American XL bully ban: what it means for owners

From 1 February 2024 it will be a criminal offence to own an XL bully type dog unless you have a Certificate of Exemption. The government has published advice on what you can do to prepare for the ban. You can also view guidance for XL bully owners from the RSPCA.

The transition period for owners of XL bully dog breeds began on 14 November 2023. During the transition period, which runs until 31 January 2024, owners who wish to keep their dogs must apply to an exemption scheme.

From 31 December 2023 it will also be against the law to:

• sell an XL bully dog
• abandon an XL bully dog or let it stray
• give away an XL bully dog
• breed from an XL bully dog
• have an XL bully in public without a lead and muzzle