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 Pennsylvania, dogfighting is considered a serious criminal offense under the state's anti-cruelty laws. Specifically, under 18 Pa.C.S. § 5511, it is illegal to engage in dogfighting, and the law covers a range of activities associated with the practice. This includes owning, possessing, keeping, or training any animal for the purpose of engaging in fighting, as well as using or permitting any premises for dogfighting. Additionally, it is unlawful to be involved in any way with the earnings of dogfighting, or to possess any device or equipment intended for training or encouraging dogs to fight. The penalties for dogfighting in Pennsylvania can be severe, with those convicted facing felony charges. This aligns with federal law under the Animal Welfare Act, which also prohibits animal fighting ventures, including dogfighting, as outlined in 7 U.S.C. § 2156. Both state and federal laws reflect a strong stance against the practice of dogfighting, recognizing it as a form of animal cruelty and providing for significant legal consequences for those found guilty of participating in or facilitating such activities.