Following a concerning rise in attacks and fatalities caused by XL Bully dogs, the Government has added the breed to the list of dogs banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. From 31 December 2023, it will be against the law to sell, breed or give away an XL Bully. It will also be illegal to have an XL Bully in public without a lead and muzzle, as well as abandon an XL Bully or let it stray. From 1 February 2024, it will be a criminal offence to own an XL Bully dog in England and Wales unless you have a Certificate of Exemption.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has published the official definition of an XL Bully dog with physical characteristics. The full list, as well as other guidance from Defra, can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/official-definition-of-an-xl-bully-dog/official-definition-of-an-xl-bully-dog
It may be the case that suspected XL Bully breed type does not need to fit the physical description perfectly. If a dog meets the minimum height measurements and a substantial number of the characteristics in the official definition, it could be considered an XL Bully breed type. This includes if it was not sold as an XL Bully. Defra has recommended taking a precautionary approach. For owners who are not sure if they have an XL Bully dog, they should comply with all new requirements for this dog type. This includes puppies that may grow up to be an XL Bully dog.
DS