XL Bully Dogs To Be Banned Under New Regulations

XL bully dogs are to face a ban as part of new regulations introduced later this year.

Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys will announce these measures later today, which will be enforced in two phases between October and February. 

The first phase will begin on 1 October this year, where it will be made illegal to breed, sell, rehome or import XL bully dogs.

On 1 February next year, the second phase will be implemented, banning the ownership of an XL bully dog, unless the owner has a Certificate of Exemption. This certificate will only be issued to owners who can prove their dog has a licence, is neutered and microchipped. 

The Stakeholder Group on Dog Control will discuss further criteria for this exemption. 

This follows a call for tighter measures regarding dog control amid a number of high-profile dog attacks, including the death of 23 year old Nicole Morey who died after being attacked by an XL bully dog at her home in Co Limerick last month.

It was also confirmed that dog owners who fail to comply with these new regulations after February 1 next year, will have their dog seized and euthanised.

These XL bullies are among 11 dog breeds, including crossbreeds, on a "restricted breeds" list in Ireland. However, there are currently no bans in place. 

Such restrictions mean that these dogs must be muzzled when in public, kept on a strong lead by someone over the age of 16, wear a collar with the owner's name and address.

The measures are being implemented following consultation with the chair of the stakeholder group on dog control, and the Attorney General.