Information for owners of XL Bully dogs

Published: 22 Dec 2023

From 1 February 2024 it will become illegal to own an XL Bully unless its owner applies for their animal to be registered on the index of Exempted Dogs, and complies with the rules by the end of January. There are conditions attached to any exemption – these include a requirement that the dog must be:

neutered
permanently identified with a microchip
muzzled and kept on a lead when in a public place
kept securely at home (i.e. ensure gardens are secure)
registered on the Index of Exempted Dogs and a certificate issued to the owner (you must notify of change of address or if the dog dies)
not taken out in public by anyone under 16 years of age

You must also show the certificate of exemption when asked by a police officer or Council Dog Warden, either at the same time or within five days. The owner must also take out (and renew annually) third-party insurance for their dog.