What is the definition of an XL Bully?

The government has announced the official definition of an XL Bully type dog: Official definition of an XL Bully dog - GOV.UK. The official definition involves checking a dog’s physical characteristics to determine whether they fit the ‘type’. The government advice for owners in both England and Wales is to take a precautionary approach – this means if you are unsure if you have an XL Bully dog, you should comply with all the new requirements for this dog type.

How will XL Bullies be typed?

The Government has determined the physical characteristics which will decide if a dog fits the ‘breed type’ of the XL Bully in England and Wales. They have shared DNA or simply what owners were told their dog was when they were bought or rehomed will not count as evidence of breed. However, they have confirmed that there are other established breeds, such as those recognised by the UK Kennel Club, that may meet some of the characteristics of the XL Bully breed type – but these breeds are not covered by the ban.

These physical characteristics can all be found here: Check if a dog is an XL Bully - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).

Owners in both England and Wales are solely responsible for determining if their dog is classified as an XL Bully type or not. We’d recommend concerned dog owners contact their local police force Dog Legislation Officer (DLO) if they need advice about how to check if their dog fits the type of an XL Bully.

Is the XL Bully ban just in England and Wales?

Currently the XL Bully ban only applies to England and Wales, however on 11 January 2024 the Scottish Government announced a ban will be coming into force in Scotland. We do not yet have any further information about this, but will keep our website updated with the latest news as it is announced.

When is Scotland banning XL Bullies?

On 11 January 2024, First Minister, Humza Yousaf announced that the Scottish Government will introduce the XL Bully ban in Scotland and will mirror the measures that have been introduced in England and Wales.

We do not yet have any further information but will keep our website updated with the latest news as it is announced.

How much is it going to cost me to exempt my dog?

In both England and Wales, the cost to apply for a Certificate of Exemption is £92.40, and then there may be further costs associated with ensuring your dog meets the requirements set out in the exemption. Dogs need to be neutered and microchipped, and the cost will slightly vary depending on your vet. Dogs will also need to be muzzled at all times when out in public, and the cost of a muzzle can vary too.

What if I disagree with the decision to ban XL’s?

The legislation came into force in both England and Wales on 31 December 2023 and must be followed. All owners of dogs deemed to fit the XL Bully type will now need to follow the guidance. Owners found not complying with the legislation face a criminal record and an unlimited fine if they are found to be in possession of an XL Bully type without a Certificate of Exemption, and their dog could be seized.

My XL Bully has already been neutered – what do I need to do?

If your dog has already been neutered, you and your vet will need to fill out a confirmation of neutering form. Please contact your vet to discuss the process. The deadlines the form must be returned to Defra by are:

• 31 December 2024 for dogs less than one year old on 31 January 2024
• 30 June 2024 for dogs more than one year old on 31 January 2024

What if I want to apply for a Certificate of Exemption but my XL Bully can’t be neutered as per vet advice?

We’d recommend discussing this further with your vet, who will be able to give more advice based on your dog's individual situation. Or if you live in England or Wales, you can contact your local police force Dog Legislation Officer (DLO) or seek advice by emailing the government’s Companion Animal Welfare Team: dogsindex@defra.gov.uk.

What if I want to apply for a Certificate of Exemption but my XL Bully can’t be microchipped as per vet advice?

If you live in England or Wales and a vet certifies that your dog is unfit to have a microchip for a period of time, you must send a copy of the veterinary certificate by email or by post, so it is with Defra by 31 March 2024 (postal timelines will need to be factored in.) You must then arrange to have your dog microchipped and provide the microchip number to Defra within 28 days of the expiry date of the veterinary certificate. Speak with your vet for more information about your dog.

Who can decide whether or not to apply for an Exemption?

The Government has announced it is the sole responsibility of owners to use the official definition and guidance to determine if their dog is or isn’t within the scope of the ban. You can find the official definition of an XL Bully dog here: Official definition of an XL Bully dog - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). If you believe your dog fits the definition of an XL Bully, you will need to apply for a Certificate of Exemption by 31 January 2024.

We’d recommend concerned dog owners contact their local police force Dog Legislation Officer (DLO) or seek advice by emailing the government’s Companion Animal Welfare Team: dogsindex@defra.gov.uk.

Does PDSA agree with the XL Bully ban?

PDSA’s position on the Dangerous Dogs Act remains unchanged; breed specific legislation is ineffective because it has not resulted in a reduction of dog bites or human deaths.

Whilst we agree urgent action is needed to protect the public from dangerous dogs, we're disappointed the Government are pushing ahead with breed specific legislation. We'd like to see the Government focus on much needed extensive reform of the Dangerous Dogs Act, as we do not believe that adding ‘XL Bully’ dogs to the list of banned breeds will be an effective way of protecting the public.

Will PDSA continue to treat XL Bullies?

We will continue to provide our usual care to eligible owners and their pets.

Can PDSA help with the costs associated with the XL Bully ban?

We know that times are tough for lots of families, with the cost of living crisis still hitting many hard. As a charity, our resources are limited, but we remain here to support all owners however we can. If you aren’t already a registered PDSA client, please use our online eligibility checker: Eligibility - PDSA

What does PDSA mean when they mention ‘Bully breeds’, will other breeds be impacted?

We mention Bully breeds as we’re concerned that some of the larger Bully breeds could potentially fall under the Governments hugely subjective definition of an XL Bully type. Any dog owner unsure of whether their dog would be considered an XL Bully has been advised by the Government to err on the side of caution and comply with the legislation. We’d recommend concerned dog owners contact their local police force Dog Legislation Officer (DLO) or seek advice by emailing the government’s Companion Animal Welfare Team: dogsindex@defra.gov.uk.