It is generally a loving but strong-willed dog and has a reputation for being a fighting dog. It is not good in packs of other dogs and needs supervision around small children. This dog breed can be affectionate and, when trained and socialized, can become a loyal family pet.

In the early 19th century, in the United Kingdom, there was a desire to create strong fighting dogs for pit fighting, bull baiting, bear baiting and other aggressive type blood sports.