XL Bully dogs
On 15 September 2023 the Prime Minister announced plans to ban American Bully XL dogs in the UK
From 31 December 2023 it will be against the law to:
- sell an XL Bully dog
- abandon an XL Bully dog
- give away an XL Bully dog
- breed from an XL Bully dog
- have an XL Bully in public without a lead and muzzle
From 1 February 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.
Is it illegal for me to own an American Bully XL, and what should I do if I own one?
To keep an XL Bully dog, you must ensure it is:
- microchipped
- kept on a lead and muzzled at all times when in public
- kept in a secure place so it cannot escape
You will also need to neuter your dog. If your dog is less than one year old on 31 January 2024, it must be neutered by 31 December 2024. If your dog is older than one year old on 31 January 2024, it must be neutered by 30 June 2024. We recommend that you arrange for your dog to be neutered as soon as possible to ensure that you meet these deadlines.
As the owner, you must also:
- be over 16 years old
- take out insurance against your dog injuring other people - this is provided through Dogs Trust Membership
- be able to show the Certificate of Exemption when asked by a police officer or a council dog warden, either at the time or within 5 days.
If you are unsure, please check if your dog is an XL Bully on GOV.UK.
You can find out more and apply for a Certificate of Exemption on GOV.UK.
If you own an American Bully XL type dog, we recommend you start preparing by making sure your dog is:
What are the Council’s obligations?
Southwark will only collect stray dogs. You should contact the police if a dog poses an immediate risk to public safety or if there is a serious animal welfare concern.
Page last updated: 07 March 2024
