XL Bully ban comes into force at end of year
Breed added to list of banned dogs
Owners of XL Bully breed dogs are being reminded of laws that come into force at the end of the year.
The government has added the breed to the list of dogs banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 following the concerning rise in attacks and fatalities caused by XL Bully dogs.
From 31 December 2023 it will be against the law to sell, abandon, give away or breed from an XL Bully dog - and from 1 February 2024 it will be a criminal offence to own an XL Bully in England and Wales unless owners have a Certificate of Exemption. To keep an XL Bully dog owners must also ensure that it is microchipped, kept on a lead and muzzled at all times when in public, kept in a secure place so it cannot escape, and is neutered.
The police have the enforcement role when dealing with banned breeds and any reports relating to the XL Bullies should go to them – the Council only become involved if we collect stray dogs that may be of the XL Bully breed.
There are no breeding establishments in the Borough , and it is unclear how many XL Bully owners live locally.
You can find out more at Prepare for the ban on XL Bully dogs - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)