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Ban on unregistered XL Bully dogs now in force 

It is now illegal to own an XL Bully dog unless it is registered and complies with strict rules including being neutered and muzzled in public

The ban on XL Bully dogs is now in force, making it illegal to own an unregistered XL Bully dog from 1 February 2024. This delivers on the government’s pledge to take quick and decisive action to protect the public from devastating dog attacks by adding the breed type to the list of dangerous dogs.

The decision was made following a concerning rise in fatal dog attacks involving the XL Bully breed type. Up until 2021, there were around three fatalities per year. There have been 23 since the start of 2021, with the XL Bully being involved in many of these tragic attacks.

Anyone found possessing these dangerous dogs and not meeting the strict rules will have their dog seized and face prosecution and a criminal record.

Environment secretary Steve Barclay said: “The ban on XL Bullies is now in place, meaning it is illegal to own one of these dogs unless it has been registered. We have delivered our pledge to bring in this important measure to protect public safety, and we expect all XL Bully owners to comply with the strict conditions.”

In order to safely manage the existing population of these dogs, owners of XL Bully dogs must register their dogs and make sure they comply with strict rules. This includes having them microchipped, kept on a lead, and muzzled when in public. To ensure these dogs cannot continue breeding, they must also be neutered. For most dogs, this will be by 30 June; for dogs under one year old, this should be by the end of 2024.

The government will continue supporting the police to ensure the ban is effectively enforced, and ministers met with police chiefs this week to discuss their preparations to implement the ban.

The ban applies to England and Wales. The Scottish government has also announced they will bring forward an XL Bully ban.

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