Gladiator Dogs

Book excerpt: From the author of The World of Fighting Dogs and Pit Bulls and Tenacious Guard Dogs comes this third and most impressive book to date, Gladiator Dogs. Bringing to life 13 breeds originally used as fighting dogs, Dr. Carl Semencic illustrates the history, characteristics and abilities of the world's toughest canines, and shares hundreds of great color photographs of top dogs sent by owners around the globe. The author does not fight dogs and does not condone dogfighting, but he is fascinated with the qualities and instincts of these fearless gladiator breeds. Gladiator Dogs is a valuable book that represents years of experience and research on these remarkable historical dogs. In addition to the author's favorite breed, the American Pit Bull Terrier, Dr. Semencic discusses other related breeds, such as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier, covering the differences and similarities between these bully cousins. A respected rare-breed authority and an accomplished world traveler, Dr. Semencic shares his firsthand experience with these dogs from his trips to the Canary Islands, South Africa, Europe, and more. Gladiator Dogs profiles many breeds that the author has introduced, mentored and promoted, including the American Bulldog, Canary Dog, South African Boerboel and Korean Jindo.