We understand that the Government’s ban on XL Bully type dogs is a very unsettling and worrying time for XL Bully type dog owners, adopters, rehoming centres and vets alike, and that many XL bully type pet owners have questions about what it may mean for them.
What is the government’s proposal?
On Tuesday 31 October, the Government announced that the XL Bully type dog has been added to the list of dogs banned in England and Wales, you can see more information on the government’s website here.
They have set out the following timeline and criteria for XL bully type dog’s owners to follow:
- From 31 December 2023 breeding, selling, advertising, rehoming, abandoning and allowing an XL Bully dog to stray will be illegal. From this date, these dogs must be kept on a lead and muzzled in public by law, and kept in a secure environment so they can’t escape.
- From 1 February 2024, it will then become illegal to own an XL Bully dog if it is not registered on the Index of Exempted Dogs – you will need to have applied for a certificate of Exemption by 12 noon on 31 January 2024. See the information on the government’s website for how to apply for this certificate here.
How can I tell if my dog will be classified as an XL Bully type?
The Government has developed an official definition of an XL Bully. It includes details on height, shape and other features, you can see the official definition here.
Information, advice and support for XL Bully dog owners
If you are an XL Bully dog owner, we highly recommend taking a look at the Dog Trust’s website, they have excellent information, advice and practical support to help XL Bully owners prepare for the upcoming ban; from muzzle training to third party insurance. Visit their support for XL Bully owners page on their website here.
