We understand that the looming government’s announcement to ban American Bully XL dogs is very worrying. We do not know the details of the government proposals, but as soon as do, we will release an update to you and support any XL bully owners the best way we can.
In the meantime, we are continuing to support American Bully XL dogs and their owners with our free socialisation clinics, muzzle training, sizing, and advice. Just contact the practice to book an appointment, or click here to find out more.
What we do know so far?
On Friday 15 September, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced that the American Bully XL type dog will be added to the breed types banned in the UK by the end of 2023.
This is not currently law — the Government is working to define the breed type and implement the plan by the end of the year.
What Is An XL Bully?
An American bully XL, known as an XL bully, is the largest of the American bully types. They are not a registered breed with the Kennel Club in the UK and are a type of dog that has been bred from several different dog breeds.
Identifying the type of American Bully is currently very difficult, especially when there are several different varieties of American Bully, as well as many other similar-looking breeds. The government will develop breed standards to identify dogs affected by the ban.
is it illegal for me to own an XL Bully?
No, it is currently not illegal to own an American Bully XL, also known as XL Bully. If you own a Bully XL, continue to care for your dog as usual. We know it’s worrying but let’s not panic.
Before the ban comes into force, the government will work with experts so responsible owners can keep their dogs if they register them and comply with a series of restrictions. It is important to stay up to date with government recommendations and be willing to respect government restrictions.
How Will I Know If My Dog Is Classed As An XL Bully?
The law is concerned with the type of dog rather than the breed, and prohibited types are determined based on appearance rather than breed name, genetics (DNA) or their origin. The government is committed to working with experts to determine the American Bully XL category.
I Own An American XL Bully, What Should I Do?
First of all, try and stay calm, don’t panic, and don’t make any hasty decisions. They are not banned yet and the Government has announced there will be an amnesty period so that owners will have time to prepare to register their dogs.
When a ban comes into force American Bully XL owners will need to apply for a Certificate of Exemption to keep their dogs, give evidence that their dog is not a danger to the public, and comply with rules around banned breed types.
Banned Dogs In The UK
In the UK, it’s against the law to own certain types of dogs. These are the:
- Pit Bull Terrier
- Japanese Tosa
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
It’s also against the law to:
- sell a banned dog
- abandon a banned dog
- give away a banned dog
- breed from a banned dog
Whether your dog is a banned type depends on what it looks like, rather than its breed or name.
If you own a currently banned breed type and don’t have a certificate of exemption to keep them, the police can seize the dog and keep them, even if they’re not acting dangerously and no complaint has been made. A court process is then needed to determine if the dog poses a danger to the public and if the owner can apply for an exemption certificate.
American Bully XL dogs are not currently banned, so these laws don’t apply yet.
We Are Here For You
Our incredible nurses are here to provide any owner of an American XL Bully free socialisation clinics.
You can bring your XL Bully along as many times as you need to get them used to people and a veterinary setting. We can also provide muzzle training and muzzle sizing.
Our nurses will advise you with any concerns you may have too!