XL Bully ban a 'failure' says RSPCA Cymru
New RSPCA data reveals how many dogs have been seized and euthanised in Wales since the ban
The XL bully dog was banned by the UK Government in 2023 where it became illegal to breed, sell, advertise or give away an XL bully.
By 1 February 2024, it became an offence to own an XL bully dog at all, without a valid exemption certificate.
The RSPCA says they want UK Government Ministers to commit to a full and in depth review of dog control, including the Dangerous Dogs Act.
The charity is urging politicians to 'prioritise an approach that encourages responsible dog ownership in the nation’s communities - rather than banning dogs based purely on how they look'.
Stats revealed by RSPCA Cymru show how many dogs have been seized and euthanised in Wales since the ban.
How many dogs have been seized by Welsh police forces:
- Dyfed-Powys Police have seized 23 and euthanised 5 dogs.
- Gwent Police have seized 26 and euthanised 29
- North Wales Police have seized 43 and euthanised 19
- South Wales Police did not submit statistics to the RSPCA
"This data paints a predictable and depressing picture": RSPCA
Dr Samantha Gaines, Head of Companion Animals at the RSPCA, said:
"This data paints a predictable and depressing picture - with the change in legislation meaning high numbers of XL bully dogs are being seized and put to sleep.
"Many of these dogs will have been much-loved family pets; their existence made illegal by a change of legislation focussed purely on how a dog looks rather than their behaviour."
The ban was designed to ensure public safety and requires owners to comply with strict requirements on muzzling and keeping their dog on a lead when in public.
"I urge all owners of XL Bullies to continue following the rule": UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer
Dr Christine Middlemiss is the UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer, she says:
"Dog owners must make sure that they choose dogs that fit into their home, their family, and their lifestyle and that they understand the costs involved and can train and socialise their dogs properly.
"The ban continues to enjoy high levels of public support and owners are expected to comply with these requirements.
"I urge all owners of XL Bullies to continue following the rules which have been put in place for public safety".
A UK Government spokesperson said:
“The ban on XL Bullies is there to protect public safety and we expect all XL Bully owners to comply with the strict conditions.
“We will continue to encourage responsible dog ownership across all breeds of dog and to consider whether the current dog control rules are sufficient to ensure communities are protected.”