![Yesterday, Defra released their official definition of an XL Bully, along with the restrictions and requirements that wi...](https://img3.voofla.com/075/667/681417730756673.jpg)
01/11/2023
Yesterday, Defra released their official definition of an XL Bully, along with the restrictions and requirements that will come into place on the 31st Dec. From 1 Feb 2024 it will be a criminal offence to own an XL Bully in England and Wales unless you have a Certificate of Exemption for your dog. The Scottish Government has yet to decide whether they will enforce the ban.
It's a really uncertain time for these dogs and a worrying time for owners. If you believe your dog is an XL Bully or could be considered as such, read through the requirements and reach out for support, if you are unsure about any training requirements.
We’ve added XL Bully type dogs to the list of breeds banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 🚫
From 31 December 2023 breeding, selling, advertising, rehoming, abandoning and allowing an XL Bully dog to stray will be illegal.
These dogs must also be on a lead and muzzled in public from 31 December.
If you wish to keep your XL Bully type dog, you have until the end of January to register them and comply with strict requirements.
Details on the exemption process will be provided in due course.
Read our guidance to prepare for the ban: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/prepare-for-the-ban-on-xl-bully-dogs