New laws banning XL Bully breed come into force today
They've been added to the dangerous dogs list
Last updated 31st Dec 2023
The American XL Bully breed has officially been banned in England and Wales from today.
The Government have added the breed to the list of dogs banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act.
Under the new rules, it will be illegal to breed, sell, rehome or abandon XL Bully.
Owners of XL Bullies will have to keep their dog on a lead and muzzled in public.
As well, as getting them neutered before June 2024.
The Government’s reason behind the ban is to "protect the public following a concerning rise in fatal attacks."
The announcement first came in September, after Ian Price was mauled to death by two XL Bullies in Stonnall.
From February, 1, 2024, it will then become illegal to own an XL Bully dog if it is not registered on the Index of Exempted Dogs. .
Owners without a Certificate of Exemption face a criminal record and an unlimited fine if they are found to be in possession of an XL Bully type, and their dog could be seized.
Hannah Molloy is a dog behavioural expert from the West Midlands, she said: "We would rather see that better measures were brought forward like a dog licence for all dog owners and better responsible dog ownership measures and training be put in place, instead of banning one breed of dog.
"Unfortunately, the country has become really fearful that they would match type, and the time is ticking to re-home these dogs."
Owners can access the most up to date information on what action they need to take here.