The English and Welsh governments have announced that American bully XLs will be added to the list of banned dogs from February 1st, 2023. While the ban is only for these two countries, Scottish authorities are looking into whether to apply the same rule. The announcement is in response to recent news of American bully XLs being responsible for several dog attacks. The new rules require owners to have their dogs neutered and microchipped by a specific date or face penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Defra’s new guidelines also define American Bully XL dogs as “large dogs with a muscular body and blocky head, suggesting great strength and power for its size.” However, they are not recognized as an established breed by the Kennel Club in the UK. The government has clarified that the rules are similar to the ones in place for four breeds already banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991: the American pit bull terrier, the Japanese tosa, the Dogo Argentinos, and the Fila Brazileiro.
While animal charities have voiced their opposition to the ban, the government claims that “the problem lies with owners.” According to a coalition of animal charities that includes Battersea, Blue Cross, the Dogs Trust, the Scottish SPCA, the Kennel Club, and Hope Rescue, breed-specific bans have been proven to be ineffective. They suggest that the government must address the root cause, which they argue are unscrupulous breeders who prioritize profit over the dogs’ welfare.
The ban will require owners to register their American bully XL pets on the Index of Exempted Dogs to keep them under certain conditions. Applications are subject to strict conditions, including neutering and microchipping, and the payment of a £92.40 application fee to cover administration costs. The exemption is only granted if a court is satisfied that the dog doesn’t pose a danger to the public, and its owner is considered a fit and proper person to own that type of dog
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