shar Pei
- Kerry Blue Terrier
- New Guinea Singing Dog
- Spanish Mastiff
FAQs about Fighting Dog Breeds
Still have questions about fighting dog breeds? The following should clear them up.
Which Dog Breed Is the Most Laidback?
The most laidback breeds include:
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- Bullmastiff
- Bulldog
- Chinese Crested Dog
- French bulldog
- Glen of Imaal terrier
- Clumber spaniel
If you want to meet more calm & friendly breeds, check out these lists:
- 11 Popular Mild-Tempered and Calm Small Dogs
- 10 Mellow Dog Breeds To Get For A Calm & Peaceful Home Life
What Dog Can Beat a Pitbull in a Fight?
A Rottweiler is the most likely to beat a Pitbull in a fight.
Which Dogs Can Kill Lions?
Rottweilers can kill lions, as well as the following:
- Wolf dogs
- Boerboel dogs
- Fila Brasileiros
- Bloodhounds
- Rhodesian Ridgebacks
- Neapolitan Mastiffs
- Dogo Argentinos
What Is the Most Difficult Dog to Own?
The most difficult dogs to own are typically the hardest to train.
These include:
- Beagles
- Rottweilers
- Siberian Huskies
- Chinese Shar-Peis
- Afghan Hounds
- Basset Hounds
RELATED: 20 Hardest Dog Breeds to Train (Based on Studies)
What Is the Calmest Dog?
Some of the calmest dogs are Newfoundlands, cocker spaniels, basset hounds, golden retrievers, French bulldogs, English bulldogs, and Boerboels.
Remember that much of a dog’s calmness depends on its training.
Fighting Dog Breeds: Conclusion
These few dogs are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to fighting dog breeds.
A single Google search will pull up hundreds of photos and videos of dogs fighting, and you'll see the most unexpected breeds forced to engage in this cruel activity.
In some countries, dogfighting is still thriving. It's sad to see this illegal, barbaric sport still alive today.
Still, more governments are coming to grips with their morals and continuing to outlaw dogfighting while more pet owners or dog lovers are becoming aware of it.
The fighting dog breeds mentioned above will make wonderful family dogs if trained and socialized properly!
They are only aggressive because of training and ownership; when that isn't their life's task, they will make great pets.
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- How Dog Fighting Business Works
- Dog Fighting Ring Suspected in Denver
