Dog Fighting - History and Facts

With all the recent controversy surrounding NFL quarterback Michael Vick and his alleged tie to dog fighting, I thought I would take a closer look at this illegal event which has the nation in an uproar.

The Humane Society estimates that 40,000 dog fights take place in the United States every year. It is considered a felony in 48 states and a misdemeanor in Idaho and Wyoming.

HISTORY OF DOG FIGHTING

Dog fighting has existed since the domestication of the species. It was a well-known event in the Roman Coliseum and was later popularized by the British. It flourished for well over 600 years and reached its peak in the 16th century. It remains incredibly popular in many parts of world today.

Afghanistan - The Taliban did not allow dog fighting. Since their liberation, the people of Afghanistan have once again started engaging in their passion for dog fighting.

Japan - While it is banned in Tokyo, dog fighting can still be seen in other parts of the country. It has been popular all the way back to the days of the shogun.

Russia - Dog fighting is widely practiced in Russia and the Russian mafia reportedly has turned this into a multi-million dollar industry.

United Kingdom - Dog fighting remains popular in certain parts of the UK, despite the fact that it is illegal.

Latin America -Very popular in Latin America, especially Brazil, Colombia and Argentina.

THE FIGHTING DOGS

The breed of choice for U.S. dogfighters is the American Pit Bull Terrier, although the Dogo Argentino and Presa Canario are increasing in popularity. While the American Kennel Club does not recognize pit bulls as a distinct breed, they do register breeds such as the bull terrier, bulldog, Staffordshire bull terrier and American Staffordshire terrier (these latter two dogs are often lumped into the “pit bull“ category). Popular international breeds are the Tosa in Japan and the Fila Brasileiro in Latin America.

Professional level dogfighters are very particular about the pedigree of their dogs, and a champion dog can earn a lot of money in stud fees.

TRAINING

Fighting dogs are trained from an early age to develop “gameness” (the willingness to fight despite extreme pain and exhaustion). Training varies depending on the level and experience of the owner. Some common methods of training are:

Treadmill - Increases endurance and cardiovascular fitness.

Jenny - Beams extend from a central rotating pole. The dog is tied to one pole, while a small animal is hung or harnessed from another pole. The dog then runs in circles as he or she pursues the quarry. The dog is usually rewarded with the bait once the exercise is over.

Springpole - A large pole is fixed in the ground with a spring hanging down. A rope, animal hide or tire is attached to the spring. The dog is expected to jump up and latch onto the item. This exercise is designed to strengthen the jaw muscles and back legs.

Chains and Weights - Heavy chains are wrapped around the neck of the dog to build neck and upper body strength. The same effect may be achieved by attaching a weight to a chain and hanging it from the dog‘s neck.

Bait - Animals are tied up and the dog is trained to attack and kill them.

Vitamins/Supplements/Drugs - The most commonly used are: B-12, hormones, steroids, weight-gain supplement, creatine, meth, iron/liver extract, and cocaine.

Flirtpole - A handheld pole with a lure attached to the end. The dog chases the lure along the ground.

Dogs will often be trained against one another and older, more experienced dogs. Early on, dogs engage in short fights referred to as “bumps” or “rolls” and are also incited to lunge at one another without touching.

THE FIGHT

Professional fighters have very specific rules for their fights, while street fighters tend to be less organized. Fighters will put the word out that they have a dog they want to “match” and specify the weight of the dog. Another fighter will respond and both owners will put up forfeit money for the fight.

The next stage is the “keep,” which is where the dogs undergo rigorous training and a special diet. This can include running, swimming, massages and weight pulling. The keep lasts until the day of the fight. If a dog comes in overweight or underweight, then the fight is called off and the opponent gets the forfeit money.

The fight pit is usually 14 to 20 square feet and 2 to 3 feet high. Diagonal “scratch lines” are made at opposite ends of the pit. The dogs must remain behind these lines until the referee calls for the handlers to “face your dog” and then “let go.” At this point, both dogs lunge at each other.

The dogs fight until one turns their head and shoulders away from the opponent. At this point, the dogs are separated and placed behind the scratch lines. Then they begin again. The dog who turned is released and has 10 seconds to move across the ring and attack the other dog (who is held fast). If he does, then the fight continues. If not, the fight is over. The match continues like this until one dog is too injured to continue, refuses to fight, is pulled out of the ring by a handler, jumps out of the pit, or dies. Fights can last for well over an hour.

THE CULTURE

Dogfighters come from all walks of life, and a vast underground culture has grown up around this hobby. Trade journals such as Your Friend and Mine, Game Dog Times, The American Warrior and The Pit Bull Chronicle are available. One of the largest publications, The Sporting Dog Journal, has a circulation of over 10,000 worldwide.

The Internet has also become a place for owners and enthusiasts to come together. These sites range from message boards and veterinary tips to historic fights and tributes to deceased trainers.

Given the large amount of money bet on these events, professional dog fighters can make a tremendous amount of money. While hobbyists may confine themselves to a specific region, the professional will travel across the country for high-stakes fights.

Dog Fighting - History and Facts