XL Bully ban

DEFRA have announced a ban on both the:

  • breeding of XL Bully type dogs
  • sale of all XL Bully type dogs

This came into effect on 1 January 2024.

Exemptions

Owners that already have one of these dogs must have an exemption certificate from the Government to keep the dog.

To comply, you will need to:

  1. Have had your dog neutered.
  2. Have had your dog microchipped.
  3. Have third party insurance.
  4. Keep your dog on a lead and muzzled in a public place (this includes your car).
  5. Keep your dog in a secured place so it cannot escape.

Further information can be found on the GOV.UK website.

It is against the law to:

  • sell an XL Bully dog
  • abandon an XL Bully dog or let it stray
  • give away an XL Bully dog
  • breed from an XL Bully dog
  • have an XL Bully in public without a lead and muzzle

Additional information

If you are not sure if your dog is an XL Bully type, then please have a read through the official definition.

Advice on training your dog to wear a muzzle can be found through the:

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