XL Bully Rules Come Into Force as Ban Looms

As of Sunday, breeding, selling or abandoning the dogs is illegal and they must be kept on a lead and muzzled in public.

An XL bully dog in an undated 2023 file image taken in England. Jacob King/PA

XL bully dogs must be kept on a lead and muzzled in public under new restrictions, amid fears among animal welfare groups that a looming ban on the breed will overwhelm vets and rescue centres.

Breeding, selling or abandoning the dogs has also become illegal as of Sunday, with owners being urged to apply for a certificate of exemption for current pets before the January 31 deadline.