Fighting dogs: breeds and features

It is safe to say about fighting dog breeds that they are hardy, attentive and brave defenders. The owner can make any dog ​​a fighting dog, but there are certain breeds that are better than others for this role because of their centuries of experience in fighting. Such dogs have the necessary qualities and a certain body structure. In classifications from international kennel federations or the English Kennel Club there is no concept of “fighting dog”, but some breeds with certain characteristics are called this way.

History and purpose of breeding

Many fighting breeds were originally bred by the ancient Romans for fighting other dogs, baiting bulls, or participating in wars. English mastiffs were used to form fighting units that rushed at the enemy. In England, bulldogs helped butchers kill a bull. Until the middle of the XNUMXth century, pit bull terriers were set on bulls tied to a post. Today, in most countries of the world, dog fighting is prohibited. Therefore, due to proper selection, modern fighting dogs do not behave so aggressively. But the guarding and protective skills of their ancestors were preserved at the genetic level.

General characteristics of the group of dogs

Almost all fighting breeds are bred for obedience to their owners. A dog can show ferocity and a tough temper if it is not properly educated and trained. Most often, bull terriers and mastiffs are considered fighting breeds.

The most popular representatives of the group

Despite the fact that the term “fighting dog” is common on a par with the terms “hounds” or “terriers”, the category is not officially recognized by any international cynological organization. Usually this group includes the following breeds: Alabai, Tosa Inu, American Bulldog, Pit Bull, Cane Corso, English Mastiff, American Staffordshire Terrier, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Akita Inu, Great Dane, Boxer, Doberman, Rottweiler, Boerboel, American Bandog .

Appearance

All fighting dogs have similar external features: they have a large and strong body, powerful paws and a massive head and jaw. Such impressive size and intimidating appearance allowed them in ancient times to hunt large wild animals and protect people from enemies. But sometimes there are small dogs with an elongated muzzle.

Temperament

Fighting dogs are unusually fearless creatures. They can bark menacingly, have a strong grip, and have a low pain threshold. Dogs respond well to training, during which they accumulate muscle mass. These animals are smart, energetic, alert. Despite their strength and courage, they have a gentle nature and good nature towards their owners and children. For example, a pit bull is so passionate that he is able to fight with another dog in conditions of incredible physical fatigue. The English Bulldog, on the contrary, gets tired quickly, so instead of active games, he prefers to lie quietly next to the owner. Usually representatives of breeds of a fighting group are very comfortable in the status of singles, they do not need another dog nearby.

Features of care

Fighting breeds do not require special care. It is enough to wash pets with often watery eyes and trim their claws. Dogs are very active, so it is better to keep them not in the apartment, but in the house. The owner with a soft and timid character is not suitable for a pit bull, owning such a dog requires a huge responsibility. But the English Mastiff is so calm that it can be a wonderful family companion. The American Staffordshire Terrier is also family friendly due to its poise and friendliness. Alabaevs have a rather complex psyche, so they need rigor and discipline. Fighting dogs need to be walked in a muzzle and on a short leash. For the execution of commands, the dog must be rewarded with praise or a treat. Like any animal, it cannot be beaten, but you always need to show who is the boss in the house and who needs to be obeyed.

Prevalence in the world and in Russia

Despite the fact that Russia has a law on the responsible treatment of animals, dog fights are still held in some regions. They are monitored by the All-Russian Association of Wolfhound Breeders. The most common breeds of fighting dogs in Russia are the American Pit Bull, Asian and Caucasian Shepherds, English and Staffordshire Bull Terrier. In the United States, the most popular are the American Pit Bull Terrier and Dogo Argentino, in Pakistan and Afghanistan – the Pakistani Mastiff, in Japan – the Tosa Inu.

Most often, representatives of fighting dog breeds are devoted and loving pets. Therefore, it is worth paying more attention to them, training and educating them so as not to create a danger to others.