American XL Bully: a Guide to New Legislation
Anybody keeping up to date with the news in recent months will have no doubt heard about the dog breed, the American XL Bully. With increased reports of injuries and deaths caused by dogs linked to XL Bully breeds, and at the end of 2023, the government announced it was going to add the American XL Bully to the list of banned breeds in the UK. If you are the owner of an American XL Bully or you are considering purchasing an American XL Bully, here is everything you need to know.
Is the American XL Bully a Banned Breed?
On 15 September 2023, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced the American XL Bully Dog will be banned, along with four other breeds: Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and the Fila Brasileiro.
What is the American XL Bully Definition?
As per the government guidelines, there are a number of different characteristics. While a suspected XL bully breed does not need to fit the physical description exactly, if the dog meets the minimum height requirements and a substantial number of characteristics it may be considered an XL Bully type, including if it was not sold as an XL Bully originally and if it is a crossbreed that looks like an XL Bully dog rather than any other type.
Some of the key characteristics include:
- A minimum height of 20 inches (51 cm) at the withers for adult males and 19 inches (48 cm) for adult females.
- The nose is large with well-opened nostrils.
- The upper arm length is about equal to the length of the shoulder blades and joined at a 35 to 45 angle to the ground.
The ban on American XL Bully dogs came into force on 31 December 2023, and as of 1 February 2024, it is illegal to own an XL Bully Dog in England and Wales without having a Certificate of Exemption.
What to Do if You Already Have an American XL Bully
If you are already in possession of an American XL Bully, it will be essential to apply for a certificate of exemption. Owners of exempted dogs must comply with specific conditions:
- Obtain a Certificate of Exemption, which you must show law enforcement or council members when requested (or within five days of the request).
- Keep your details up-to-date on the Index of Exempt Dogs, including changes in address or the death of your dog.
- Not breed your dog, sell it, give it away, rehome it, exchange it, allow dogs to stray, or abandon it.
As a dog owner, you will also need to be over the age of 16 and have third-party liability insurance, which is standard in the possibility that your dog may injure people. Your dog will also need to be microchipped, neutered, kept on a lead and muzzled in public spaces at all times, and kept in a secure location where they cannot escape.
Work with JD Solicitors if you need assistance with XL Bully Legislation
If you have any concerns about the XL Bully laws in the UK or if the XL Bully definition is not clear, it may be essential to work with people who have a legal understanding of this. No matter your concerns, you can contact our law experts at JD Solicitors:
Birmingham: 0121 674 4100
Willenhall: 01902 632 123
Emergency line: 07971 194 042
