Dog fighting is a cruel and inhumane practice that has been banned in many countries. Unfortunately, some dog breeds have been historically associated with this blood sport due to their strength, loyalty, and perseverance. However, it is important to understand that these breeds are not inherently aggressive. With the right training, socialization, and care, they can be affectionate, loyal, and loving companions. Below are ten dog breeds that have been linked to dog fighting but, in reality, make great pets when raised in a positive environment.
1. American Pit Bull Terrier – The Misunderstood Companion
The American Pit Bull Terrier, often simply called the Pit Bull, is one of the most recognized breeds associated with dog fighting. However, their reputation as dangerous dogs is largely due to misconceptions. In reality, Pit Bulls are affectionate, intelligent, and eager to please their owners. They are known as “nanny dogs” because of their gentle and protective nature around children. Socialization from an early age helps them develop into well-mannered pets. While they have strong muscles and determination, their true nature is one of loyalty and love when raised in a caring home.
2. Akita Inu – The Loyal Guardian
The Akita Inu is a powerful and dignified breed that originated in Japan. Historically, they were bred as hunting and guard dogs, and their protective instincts made them a target for illegal dog fights. Akitas are naturally reserved with strangers but form strong bonds with their families. While they may not always get along with other pets, they are deeply devoted to their owners. Their thick coat and sturdy build make them a striking breed, but their true strength lies in their unwavering loyalty and affectionate nature towards their loved ones.
3. American Staffordshire Terrier – The Affectionate Athlete
Closely related to the Pit Bull, the American Staffordshire Terrier is another breed that has been unfairly associated with aggression. In reality, they are incredibly friendly, loving, and eager to be part of a family. They thrive on human companionship and are known for their playful and energetic nature. While they are strong and muscular, they are also affectionate and enjoy spending time with children and adults alike. Proper training and early socialization help them get along well with other pets.
4. Bullmastiff – The Gentle Protector
The Bullmastiff is a large and powerful breed known for its strength and protective instincts. Originally bred in England to guard estates and catch poachers, this breed was later exploited for dog fighting due to its muscular build and fearless nature. However, Bullmastiffs are naturally gentle and affectionate with their families. They form deep bonds with their owners and are especially good with children. While they may be reserved around strangers, they are not inherently aggressive.
5. Japanese Tosa – The Reserved And Loyal Breed
The Japanese Tosa is a rare breed that has been historically associated with dog fighting in Japan. Due to their size, strength, and endurance, they were often bred for fighting competitions. However, this breed is naturally quiet, intelligent, and devoted to its family. Japanese Tosas are known for their calm and composed temperament when raised in a loving environment. They require experienced owners who can provide firm but fair training. While they can be wary of strangers, they are incredibly loyal to their owners and form strong attachments.
6. Fila Brasileiro – The Fearless Guardian
Also known as the Brazilian Mastiff, the Fila Brasileiro is a large and protective breed with a strong guarding instinct. Originally bred for hunting and protecting livestock, they were later used in dog fighting due to their imposing size and strength. Despite their intimidating appearance, Filas are extremely loyal and affectionate with their families. They develop strong attachments to their owners and are known for their unwavering devotion. However, they require early socialization and consistent training to become well-adjusted pets.
7. Shar-Pei – The Independent Thinker
The Shar-Pei is a unique breed with deep wrinkles, small ears, and a distinctive blue-black tongue. Originally bred in China for hunting and guarding, they were unfortunately later used in dog fighting due to their strong will and protective instincts. However, despite their past association, Shar-Peis are not naturally aggressive. They are independent, intelligent, and deeply loyal to their families. While they can be wary of strangers, they are affectionate with their owners and can form strong bonds with those they trust.
8. Tibetan Mastiff – The Majestic Protector
The Tibetan Mastiff is a massive and powerful breed known for its thick, woolly coat and lion-like mane. Originally bred by Tibetan monks to guard livestock and monasteries, these dogs were highly valued for their protective nature. Their immense size and strength made them appealing for illegal dog fights in some regions, but in reality, Tibetan Mastiffs are not aggressive by nature. They are independent, intelligent, and highly devoted to their families. While they can be territorial, they are gentle and loving with those they trust.
