Dogfighting is a situation in which one dog attacks or fights another dog. Dogfighting is also a blood sport where dogs that have been bred, conditioned, and trained to fight are placed in a pit to fight each other for spectator entertainment and profit. Dogfighting—as defined in state and federal statutes—is a felony criminal offense in all states and under federal law.

The definitions and penalties or punishments for dogfighting vary from state to state but usually provide that a person commits an offense if the person intentionally or knowingly:

(1) causes a dog to fight with another dog;

(2) participates in the earnings of or operates a facility used for dogfighting;

(3) uses or permits another to use any real estate, building, room, tent, arena, or other property for dogfighting;

(4) owns or possesses dogfighting equipment with the intent that the equipment be used to train a dog for dogfighting or in furtherance of dogfighting;

(5) owns or trains a dog with the intent that the dog be used in an exhibition of dogfighting; or

(6) attends as a spectator an exhibition of dogfighting.

The criminal offense for dogfighting is sometimes included in state statutes that make it illegal to cause various kinds of animals to fight (dogs, bulls, cocks, etc.). Dogfighting is also illegal under the federal Animal Welfare Act (statute) that prohibits “animal fighting ventures” and is located in the United States Code at 7 U.S.C. §2156.

In Michigan, dogfighting is strictly prohibited and is considered a felony offense. Under Michigan law, it is illegal to (1) promote, conduct, or engage in dogfighting; (2) earn money from dogfighting; (3) use or allow the use of any property for the purposes of dogfighting; (4) possess any device or equipment intended for training or engaging dogs in fighting; (5) own or train a dog with the intention of having it participate in a dogfight; or (6) attend a dogfight as a spectator. The penalties for dogfighting in Michigan are severe and can include imprisonment, substantial fines, and community service. Additionally, those convicted may be required to pay restitution for the costs associated with housing and caring for the dogs involved. The federal Animal Welfare Act also criminalizes animal fighting ventures, which includes dogfighting, and provides for additional penalties that can apply to those involved in such activities.