The Government have confirmed that American XL Bully dogs will be banned by the end of the year.
This follows the vicious attacks that involved XL Bullies that happened previously this year. Since 2021, 11 people have died in XL Bully related attacks.
They have now been added to the list of banned dogs in England and Wales, under the dangerous dog act.
Ministers have said that a £200 compensation fee will be offered to XL Bully owners who decide to have their pets put down as result of the ban.
Adam Barr, 32, from Darlington owns three XL Bully dogs and said, “There trying to ban an XL bully like breed for attacking people, it’s not XL’s that are attacking people. I think it’s a complete wrong opinion and there just destroying a breed for no reason.”
He also stated, “I’ll do whatever it takes to keep my dogs, whether that be get a licence or do a course to prove I can look after them.”
From December 31 2023, XL Bully dogs must be muzzled and on a lead in public. Then from February 1 2024 it will be illegal to own an XL Bully in England without exemption.
Covea insurance worker Grace Coffey said, “We’ve had many situations before where people have claimed for treatment for their dog or it’s been attacked, if we assess it and look into the claim and find out it’s an XL Bully breed we won’t cover it at all.”
Breeders have been told to stop breeding the dogs in preparation for the law to change.
Owners will face having their dog seized or a fine if they fail to comply.
