XL bully dog rules explained as they come into effect this weekend

Pets are thought to be a vital addition to any home because they are loyal, offer companionship and are pretty cute too.

But the controversy surrounding a specific breed of dog has gone so far as to change legislation, leaving owners panicked about the future of their furry friend’s life.

After an increase in attacks by the XL Bully breed, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak enforced a tight crack down on who can own one and under what conditions.

Calling the breed a 'danger to our communities', he confirmed that the dog had been placed under the Dangerous Dogs act and that new laws would be implemented 'by the end of the year'.

The American XL Bully breed is thought to have originated in the US in the 1980s and are a mix of American pit bull terrier and American Staffordshire terrier, which is why it’s very easy to mistake the breeds for one another.

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With owners possibly spending anywhere up to £2,500 for a puppy, according to a Sun on Sunday probe, taking care of your pet and making sure it is trained should be a no-brainer.

Under the new set of rules proposed by the Government, XL Bully owners will have just two weeks to make sure that their dogs are legally compliant.

It was announced in October that from December 31, owners must adhere to rules such as having the dogs microchipped, neutered, wearing a muzzle and lead on when in public and a total ban on buying, selling or abandoning the breed.

Those who advertise, exchange or gift XL Bullies may face punishment, according to the Government's website, as the dogs are required to be kept secure.

In order to keep your dog after the ban has been put in place, you also must spend money on a Certificate of Exemption, which costs £92.40 by January 31, 2024.

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With so many rules, it may be difficult to keep up, so let’s look at the whole list:

• To euthanise your dog, the cut off is January 31, 2024
• To claim the £200 compensation for putting down your dog, you must apply before March, 2024
• To keep your pet, apply for a Certificate of Exemption by January, 31, 2024
• If your dog is older than one on January 31, 2024, neuter by June 30, 2024
• If your dog is younger than one on January 31, 2024, neuter by December 31, 2024

But there’s more.

Christine Middlemiss, Chief veterinary officer also went on to state: "From 1 February 2024, it will also be a criminal offence to be in possession of an XL bully in England and Wales unless you have applied for an exemption."

If you currently own a Bully, then make sure that you have read through the guidelines so that you can apply for what you need before the cut off dates.