A canine behaviour expert has welcomed the new rules that came into force on November 1 requiring owners of banned breed dogs, including XL Bullies, to keep children under 12 away from their pets without adult supervision. Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, Pooch and Mutt's Canine Behaviour Expert, described the legislation as a “positive step towards reducing the alarming numbers of dog attacks” seen in recent years.
The ban, which took effect on November 1, applies to the five dog breeds banned in the UK: the XL Bully, the Pit Bull Terrier, the Japanese Tosa, the Dogo Argentino, and the Fila Brasileiro. Under the new law, owners must ensure that any child under 12 is not left in close contact with their dog in a private place, such as a home or garden, without appropriate adult supervision.
Why the rule matters
Gov.uk explains that the requirement exists because “young children, especially those under 12, are at higher risk of dog-related injuries in the home, where incidents often involve a dog they know. Children may behave in ways that some dogs find uncomfortable.” This includes sudden movements, loud noises and close contact.
Dr Scales-Theobald told the Mirror: “I'm pleased to hear of the UK government bringing in legislation requiring owners of exempted banned dog breeds to not leave children under 12 in close contact with the dog in a private place/home without adult supervision. I think it's a positive step towards reducing the alarming numbers of dog attacks we've experienced in the last few years.”
She added: “Although some owners may feel this law shouldn't apply to their own banned breed dog, I firmly believe where children are concerned, erring on the side of caution is best to keep children safe. Even children brought up around dogs can unknowingly act in ways to make a dog uncomfortable or distressed, which may provoke dog attacks.”
Practical advice for owners
Dr Scales-Theobald, who holds a PhD in Veterinary Medicine and Science specialising in canine behaviour and welfare, and works as a canine behaviour and nutrition consultant and a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Surrey, advised that separating the dog and child completely when no supervision is available is “really important”, using a different room or part of the house. She noted this could be challenging for dogs with separation anxiety.
She recommended using a baby gate or dog crate so the dog still feels included, but warned: “Caution should be exercised to ensure little hands aren't able to breach these barriers and access the dog that way.” She added that additional barriers may be required to create space, and that working on reducing the dog's separation anxiety with training and calming aids “will help everyone feel more relaxed.”
Recognising when a dog needs space
Gov.uk also urges all dog owners, regardless of breed or size, to understand the signs that their pet may need more space. Some dogs may be “more likely to react unexpectedly if they are stressed, unwell, overwhelmed or unable to move away from children.”
Adults should be alert to situations where a dog may need space and separate the child and dog where necessary. Examples include when the dog is resting or sleeping, eating or drinking, playing with or holding a toy, unwell, injured or recovering, overwhelmed by noise, movement or attention, trying to move away, or showing signs of discomfort. The full details of the November 1 dog ban are available on the gov.uk website.
