Dog owners are being warned of a new rule coming into force in November that will affect thousands of households. From November 1, it will be illegal to leave a child under 12 in close contact with an XL Bully dog without adult supervision.
The restriction applies to private settings such as homes or gardens and affects pet owners who hold a valid certificate of exemption to own the breed. Those who breach the law face fines of up to £5,000, a six-month prison sentence, and could even have their dogs seized.
Why the rule is being introduced
The new rule follows a rise in dog attacks, including a series of attacks on young children by XL Bullies. Last year, a 10-year-old girl and a 9-month-old baby died after being mauled by family pets.
At the time the policy was made two years ago, there were more than 50,000 registered XL Bullies in the UK. However, actual numbers are now believed to be higher due to illegal breeding and sales.
Other legal obligations for owners
Owners must also keep the dog muzzled and on a lead in public places at all times, with the handler being at least 16 years old. The dog must be kept in secure conditions to prevent it from escaping, and owners must produce evidence of the certificate if asked by the police.
Without a valid exemption, it is illegal to own, possess, sell or abandon an XL Bully in England and Wales. It is also illegal to own a number of other "dangerous breeds" in the UK, including Pit Bull Terriers, Japanese Tosa Inus and a Dogo Argentino.
Background to the ban
Ownership of XL Bullies – an American pitbull-type breed – has been restricted under the Dangerous Dogs Act since 1991, and it became a criminal offence to own the breed without an exemption certificate on February 1, 2024.
