XL Bully type dogs included within the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991

The UK government announced on 31st October that the XL Bully type dogs are now included within the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, with measures coming into force in two stages. 

2 November, 2023

From 31st December 2023 it will be against the law to:

• Sell an XL Bully dog
• Abandon an XL Bully dog
• Give away an XL Bully dog
• Have an XL Bully in public without a lead and muzzle

From 1st February 2024 it will be a criminal offence to own an XL Bully in England and Wales unless you have a Certificate of Exemption for your dog.

To accompany this announcement, the Government released the following guidance on preparing for the ban on XL Bully dogs: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/prepare-for-the-ban-on-xl-bully-dogs

SRS would advise anyone concerned on this announcement to familiarise themselves with the guidance, particularly if you own or think you may own a dog which falls under the XL Bully conformation standard and take the necessary steps to ensure you comply with the new laws when they come into force.