Dogs are often kept as pets in many homes. According to a National Pet Owners Survey conducted by American Pet Products Association, about 69 million people in the U.S own a dog as a pet. But can all breeds be considered pets?
Dogs are descendants of wolves, and no matter how much training they get, at the end of the day, dogs are animals, too. Not all breeds can be domesticated, as this could not only harm you. But also affects the life of the pet.
A flourishing life for dogs is very breed-specific. It is necessary to understand its nature and characteristics to get the best life for a dog.
Dog Fighting
Dog fighting is a blood sport where dogs have to go through a strict diet and training routine. The winner of these fights then gets a prize. Dog fighting is still considered illegal in many developed countries and is recognized as animal cruelty.
Some dog breeds are specific for this purpose, those having large bodies, powerful jaws, and are strongly built. While others were sturdily built but trained in such a manner. Another aspect of this despicable activity is bait animals or bait dogs.
Baiting dogs are used to test the fighting abilities of other dogs. They are generally tied while other dogs torture or even kill them. Bait dogs are dogs that cannot defend themselves or fight back.
We’ve compiled a list of 8 popular dog fighting breeds. Some dogs were born for this purpose, while others were later recognized as good in this aspect of life.
1. American Pitbull Terrier
Let’s start this list with the most famous fighter dog, about whom you’ve probably heard before. American pit bull terriers have been historically used as fighter dogs.
They are tenacious, loyal and aggressive, which makes them a perfect fit for this list. Because of their breed, they are sturdy and strong and won’t back off from a fight, not even if they are injured or close to death. They are courageous in the face of diversity.
2. Doberman
Also known as ‘Doberman Pinscher,’ they have distinct sleek bodies with a look of alertness. But don’t let this slim look fool you since they are originally bred for hunting and fighting. The term ‘Pinscher’ is a German word that refers to their habit of attacking.
They are strong, fast, and fearless, capable of inflicting grave injuries. They reckon smart and are super easy to train; this trait, along with aggression and stamina, can be a great participant in the dog fighting competition.
3. Kuchi
Kuchi dog or Afghan Shepherd Dog is a scarce breed. They are popular in Afghanistan and Pakistan and bred to be athletic and vigilante. Great stamina and protection of themselves; are the qualities that make them great at the fighting pit, who will fight fearlessly till the opponent gives up or dies.
Kuchis are not recognized by any kennel clubs in the west but are very beloved in their native places. They are highly territorial, and their temperament does not allow them to be family dogs.
4. Akita
Originally a Japanese dog. Akita was initially bred for fighting and hunting bears. They are considerably large in size with a high prey drive. In the 1600s, they were highly successful fighting dogs.
However, after the game became illegal, this breed was often found as guard dogs, police dogs, and hunting dogs. They have muscular bodies and powerful characters who fight against a dog with the same strength and ferocity.
5. German Shepherd
German Shepherds originated from Germany (hence the name) as a herding dogs. But due to their ability to get trained easily, they make up to be good fighters in the pit. Their personality has traits such as being robust and powerful, capable of mounting dangerous attacks.
They need well-built bodies. But they excel in aggression with a reputation for numerous biting incidents.
6. Cane Corso
Cane Corso Italiano, or Italian Mastiff, is a well-known strong and aggressive breed you don’t want to mess up with. An Italian breed and a war dog for the Roman army, now still seen as an army dog or in the police force.
They are considered one of the most responsive of the Mastiff family and easy to train with great endurance. Their large size and strong jaws help them become dominant in the fighting pit.
7. Tosa Inu
A rare breed of Japanese origin. A massive dog; bred for fighting (silently, as the Japanese preferred) in Japan. Outstandingly powerful and skillful with a high pain tolerance are the qualities which make a Tosa Inu superior.
The breed remains in Japan and is rarely seen in the U.S.A. These natural guards are, of course, fearless. It is not a good choice as a pet for either new or experienced owners and is still often used in dogfighting events.
8. Boerboel
Roots from Africa; are often referred to as African Mastiff. Boerboel has an intimidating personality. They are the most confident and agile of the Mastiff family and one of the most powerful dogs in the world. It is used as a fighting dog in Africa.
A massive head with powerful jaws, muscular build, and tremendous bite force that stands tall with dominancy. No wonder they are used as fighting dogs.
A not-so-popular list of dogs:
We’ve mentioned above 8 popular dogs. However, more dogs might not be that popular but can turn out great at the fighting pit:
- Neapolitan Mastiff
- Fila Brasileiro
- Tibetan Mastiff
- American Bulldog
- Dogo Argentino
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Gull Dong
- Presa Canario
- Jindo
- Kangal
- Caucasian Shepherd
- Shar Pei
Final Thoughts on Fighting Dog Breeds
The dogs mentioned above are the ones we see the most in the fighting pit. But, if you dig deep into the details of dog fighting breeds, you’ll be shocked to see the kinds of breeds trained to be a part of this.
Many countries are still thriving in the Dogfighting industry, while some do begin to outlaw this activity. The dogs mentioned above can also be great pets if provided with a suitable lifestyle, training, and socialization.
