Dogfighting is a controversial and violent sport in which two dogs battle for the entertainment of spectators, many of whom place bets on the outcome. A fight can last several hours, and many dogs die of their injuries. Many countries have banned dogfighting for its cruelty. But it is still legal in much of the world.
The breeds commonly used in dogfighting include American pit bull terriers, American Staffordshire terriers, and Staffordshire bull terriers. Dogs that are raised to be fighters are called “game bred” dogs. The owners of such dogs usually crop the dogs’ tails and ears close to the body. This cropping makes the dogs appear more aggressive and makes it more difficult for other dogs to read the dog’s intentions through body language. It also leaves less of the ears and tail for an opponent to grab in its jaws.
Most dogfights take place in a small enclosed square called a pit. Handlers keep the dogs in opposing corners until the fight begins. During the fighting, handlers are not allowed to touch the dogs. If a dog runs away from its opponent, the referee calls a “turn” and both dogs are returned to their corners and then released. If the dog that committed the “turn” fails to fight again, the referee declares the other dog the winner. The owner of the winning dog receives prize money. If the losing dog survives, the owner may kill it.
Dogfighting is legal in many parts of Africa, Asia, eastern Europe, and Latin America. Countries where it is illegal include Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. But even in some of these areas, thousands of people are thought to earn their livelihood in activities associated with illegal dogfighting.
See also Pit bull .