9. Cane Corso – The Intelligent Guardian
The Cane Corso, also known as the Italian Mastiff, is a powerful and muscular breed with a strong work ethic. Historically, they were used by Roman soldiers for protection and hunting. Their loyalty, intelligence, and strength made them valuable working dogs, but they were later associated with dog fighting due to their imposing presence. Despite their fierce appearance, Cane Corsos are affectionate and devoted to their families. They thrive in homes where they receive proper training, socialization, and leadership.
10. Bully Kutta – The Loyal Working Dog
The Bully Kutta, also known as the Indian or Pakistani Mastiff, is a powerful and athletic breed that has been linked to dog fighting in some regions. However, these dogs were originally bred for guarding and hunting, not for aggression. Bully Kuttas are highly intelligent, strong-willed, and deeply loyal to their families. They require firm training and early socialization to ensure they develop into well-mannered companions. When raised in a positive and structured environment, they can be affectionate and devoted pets.
How Dog Fighting Affects The Reputation Of These Breeds
Even though the ten breeds mentioned above are loyal, intelligent, and affectionate, their historical association with dog fighting has unfairly tarnished their reputations. This stigma creates fear and misunderstanding, often leading to discrimination against these dogs. Many people assume they are naturally aggressive or dangerous, overlooking their true nature as loving and devoted companions. As a result, these breeds face restrictions, abandonment, and even mistreatment. Below are five ways this association negatively impacts these breeds and why these perceptions are misleading.
1. They Are Seen As Dangerous Dogs
Because these breeds were historically used in dog fights, many people assume they are naturally dangerous. This leads to breed-specific legislation (BSL) in some countries, banning or restricting ownership of breeds like the American Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, and Fila Brasileiro. However, in reality, no dog is born dangerous. Their behavior is shaped by their upbringing, training, and environment. With responsible ownership, these dogs can be just as gentle and loving as any other breed.
2. People Assume They Are Aggressive By Nature
Many people assume that dog breeds associated with fighting are naturally aggressive, but this is a widespread misconception. Aggression is not a breed-specific trait; rather, it develops due to factors like poor training, neglect, or mistreatment. For instance, breeds like the Bullmastiff and Akita Inu are naturally protective, yet they do not exhibit aggression unless provoked or improperly socialized. With the right upbringing, including early socialization and consistent training, these dogs can grow into calm, affectionate, and well-behaved companions.
3. They Are Feared For Having A Strong Bite Force
Some breeds like the Cane Corso, Tibetan Mastiff, and Bully Kutta have powerful jaws and strong bite forces. Because of this, people assume they are more likely to bite humans or other animals. However, bite force alone does not determine aggression. A well-trained dog, regardless of breed, will not bite unless provoked or put in a stressful situation. In fact, many smaller breeds, such as Chihuahuas or Dachshunds, are more likely to bite due to fear-based aggression, but they are not stigmatized in the same way as larger breeds.
4. Misconceptions Lead To Fewer Adoption Opportunities
Due to their unfair reputation, dogs from these breeds are frequently ignored in shelters. Many potential adopters mistakenly believe they are aggressive or unsafe, even though most have gentle and affectionate temperaments. This misconception leads to lower adoption rates and tragically higher euthanasia rates, especially for breeds like Pit Bulls and Staffordshire Terriers. Raising awareness, promoting responsible ownership, and advocating for breed-neutral policies are essential in changing public perception and helping these misunderstood dogs find the caring homes they deserve.
5. They Are Often Mistreated Due To Fear
Fear and misconceptions often result in the mistreatment of these breeds. Some believe that strong, firm discipline is necessary to control them, leading to punishment-based training methods that are ineffective and harmful. Others assume they are inherently dangerous around children or other pets despite no factual basis for this belief. As a result, many of these dogs face unnecessary restrictions, isolation, or even abandonment. In reality, breeds like the American Pit Bull Terrier and Cane Corso thrive with positive reinforcement, proper training, and early socialization.
Love Pets as Much as We Do?
Scroll up and click the ‘Follow’ button to stay updated with the latest heartwarming, hilarious, and helpful pet posts from Pawdown, delivered straight to your Microsoft Start feed and MSN homepage!