50 Fighting Dog Breeds List Of Fighting Dog Breeds Which Dog Breed Was Bred for Fighting? Best dog breeds for fighting Are all fight dogs aggressive? List of dog fighting breeds Is dog fighting legal anywhere in the world? Which breeds are commonly associated with dog fighting? Modern Fighting Dog Breeds Extinct Fighting Dog Breeds Which dogs can kill lions? Which dogs can kill wolfs Short-Tempered Fight Dogs Fighting Dogs Temperament Fighting Dogs Country Of Origin Short-Fuse Dog Breeds Aggressive Dog Breeds Dog-Fighting Dog Breeds
Dog fighting is a cruel animal blood sport whose origin traces back to Medieval Europe. Fighting dog breeds are used in dog fighting, which is illegal in many countries. However, there are still some places where it is prevalent. Fighter dogs must stay on a strict diet and exercise regularly to fight and win rewards. Some breeds were just fit to fight, while others were primarily bred for this purpose. Fighting dog breeds were not chosen but bred from other breeds with particular traits that people found suitable to be fighting dogs or whatever agenda they had for them in mind.
Which breeds are commonly associated with dog fighting? American Staffordshire Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, American Bulldogs, and Staffordshire Terriers are commonly associated with dog fighting. Most fight dogs are not exactly aggressive but protective, territorial and not friendly towards strangers. This behavior can be corrected with proper training, assertive comments and socialization.
Which dog breed can defeat a wolf? Dog breeds generally considered significantly stronger than wolves include: Mastiffs (especially the Italian and French varieties), Cane Corsos, Kangal Shepherd Dogs, Rottweilers, and Alaskan Malamutes, primarily due to their large size, powerful bite force, and protective instincts developed for guarding livestock.
Which dogs can kill lions? Wolf dogs, Boerboel dogs, Fila Brasileiros, Bloodhounds, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Neapolitan Mastiffs, Dogo Argentinos
Is dog fighting legal anywhere in the world? Most countries have banned dog fighting all over the world. However, some countries such as Honduras, Japan, Russia, and Albania still have not illegalized this barbaric act.
They are not very friendly to strangers. Hence, socialization from a young age helps. However, they are loving and protective towards their family and territory. 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.
The American Pitbull Terrier, who famously goes by Pitbull, is often misunderstood as a ferocious dog. They are actually very affectionate and love to be around children and families. They are also known to be "nanny dogs" as they are very reliable to keep watch over kids. 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.
Bully Kuttas are tall, giant, powerful and muscular dogs. They originated from the Sindh region of India and Pakistan. They are aloof, aggressive and courageous dogs that have a great fighting instinct and stamina. The original name of this breed is Bulli Kutta. They got their name from the Hindi/Urdu word Bholi, which means "heavily wrinkled", and Kutta, which means dog. They are also known as Alangu and Sindh Mastiffs. Bully Kutta's are not yet recognized by some of the major kennel clubs. But they have become popular in recent years, and they are among the most in-demand dogs in India, Pakistan, Turkey, Afghanistan, Russia and a few other countries for dog fighting sports.
American Staffordshire Terrier shares many similarities with pit bull terriers, but the former is shorter in size. The only thing that you need to be aware of is that they tend to be aggressive towards other male dogs. However, training with proper socialization from a young age can prevent this tendency. Also, they are not a big fan of cats. However, if you raise them with other animals together, they will bond like they are in a "pack." 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. Do not 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.
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 are not 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.
Bull Mastiff or English Mastiff is a large breed and is pretty effective at dog fighting. Despite their appearance, they actually have a sweet demeanor. They were bred in England to help gamekeepers in catching poachers. They are protective and territorial and protective and very good with children. They are tall, giant, powerful, courageous and friendly. They were developed for personal protection and to participate in dog fighting. They are excellent for fighting, and they have the reputation that when they are charged, they will fight to the death. Tosa Inu dogs are banned in some countries, while in others like Russia, Pakistan and South Africa they are still in demand.
The Japanese Tosa is an authentic Japanese breed dog that is now banned in countries like Norway, Turkey, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Denmark. This breed also comes under The Dangerous Dog Act in Trinidad, Tobago, and the UK. Many insurance companies do not insure a property or owner if there is a Tosa. They are tall, giant, powerful, courageous and friendly. They were developed for personal protection and to participate in dog fighting. They are excellent for fighting, and they have the reputation that when they are charged, they will fight to the death.
