XL bully owners urged to register before next week’s ban
“Please do not risk leaving it to the last minute if you want to keep your dog, you should register it now” – Christine Middlemiss.
The UK’s chief veterinary officer is urging owners of XL bully dogs in England and Wales to register their dog now before the ban on the breed comes into force next week.
From 1 February, it will be illegal to own an XL bully without a Certificate of Exemption. Anyone found breaking the law could face an unlimited fine.
Owners have until noon on Wednesday, 31 January to register their dog for an exemption , if they have not already done so. According to Government figures, more than 30,000 dogs have been registered so far.
Any owner not wishing to register their XL bully is legally obliged to arrange to have the dog euthanised by 31 January, as it is now illegal to sell, abandon, or give away an XL bully. The government is offering compensation to cover the cost.
Since 31 December 2023, owners of XL bully dogs have also had to keep their dog muzzled and on a lead when in public.
Despite criticism of breed-specific legislation from animal welfare and veterinary organisations, the government has pushed ahead with the ban under the Dangerous Dogs Act following a series of dog attacks.
The rules apply to England and Wales. The Scottish government has announced that it will introduce similar legislation, but has yet to set a date for when it will come into force.
Christine Middlemiss, the UK’s chief veterinary officer, said: “Please do not risk leaving it to the last minute if you want to keep your dog, you should register it now.
“If you are unsure if your dog is an XL bully or whether any puppies may grow up to be of this dog type, you should comply with the relevant requirements and restrictions.”
The government has made guidance on how to prepare for the ban available online.
Image © Shutterstock
BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.
