Do you have an XL Bully?
This is a worrying time for dog owners as the deadline to register an XL Bully type dog draws closer.
It can sometimes be difficult to ascertain as to whether your dog is an XL Bully. This is because dogs are ‘typed’ by their measurements and look, not by DNA, or the breed the dog was sold or rescued as. XL Bullies are also not a recognised breed of the UK Kennel Club. If you think your dog may be an XL Bully, they must be registered by midday on the 31st January. This can be done on the government website. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-a-certificate-of-exemption-to-keep-an-xl-bully-dog
To register your dog, they must be microchipped, neutered (or if they are too young, neutered by the government deadlines), and have public liability insurance. All XL Bully type dogs must be kept on a lead and muzzle when in a public place.
If you are not sure if your dog is an XL Bully, the government guidelines can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/official-definition-of-an-xl-bully-dog/official-definition-of-an-xl-bully-dog
If you have a dog from All Dogs Matter, and are worried that your dog may be an XL Bully, please send us an up to date photo of your dog and your contact details.
It is now illegal to abandon, rehome, breed or sell an XL Bully, and rescues are also bound by these laws. Rescues are no longer allowed by law to take in an XL Bully type dog.
As an animal welfare charity, we believe that the solution is not banning more types. Instead, the government needs to focus on the improvement and enforcement of current breeding and dog control regulations, and on promoting responsible dog ownership and training.