Fila Brasileiro, who also goes by Brazilian Mastiff, is widely popular as a hunting and guard dog. The breed is known for its aggressive temperament and large and sturdy stature. Originating from Brazil, this breed is equally effective in dog fighting and protecting what is theirs.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T
BLUE PAUL TERRIER
Origin: Scotland (Extinct Breed)
Temperament: Protective, Very Aggressive Breed
The Blue Paul was undoubtedly a Scottish breed of dog, peculiar to the West, where the sport of dog-fighting was carried on. These dogs were really very similar to what was known as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the fighting dogs of the Black Country – the chainmakers' dogs of Cradley Heath – only they were heavier.
BULLENBEISSER
Origin: Germany (Extinct Breed)
Temperament: Extremely loyal to its owner and Intelligent
The Bullenbeisser, also known as the German Bulldog, is an extinct breed of dog known for its strength and agility. It is an ancestor of both the modern Boxer and the English bulldog. The Bullenbeisser was a mastiff-like dog and thought to have been bred as a hunting dog.
The features of Shar-Pei, such as its wrinkly skin and minuscule ears, make you go "aww" rather than identifying it as a fighting dog. This breed is typically a one-man dog, and with proper training and socialization, they can be delightful to be around. However, they are very protective and not welcoming towards strangers. Proper grooming and positive reinforcement can diminish their aggressive temperament.
BONE-MOUTH
SHAR-PEI
Origin: Southern China
Temperament: Devoted and protective of their families
Bone-mouth Shar Peis are taller, slimmer and have much fewer wrinkles on the face than the Meat-Mouth strong. They are aggressive, courageous and dominant dogs. They originated from Namhoi City in the Guangdong province of southern China and were bred to partake in dog fighting sports. They are devoted and protective of their families and friendly towards humans, but they are aggressive towards other dogs and unreliable with other pets.
The appearance of a Tibetan Mastiff can be rather intimidating not because of any sharp features but because of their extensively bushy coat accompanied by their large size. The breed originates from China and accompanies shepherds to guard livestock and fight off wolves and bears. This breed is comparatively more intelligent than the other breeds discussed in this blog. However, like other dogs, they will also require positive reinforcement and companionship to be on their best behavior.
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.
This breed does not 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.
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.
CORDOBA FIGHTING DOG
Origin: Argentina (Extinct Breed)
Temperament: Large, White and Ferocious
The Córdoba fighting dog was a type of dog indigenous to Córdoba, Argentina, that resulted from crossbreeding old mastiff types of unknown pedigree. They were purposely bred for the sport of dog fighting until the early 20th century. They became extinct after dog fighting became illegal in Argentina in 1954.
A popular Irish lore tells us that his ancestor was a brave dog, the only survivor of a ship wrecked off Tralee Bey in the late 1700s who swam ashore and mated with local terriers. Their descendants were quite prone to fighting and were particularly appreciated to protect farms against intruders, animal or human. The early Kerries were also said to be the only dogs capable of tackling "an otter, single-handed, in deep water". Unfortunately they were also used for dog fighting in the 1800s. A long head, flat skull, deep chest, and a soft wavy-to-curly coat that comes in several shades of "blue".
DOGO CUBANO
Origin: Cuba (Extinct Breed)
Temperament: Extremely Courageous and Aggressive
The Dogo Cubano, also called the Cuban Bloodhound or Cuban Bullmastiff, is an extinct Cuban breed of domestic dog. It was of the dogo sub-type of the bullmastiff dog type, which as a general class was used for bull-baiting and dog fighting. The variety was introduced in Cuba to capture runaway slaves (cimarrones).
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, do not 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.
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.
AFGHAN SHEPHERD
(KUCHI)
Origin: Afghanistan
Temperament: Fiercely Independent, Intelligent and Energetic Crossbreed
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.
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.
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 is no wonder the Boerboel is often used as one of the fighting dog breeds.
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.
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.
HMONG BOBTAIL
Origin: Vietnam
Temperament: Loyal and friendly with their owner, they are aloof towards strangers and protective of their territory
Hmong bobtail dogs are square, muscular, medium sized dogs. The Hmong docked tail is an ancient and primitive dog native to Vietnam and one that got its name after human cultures from the country. The dog was developed by the Hmong people as a hunting companion and to protect their livestock. It is a semi-wild hunting dog that is naturally healthy and sturdy and has excellent stamina and energy. The Hmong people were docking their tails and ears because they had the conviction that docking the tails and ears of dogs would make them more active and aggressive. Hmong dogs are territorial and dominant dogs and must be trained and socialized at an early stage.
Gaddi Kutta are giant mastiff dogs also known as Mahidant Mastiffs and Indian leopard hounds. They were developed by the Gaddi tribes of Himachal Pradesh, India, to protect livestock from leopard and wolf attacks and to herd stray sheep and goats back to their pens. They are very active, athletic and strong dogs who are intelligent, protective, loyal and courageous. They make good guard dogs. They are known as leopard hounds because of their capability to fight off attacks from dangerous animals. Gaddi dogs were bred for herding and hunting, but they have also been used for dog fighting. Gaddi are devoted and friendly dogs that are reliable with children and other small pets.
