American Bully XL Ban

On 15 September 2023 the Prime Minister announced plans to ban American Bully XLs in the UK.

From 31 December 2023 it will be against the law to: breed, sell, abandon, give away, or allow an XL Bully 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.

Please note: The photos displayed at the top of this page feature ‘Tommy’, an adored Xl Bully adopted from WARS. Tommy possesses an excellent temperament with both people and dogs. With a loving and responsible family, he lives in harmony and contentment.

What This Means for Owners

If you currently own an XL Bully, from 31 December 2023 you will be required to keep your dog on a lead and muzzled when walking in public. You’ll also need apply for the government’s exemption scheme by 31 January 2024, which can be done HERE.

From 1 February 2024 it will be illegal to own an XL Bully without a certificate of exemption. You must do the following to comply:

  • Have your dog neutered and microchipped.
  • Keep your dog muzzled in public, including in cars.
  • Keep your dog on a lead at all times, and in a secure space to avoid it escaping.
  • Have third party liability insurance. You can do this HERE with the Dogs Trust and their companion care scheme.

What is an XL Bully?

This ‘type’ of breed is not a kennel club registered or a general registered breed. They are formed from various crossings of other breeds of dogs, and are the largest of the American Bully types. For the government’s official definition of an XL Bully dog, please visit HERE.

 

Contact Your MP About the XL Bully Ban

Heartbreakingly, from the 31st of December 2023 we can no longer rehome XL Bullies, even if they are well socialised and behaved. Like many other charities, we are concerned about the government’s new legislation, and encourage supporters to contact their MP, to highlight their concerns, via the Blue Cross support page HERE.