XL Bully dogs
What you need to know
From 31 December 2023 it will 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.
From 1 February 2024 it will be a criminal offence to own an XL Bully dog in England and Wales unless your dog has a Certificate of Exemption.
Certificate of Exemption
The transition period from 14th November 2023 until 31 January 2024 enables owners who wish to keep their dogs to apply for a Certificate of Exemption. Guidance on the application process and the application form is available on the government's website.
Apply for a Certificate of Exemption to keep an XL Bully dog (opens new window)
After the 31st January 2024, owners without a Certificate of Exemption could receive a criminal record and an unlimited fine if they are found to be in possession of an XL Bully type.
Compensation
Alternatively, owners who choose to have their dog put to sleep must arrange to have this done by the 31st January 2024 and can apply for compensation, further details on how to apply for compensation can be accessed via the government's website.
Claim compensation for an XL Bully dog (opens new window)
Identifying XL Bully types
Local authority staff are unable to provide advice to members of the public on whether their individual dog may be an XL Bully and fall within the scope of the ban.
It will be for the owner or keeper to identify whether they think their dog may be in scope.
Examples of XL Bully breed types (opens new window)
Key dates and details relating to the banning of XL Bully type dogs are available on the government's 'Prepare for the ban on XL Bully dogs' webpage.
Stray and abandoned dogs
From 31st December 2023, it will be illegal to abandon an XL Bully dog or allow it to stray.
If you find a stray or abandoned dog of any breed, you should contact the council's dog welfare and enforcement service on 01744 676789 or email: environmentalhealth@sthelens.gov.uk
For general dog related enquiries email: DogControl@sthelens.gov.uk
Please note: St Helens Borough Council will not accept dogs from their owners or keepers or anyone they suspect to be an owner or keeper.
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