KOMBAI
Origin: India
Temperament: Highly intelligent and extremely loyal to, and affectionate
Kombai is an ancient dog breed developed in Tamil Nadu, India, a state in the southern part of the country. They are also known as Combai and South Indian Mastiffs. Kombais were developed as a hunting companion for royal families (like the Maravar kings) to hunt wild boar, deer and other prey. Later they were used for other blood sports like hunting wild boar, bison, and deer. They are medium to large, healthy, study and athletic dogs with excellent power, speed and stamina. They are gentle, devoted, friendly and protective dogs, but they are simultaneously reserved around other pets and strangers.
BHUTIA
(HIMALAYAN SHEEPDOG)
Origin: Nepal
Temperament: Protective and Independent nature, Affectionate and Gentle
Bhutia are ancient dogs that are giant, strong and courageous mastiffs, and they are native to Bhutan. They are close relatives of Tibetan Mastiffs, and there is a link between Indigenous and Himalayan Mastiffs. Unfortunately, they are identified under the endangered category, and very few purebred Bhutia dogs are around today. They are giant, gentle and friendly dogs developed as guard dogs to protect humans and livestock from leopards and Himalayan wolves. They are fearless and powerful dogs, which are strong enough to fend off attacks by snow leopards.
The Thai Ridgeback is less recognized, though it is an ancient and primitive dog from Thailand. They are the missing link between African Ridgeback and Australian Dingos, which share similar physical and behavioral traits. They are one of the only dogs that have ridges on their back (like African Ridgebacks). Thai Ridgebacks are medium-sized, sturdy, well-built, athletic, and active, and these traits make good watchdogs. Thai Ridgebacks are naturally healthy and in need of less grooming and vet care than many other dogs.
GULL TERRIER
Origin: Pakistan, India
Temperament: Aggressive, Trainable, Wary of Strangers
Gull Terriers are a newer dog breed that was developed in Pakistan. They were created by mixing the English Bull Terrier with primitive dogs from Pakistan. Gull Terriers are medium-sized, strong and muscular dogs. Since they are a new breed, their behavior and breed standard is not defined yet, and similarly, they are not recognized by any major kennel clubs. The initial purpose of creating this dog was to develop a strong and fearless native dog breed for protection and guard. But they got into the wrong hands, which are now grooming them to participate in dog fighting sports.
GULL DONG
Origin: Pakistan, India
Temperament: Aggressive, Stubborn, Loyal, Devoted
The Gull Dong is a dog breed of India and Pakistan that is often used in dog fighting, hunting, and guarding. They are loyal and devoted to their master, but have a natural wariness and distrust of strangers. This fact, combined with their protective territorial instinct, can make them a formidable dog to confront. They tend to have a grumpy disposition and have a dominant nature.
The Alano Espanol or Spanish Bulldog is a Spanish breed of medium to large sized dog of alaunt-bulldog type. It has at various times been used as a war dog, for bullfighting, for the management of cattle, for hunting and as a guard dog.
ARYAN MOLOSSUS
Origin: Persia
Temperament: Extremely aggressive towards other dogs and intolerant of strangers
Aryan Molossus is big mastiff-type dog. The ancient Aryan Molossus has close ties with the Sage Koochee and old Persian mastiffs, as well as other Central Asian dogs, but this is a pure and distinct Afghani breed, likely older than the rest of its relatives. An excellent watchdog and guardian, this remarkably powerful mastiff is most often employed as a fighting dog, used to settle various disputes between villagers, who respect the result of the match as the final judgment. In some ways closer to Caucasian dogs than to the CAO breed, the powerful Asal is an athletic, muscular Molosser that is extremely aggressive towards other dogs and intolerant of strangers. Because of its vicious nature, it is managed only by its owner, or an expert village dog.
ALPINE MASTIFF
Origin: Britain (Extinct Breed)
Temperament: Highly affectionate dogs
The Alpine mastiff was a type of molosser, or "flock-guardian phenotype" with the same or similar ancestral origins as the Saint Bernard. However, unlike the Saint Bernard, the Alpine mastiff was never a bona fide breed. It is believed to be the progenitor of the modern English Mastiff, as well as other breeds that derive from these types of dogs or that are closely related. M. B. Wynn wrote, "In 1829 a vast light brindle dog of the old Alpine mastiff breed, named L'Ami, was brought from the convent of Great St. Bernard area, and exhibited in London and Liverpool as the largest dog in England." William Cavendish, 5th Duke of Devonshire, is believed to have bred Alpine mastiffs at Chatsworth House. It was earlier thought that ears of the Alpine mastiffs were cut to prevent them becoming frost bitten.
