XL Bully dogs

On 14 November 2023, the Government announced that the XL Bully type will be added to the existing list of banned dog breeds in Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. Devon and Cornwall Police are responsible for enforcing the Dangerous Dogs Act in the Teignbridge District Council area. 

 

From 31 December 2023 it will be unlawful to breed, sell, gift, or allow an XL Bully type to stray. All XL Bully types, will be required  to be kept on a lead and wear a muzzle when in public places.

 

From 1 February 2024 it will be a criminal offence to be in possession of an XL Bully type dog unless the dog has been certified as exempt on the Index of Exempted dogs and is compliant with the requirements. You must Apply to DEFRA for a Certificate of Exemption by 31 January 2024, to be granted a Certificate of Exemption. 

 

After the 1 of February 2024 if you think a person has an XL Bully Type dog without a Certificate of Exemption you should report this to Devon & Cornwall Police on the following link Devon & Cornwall Police.

 

Further information and the criteria regarding what you need to do if you have an XL Bully type, can be found on the gov.uk guidance page Prepare for the ban on XL Bully dogs - GOV.UK