XL Bully Dogs

Preparing for the ban on XL Bully Dogs

As you are most likely aware, the sale, abandonment, allowing to stray, gifting, breeding, and rehoming of XL bully-type dogs will be banned from 31 December 2023 and it will also be illegal to have an XL bully-type dog in a public place after this date unless muzzled and on a lead.

Certificate of exemption

From 1 February 2024 ownership will be illegal unless they are exempted under the law.

To find out about how to apply for a Certificate of Exemption visit GOV.UK - prepare for the ban on XL Bully dog.

We are aware that the announcement will increase the burden on owners of XL bully-type dogs who will have to muzzle and keep their dogs on a lead as of January 2024, and they will have to adhere to further strict conditions if they decide to take their dog through exemption.

This includes microchipping, muzzling, neutering and keeping your dog in a secure place so they can't escape.

Some rescues and vet practices are offering free or low-cost microchipping and neutering services for XL Bullies. We would recommend contacting your vet to see if they are offering similar services or able to signpost you to any within your area.

Both the Dogs Trust and Blue Cross offer muzzling courses and you can contact them directly for further information.

You can access Dogs Trust website for extra information. To book on to a muzzling course or webinar visit Dogs Trust - Support for XL Bully owners. 

Dog breeders

Guidance published by the Government recommends XL bully-type dog breeders should stop all breeding activity now, as it will be a criminal offence to sell, transfer, exchange, gift or advertise these dogs from 31 December 2023.

Reporting an XL Bully issue

The police have the enforcement role when dealing with banned breeds and any reports relating to the XL Bullies should go to them.

Call the police on 101. If a dog is attacking a person or other animal call 999.

Further information

All the information we have now is what the Government has released so unfortunately, we cannot offer any further help or advice, but we will pass on any updates as soon as they are released.