Law change for thousands of UK dog owners from next month

However, certain households may be legally entitled to keep a prohibited breed provided they hold a Certificate of Exemption. XL Bullies, for instance, were banned across the UK in February 2024. Despite this, tens of thousands of people are still believed to own an XL Bully - the largest variant of the American bully breed. The breed is characterised as large dogs "with a muscular body and blocky head, suggesting great strength and power". The prohibition was introduced following a succession of fatal attacks involving XL Bullies, including the tragic deaths of children.

Keeping an XL Bully without a valid Certificate of Exemption now constitutes a criminal offence - yet recent data reveals that upwards of 50,000 Certificates of Exemption have been issued for XL Bullies throughout the UK, affording those owners the legal right to retain their animals.

Nevertheless, stringent conditions must be adhered to for the entirety of the dog's life. Owners are obliged to keep the dog at the same address as the certificate holder, though the animal may be kept at an alternative address for no more than 30 days annually. Additionally, owners must notify the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) of any permanent address changes, inform Defra if the animal dies or is sent abroad, and ensure the dog wears a muzzle in all public areas. These animals must also remain on a lead in public locations - held securely by an individual aged at least 16 - and dogs must be housed in secure conditions preventing escape.

On November 1, new legislation will take effect. From that date, it will be illegal to leave a child under 12 in close proximity to an XL Bully, or any other prohibited breed, in a private location (such as a residence or garden), without adult oversight.

Younger children, especially those under 12, face heightened risk of dog-related harm within the home, where incidents frequently involve a known animal. Children may act in ways that certain dogs find distressing, including close proximity, abrupt movements, and producing loud sounds.

Irrespective of the legislation, the RSPCA recommends that children should never be left unattended with dogs, even if it's your own pet and they have never displayed aggressive behaviour previously.

Government guidance additionally indicates that dogs may be more prone to react unexpectedly if they are anxious, ill, overwhelmed or unable to retreat from children. Adults should remain alert to circumstances where a dog may require space, and "separate the child and dog where necessary."

The most effective approach to keeping dogs and children apart will vary depending on the layout of the home, the age and requirements of the child, as well as the needs of the dog. Any form of separation should ensure there is no physical contact between the child and the dog.

It is a criminal offence to own an XL Bully dog without a Certificate of Exemption. If you believe you own an XL Bully and have yet to apply for a Certificate of Exemption, you are advised to contact your local police force immediately.