“Man’s best friend” may fight to the death in dogfights, often with tens of thousands of dollars at stake. Dogfighters sometimes kill the losing dogs, and even winning dogs may die from their wounds. Police often discover drugs, guns, and even murder in connection with dogfights.


Organized, large-scale dogfighting operations have declined in recent years, thanks in part to The HSUS' work against dogfighting.

Street dogfighting, however, is on the rise in urban areas. Neighborhood pit bull owners seeking status or bragging rights stage impromptu fights in back alleys or basements. We are making inroads into street dogfighting, too.

All fighting dogs suffer, whether in the pit or out. Although they are pack animals, an instinct to fight other dogs is bred into these dogs so deeply that they mainly live isolated on chains or locked in cages.

Together we can save dogs from this abuse.


"End Dogfighting" Programs in Demand

In one day, The HSUS received more than 100 requests for End Dogfighting classes in communities around the country.

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News & Events

  • November 18, 2009

    Los Angeles' Dogfighting Tip Line

    The HSUS teamed up with Los Angeles District Attorney Steve Cooley to establish a 24-hour tip line to report dogfighting.

  • November 16, 2009

    Rescued Puppies Ask Legislators To Help Less Lucky Dogs

    Puppies rescued from an Indiana dogfighting operation go to the statehouse for pit bulls.

  • November 13, 2009

    Missouri Dog Transport

    The Humane Society of the United States is transporting 21 dogs rescued during July’s historic multi-state federal dogfighting raid to foster groups in Virginia and Massachusetts. The HSUS loaded up the lucky animals in Missouri after having worked with the Humane Society of Missouri on the initial rescue mission.

  • November 10, 2009

    Training Pit Bull Friends, Not Fighters

    The HSUS holds free and accessible weekly pit bull training classes, which provide inspiring alternatives to dogfighting that showcase pit bulls as friends, not fighters.

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