Government Bans XL Bully Dogs from End of 2023
From 31 December 2023, breeding, selling, advertising, rehoming, abandoning, or letting XL Bully dogs stray will be illegal in England and Wales. The Government has officially added the XL Bully breed to the Dangerous Dogs Act banned list, responding to a worrying spike in fatal attacks.
What the New XL Bully Laws Mean for Owners
- From Dec 31, 2023: It’s a crime to breed, sell, advertise, exchange, gift, rehome, abandon, or let your XL Bully roam freely.
- Dogs must be muzzled and kept on a lead in public.
- Breeders must stop mating these dogs immediately.
- From 1 February 2024: Owning an unregistered XL Bully will be illegal.
- Owners have until January 31, 2024, to register their dogs on the Index of Exempted Dogs.
- Registered dogs must be microchipped, neutered, muzzled, and kept on a lead.
- Puppies under one year must be neutered by the end of 2023; older dogs by end of June 2024.
- Failing to comply from February 1 could mean criminal charges, unlimited fines, and seizure of the dog.
Environment Secretary Hits Hard: “Taking Quick and Decisive Action”
“We are taking quick and decisive action to protect the public from tragic dog attacks and today I have added the XL Bully type to the list of dogs prohibited under the Dangerous Dogs Act,” said Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey.
“It will soon become a criminal offence to breed, sell, advertise, rehome, or abandon an XL Bully type dog. They must also be kept on a lead and muzzled in public. Eventually, owning one without an exemption will also be outlawed.”
“We’ll continue working closely with police, vets, and animal welfare groups to enforce these vital measures.”
Owners Face Tough Choices and Possible Compensation
Owners wishing to keep their dogs must register them and comply with strict rules. Those who don’t can face a criminal record, unlimited fines, and confiscation of their pet.
For some, euthanasia is an option, and compensation will be offered to help cover vet costs. Details for claims will be announced soon.
The Government has also published a clear definition of the XL Bully breed, created by a panel of experts from police, vets, local authorities, and welfare groups. This helps enforcement agencies identify these dogs and enforce the ban.
Stay updated and prepare for the ban at the official Government guide: Prepare for the ban on XL Bully dogs – GOV.UK.
Serious Consequences for Dangerous Dogs
Owners whose dogs are dangerously out of control are already breaking the law. Under the Dangerous Dogs Act, penalties can include up to 14 years in prison, banning orders, and euthanasia of the dog.
