Is it legal to own an XL Bully in the UK?

 

There has been much coverage of this topic and on the new laws surrounding XL Bully dogs in the UK.

Currently, there are only laws restricting ownership of XL Bullies in England, Wales and Scotland. Northern Ireland have announced that their laws come into effect from 1st October 2024.

In this, Is it legal to, we provide a reminder of what you need to know.

 

How does the government determine whether my dog meets the criteria of an XL Bully?

 

Many concerns have been raised by charities over the criterium of identifying an XL Bully, as the criteria is quite broad and may be applicable to other breeds. The ‘general impression’ provided by the government reads as follows:

“Large dog with a muscular body and blocky head, suggesting great strength and power for its size. Powerfully built individual.”

 

Are there more details on the identification as my dog is not an XL Bully but meets that description?

 

There are more details about the identification on the breed on the government website e.g. their height ranges between 48cm – 51cm etc.

We advise that you familiarise yourself with these descriptions, in case you are ever questioned by authorities.

 

What are the new restrictions?

 

• Your dog must be on a lead and muzzled at all times when in public.
• Your house and garden must be secured to stop your dog from escaping.
• Your dog must be microchipped and neutered.
• You must own a Certificate of Exemption and provide this to authorities within five days of their request.
• You can no longer sell, abandon, give away, rehome or breed an XL Bully.

 

My dog is less than a year old, and therefore not neutered yet, what are my options?

 

If your puppy is at least seven months old, but less than 12 months old, you have until 31 December 2024 to have them neutered.

If your puppy is less than seven months old, you have until 30 June 2025.

 

How we can help

 

We are very experienced in dealing with dangerous dog cases, both acting for claimants and defending owners accused of having a dangerous dog.

If you require any assistance, please contact our Personal Injury or Crime teams who will be happy to help.

 

This article was produced on the 4th September 2024 by our Crime & Business Defence team for information purposes only and should not be construed or relied upon as specific legal advice.