Overview
What's the situation?
XL Bully-type dogs have been officially banned in England and Wales. Starting from 1 February 2024, ownership will be illegal unless an exemption has been applied for and granted. They must also be on a lead and muzzled when in public. The law to sell, breed from, abandon, or give away an XL Bully came into force on 31 December 2023.
If an XL Bully in England or Wales is less than a year old by 31 January 2024, it needs to be neutered by the end of 2024. If older, neutering must be done by 30 June.
In Scotland, selling, breeding, abandoning or exchanging XL Bully dogs became illegal on 23 February 2024, and they must always be leashed and muzzled in public. After 31 July, you'll need an exemption certificate to own one, and breaking this law could lead to six months in jail or a fine of up to £5,000. The Scottish government has not yet released information on its exemption process or when XL Bully dogs must be neutered by, but this is expected soon.
A decision on whether to ban XL Bully dogs in Northern Ireland will be announced soon.
Is it illegal to own an XL Bully?
What is an XL Bully-type dog?
What should I do if I own an XL Bully?
How do I know if my dog is classed as an XL Bully?
What are the rules for exempt dogs?
Medically reviewed by
Published on 21/09/2023 • Reviewed on 21/05/2024