Fact sheets › Animal cruelty
Animal cruelty
Dog fighting
Dog fighting is the illegal, organised abuse of dogs forced to fight one another, usually for gambling. It is a serious crime that causes appalling injuries and is linked to other organised criminality.
About dog fighting
Dogs are bred, trained and conditioned to fight, often using treadmills, weighted collars and "bait" animals. Fights take place at secret locations and are frequently filmed.
It is connected to illegal gambling, weapons and drugs.
Signs to look for
- Dogs with heavy scarring, particularly to the face, legs and chest
- Fighting equipment — treadmills, "breaking sticks", weighted chains, or a fighting "pit"
- Multiple dogs kept chained apart, or veterinary supplies and steroids
- Groups gathering at unusual hours at secluded venues
The law
It is an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to cause, attempt to cause, or be present at an animal fight, and to make or possess recordings of animal fights.
Penalties include imprisonment, unlimited fines and disqualification from keeping animals.
How to report dog fighting
If you've witnessed dog fighting, please report it to us. Give as much detail as you can safely gather — what you saw, exactly where and when, descriptions of any people, animals or vehicles involved, and any photos or video. Do not put yourself at risk or confront anyone.
If an animal is in immediate danger, or a crime is in progress, call 999.