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XL Bully dogs

Some customers have raised concerns about the Government’s ban on XL Bully dogs comes into force at the end of this year.

What the law change means

On 31 December, XL Bully type dogs will be added to the list of banned dogs under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

This will make it illegal to sell, breed, advertise, gift, rehome, abandon or allow an XL Bully to stray.

The law also requires that the dogs are muzzled and kept on a lead in public, even in a vehicle.

What to do if you own an XL Bully

By 31 January 2024 anyone who owns an XL Bully type dog and wants to keep it will need to apply for an exemption certificate from the Government.

Customers will need to follow clear Government guidance if they wish to keep an XL Bully in their Wrekin home, and there is information available here explaining how to apply for a Certificate of Exemption.

This confirms the dog is microchipped (which is already a legal requirement), neutered, and is covered by public liability insurance. There are different deadlines for neutering, based on the age of the dog.

To apply for an exemption certificate, you’ll also need to pay a fee of £92.40 per dog.

You must be able to show the certificate to a police officer or council dog warden if asked to do so, either at the time or within five days.

Owners who choose to have their dog put down must do this before 31 January 2024. The Government will pay £200 compensation towards the cost, but you must apply by 15 March 2024.

What this means for Wrekin tenants

Wrekin Housing Group does not allow tenants to keep banned dogs listed under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

Current tenants who have an XL Bully type dog will be allowed to keep them if they have an exemption certificate.

If this applies to you, you must provide us with a copy of your exemption certificate if requested.

Owning an XL Bully type dog will not prevent you from applying for or being offered a Wrekin property, as long as you have an exemption certificate and the property is suitable.

More information on keeping pets in Wrekin properties can be found here.