• The American Bully XL type dog has been added to the banned breeds list in England and Wales.
• From 31 December 2023, it will be illegal to breed, sell, advertise, rehome, abandon or allow an American Bully XL dog to stray.
• From 1 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.

What You Need to Do

• If you own an American Bully XL type dog, you must ensure they are:
  • Microchipped
  • Neutered (If your dog is less than one year old on 31 January 2024, they must be neutered by 31 December 2024. If your dog is older than one year old on 31 January 2024, they must be neutered by 30 June 2024.)
  • Kept on a lead and muzzled at all times when in public
  • Kept in a secure place so that they can’t escape.

• You must also:

  • Have third party liability insurance against your dog injuring other people
  • Be aged over 16
  • Show the Certificate of Exemption when asked by a police officer or council dog warden, either at the time or within 5 days
  • Let the Index of Exempt Dogs know if you change address, or if your dog dies.
• You can apply for a Certificate of Exemption via the Government’s website. The deadline for applications is 12 noon on 31 January 2024.

More Information

• You can find more information about the ban on the Government’s website: Prepare for the ban on XL Bully dogs
• You can also contact Dogs Trust for support and advice.