DOGUE DE BORDEAUX
Origin: France
Temperament: Even Tempered, Loyal, Devoted, Vigilant, Companionable, Courageous
Immensely powerful mastiff-type guardian! Once known as the "French Fighting Dog", the Dogue de Bordeaux was used in combat against bulls, lions, wolves, ars and hyenas. It was also used as a utility guard and as a dog of war. Spanish officers took many of them along in their conquest of the New World.
DOGO GUATEMALTECO
Origin: Guatemala
Temperament: Highly sociable dog with people. Shortly territorial. Aggressive toward other dogs.
The Dogo Guatemalteco was bred specifically to be a guard dog. They have also been used in dog fighting rings. These dogs are faithful and form strong bonds with their family. Well-muscled with a large head and alert expression.
The Kangal Shepherd Dog is a traditional Turkish breed of large livestock guardian dog. The breed name derives from that of the town and district of Kangal in Sivas Province, the easternmost province of the Central Anatolia Region in central Turkey. The Kangal is kept with flocks of sheep to fend off wolves and other predators.
They have been used in the past for dog fights and they do retain their dominance towards other dogs. In 1938 the Jindo was declared to be a National Treasure and they were spared in the massacre of dogs by the Japanese in World War II. Medium-sized dogs with a foxlike face and a thick tail that curls up over their coarse, medium-length double coat.
LOTTATORE BRINDISINO
Origin: Italy
Temperament: Aloof, Aggressive, Loyal, Vicious
This modern fighting breed was developed by crossing Cane Corsos, Rottweilers and Pit Bulls in Brindisi, Italy. A fairly recent creation, this dog hasn't been standardized or recognized anywhere and outcrosses are still quite common. Some Mastino Napolitano influence can reportedly be seen in certain bloodlines, but the majority of such dogs tend to be overall larger than the typical representatives of the breed. Medium sized Molosser dog, robustly built, muscular and with large shoulders and chest
The Molossus – The Dog That Conquered The World! The Molossus, also known as the Molossian hound and Epirus mastiff, is an extinct dog breed from Ancient Greece. During the era of Julius Caesar and the Roman Empire, those dogs of war were the Molossus.
The ancient Romans, impressed by these dogs, gave them a Latin name - canis pugnax, meaning fighting dog. Large, massive and powerful in the heyday of the Roman Empire, descendants of the Neapolitan mastiff were used during legionary military expeditions, to fight in arenas with gladiators, bears, lions and tigers.
NEW GUINEA
SINGING DOG
Origin: New Guinea
Temperament: Active, Intelligent, and Independent
New Guinea holds an ancient secret: a seldom seen, fiercely predatory wild canine called the New Guinea singing dog. Wildlife biologists had thought that New Guinea singing dogs went extinct in the wild sometime in the 1970s. Singing dogs show high levels of aggression towards members of their species during the mating season, sometimes even fighting to the death. Small, compact body and a wedge-shaped head with pointed ears.
Moving on from their knack for getting along well with kids and other animals, it is key to touch on the Old English Bulldog's potential for aggression. These dogs have a historic background tied to bull-baiting and fighting. Today, Olde English bulldogge has returned with a mild temperament, less aggressive tendencies, and a people-pleasing personality.
PERRO de
PRESA MALLORUIN
(CA DE BOU)
Origin: Spain
Temperament: Quiet by nature, but are Courageous and Brave
The Ca de Bou or Perro de Presa Mallorquin is a Spanish breed of catch dog from Majorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands. The one distinguishing dog of the times was the mastiff of the Iberian Peninsula, which was used as a hunting or fighting dog against bulls (bull baiting) or other dogs. Medium sized molosser with a strong build and deep wide chest.
The Presa Canario is a Spanish breed of large dog of mastiff or catch dog type. It originates in the Spanish autonomous community of the Canary Islands, and is found mostly in the islands of Gran Canaria and Tenerife. It was formerly known as the Dogo Canario. It was traditionally used as a guard dog, as a herding dog for both sheep and cattle, and for dog-fighting, which was legal in Spain until 1936 and may have continued clandestinely thereafter. Robust rectilinear profile and a black mask. The moderately large dog has a calm appearance and attentive expression.
GLEN OF
IMAAL TERRIER
Origin: Ireland
Temperament: Brave, sometimes Stubborn, and Keenly Interested in the doings of small furry critters
Serving as all-around farm dogs, to guard and work livestock, to eradicate vermin, to hunt fox, badger, otter, mink, and so on, these earth dogs (terriers) were also reputedly used to turn kitchen treadmills, spits and churns, and in dog-fighting. Robust, medium-sized dog with a body longer than its height.
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