In England and Wales, American Bully XLs newly classified as prohibited dogs

Starting from 1 February next year, American bully XLs will be added to the list of banned dogs in England and Wales. This means that owning one without an exemption will be illegal. Additionally, from January, these dogs will have to be muzzled and on a lead when in public. Owners will have a longer deadline to ensure their dogs are neutered and microchipped. The decision to ban the breed comes after a series of attacks involving American bully XLs, although owners argue that these dogs are lovable pets. The new rules also state that from 31 December 2023, it will be against the law to sell, abandon, breed, or give away an American bully XL. These dogs must also be on a lead and wearing a muzzle when in public. The guidance is similar to the restrictions placed on four other banned breeds under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. The new rules from Defra also provide a definition of the American Bully XL, which is not recognized as a breed by the Kennel Club in the UK. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak made the decision to ban the breed following a series of incidents, including a man who died after a suspected attack by an American bully XL. The ban does not apply to Northern Ireland or Scotland where similar breeds are already banned. However, if Scottish ministers agree, the ban will be extended to Scotland. Implementing a ban on American bully XLs in Northern Ireland would require a separate change to legislation. The UK's chief veterinary officer clarified that there would not be a cull of these dogs but rather guidelines to allow owners to keep them under certain conditions. To keep these dogs legally, owners must apply to register their pets on the Index of Exempted Dogs and pay a fee. The current exemption scheme for banned breeds allows for an exemption if a court determines that the dogs do not pose a danger to the public and their owners are deemed suitable to own such a dog. According to government data, there are approximately 3,500 banned dogs living legally in England, Scotland, and Wales under this scheme. Before receiving an exemption, these dogs must be neutered, microchipped, and have third party insurance. They must also be kept on a lead and muzzle when in public. The Dangerous Dogs Act grants the government the authority to ban any breed that appears to be bred for fighting or displays characteristics of such a type. Police have the power to seize any prohibited dog found in a public place. Although many animal charities oppose breed-specific bans, arguing that the root issue lies with unscrupulous breeders and irresponsible owners, the government has decided to implement a ban on American bully XLs.