§ 76-13-205 — Dog fighting.

(1) Terms defined in Sections 76-1-101.5, 76-13-101, and 76-13-201 apply to this section.
(2) An actor commits dog fighting if the actor:
(2)(a) owns, possesses, keeps, or trains a dog with the intent to engage the dog in an exhibition of fighting with another dog;
(2)(b) causes a dog to fight with another dog or causes a dog to injure another dog for amusement or gain;
(2)(c) ties, attaches, or fastens any live animal to a machine or device propelled by any power, for the purpose of causing the animal to be pursued by a dog;
(2)(d) permits or allows any act that violates Subsection (2)(a), (b), or (c) on any premises under the actor's charge; or
(2)(e) controls, aids, or abets any act that violates Subsection (2)(a), (b), or (c).
(3) (3)(a) A violation of Subsection (2) is a third degree felony.
(3)(b) A fine imposed for a violation of Subsection (2) may not exceed $25,000.
(4) Possession of a breaking stick, treadmill, wheel, hot walker, cat mill, cat walker, jenni, or other paraphernalia, together with evidence that the paraphernalia is being used or is intended for use in the unlawful training of a dog to fight with another dog, together with the possession of any such dog, is prima facie evidence of violation of Subsection (2)(b) or (c).
(5) Nothing in this section prohibits any of the following:
(5)(a) the use of dogs for management of livestock by the owner, the owner's employees or agents, or any other person in the lawful custody of livestock;
(5)(b) the use of dogs for hunting; or
(5)(c) the training of dogs or the possession or use of equipment in the training of dogs for any purpose not prohibited by law.

Legislative History

Renumbered and Amended by Chapter 173, 2025 General Session