The American XL bully, a particularly large and muscular type of American bully dog, has become a focal point of new legislation in the UK and Ireland due to its association with severe attacks. Here’s an overview of the breed, the specifics of the ban, and the broader implications.
What is an American XL Bully?
The American XL bully is a variant of the American bully breed, characterized by its large size and muscular build. Key features include:
- Size and Build: Male XL bullies typically stand about 20 inches (51 cm) high at the shoulder, with females being slightly smaller. They have a powerful, muscular body and a blocky head.
- Strength of Bite: XL bullies are known for their strong jaws, which can cause severe injuries such as broken bones and shredded skin. According to NHS consultant Richard Baker, these dogs’ bites result in crushing or tearing injuries.
How Dangerous Are They?
The American XL bully’s reputation for aggression is linked to several factors:
- Dog Attacks: In the first nine months of 2023, there were 16 deaths from dog attacks, a significant increase from the previous year. Although exact figures for XL bully attacks are not available, there have been several fatal incidents involving this breed.
- Notable Fatalities: Cases include the deaths of Angeline Mahal, Esther Martin, Ian Langley, Ian Price, Ann Dunn, Bella-Rae Birch, and Jack Lis.
How Does the Ban Work?
The ban on American XL bullies involves various regulations across the UK and Ireland:
- England and Wales:
- Restrictions: Since 31 December 2023, it is illegal to sell, give away, abandon, or breed XL bullies. From 1 February 2024, owning an XL bully without an exemption certificate is a criminal offense.
- Exemption Requirements: Owners must apply for an exemption, obtain insurance, microchip their dog, and pay a £92.40 fee. Exempt dogs must be kept securely, muzzled, and leashed in public, with older dogs needing to be neutered by 30 June or by the end of 2024 for dogs under one year.
- Euthanasia: Dogs not registered for exemption had to be euthanized by 31 January 2024. The government has processed 395 euthanasia compensation claims.
- Scotland:
- Current Regulations: Since 23 February 2024, XL bullies must be muzzled and leashed in public. It is illegal to abandon, rehome, sell, or transfer ownership.
- Exemption Deadline: Owners must apply for an exemption online by 31 July 2024. The requirements are similar to those in England and Wales.
- Northern Ireland:
- Current Regulations: Since 5 July 2024, XL bullies must be muzzled and leashed in public, and it is illegal to abandon, rehome, or transfer ownership.
- Exemption Deadline: Owners must register for an exemption by 31 December 2024. Further details will be published before the deadline.
- Ireland:
- Upcoming Regulations: From 1 October 2024, importing, breeding, selling, and rehoming XL bullies will be prohibited. From 1 February 2025, it will be illegal to own an XL bully without an exemption certificate.
Why Do Some Charities Oppose the Ban?
Several charities and animal welfare organizations oppose breed-specific bans due to the following reasons:
- Ineffectiveness: Breed-specific legislation (BSL) often fails to reduce dog attacks or improve safety, targeting breeds rather than individual dogs’ behaviors and owner responsibility.
- Unfairness: The ban penalizes responsible owners and does not address underlying causes of aggression, which include factors like training and socialization.
- Call for Reform: The Dog Control Coalition advocates for a complete overhaul of the Dangerous Dogs Act, focusing on tougher penalties for owners who fail to control their dogs, irrespective of breed.
Other Banned Breeds Under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991
In addition to the American XL bully, the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 also bans the following breeds in the UK:
- American pit bull terrier
- Japanese tosa
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
FAQ
Q: What makes XL bullies more dangerous than other breeds? A: XL bullies have powerful jaws capable of inflicting severe injuries, including broken bones and shredded skin. Their bites are often described as crushing or tearing injuries.
Q: How many people have died from dog attacks in recent years? A: There were 16 fatalities from dog attacks in the first nine months of 2023, a significant increase from the previous year. Specific data on XL bully-related fatalities is not available.
Q: What are the new regulations for XL bullies in England and Wales? A: As of 31 December 2023, it is illegal to sell, give away, abandon, or breed XL bullies. From 1 February 2024, owning one without an exemption certificate is a criminal offense. Exempt dogs must be insured, microchipped, and kept securely, muzzled, and leashed in public.
Q: What is the exemption process for XL bullies in Scotland? A: Owners must apply for an exemption online by 31 July 2024. The process involves obtaining insurance, microchipping, and paying a fee. Exempt dogs must follow similar regulations as in England and Wales.
Q: Are there similar bans in other regions? A: Yes, Northern Ireland will have similar restrictions starting 5 July 2024, with an exemption deadline of 31 December 2024. Ireland will impose a ban on XL bullies from 1 October 2024, with an exemption requirement starting 1 February 2025.
Q: Why do some charities oppose breed-specific bans? A: Charities argue that breed-specific legislation is ineffective and unfair. They advocate for a broader approach to dog control, focusing on owner responsibility and dog behavior rather than banning specific breeds.
Q: Which other breeds are banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991? A: The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 also bans the American pit bull terrier, Japanese tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro in the UK.
