DAERA announces updates to requirements for exempted dogs

In line with steps being taken in England and Wales, from 1 November 2026, dog owners must not allow a child under the age of 12 to be left in close proximity to a prohibited breed type dog in a home or other private setting without adult supervision. This measure is intended to help reduce the risk of serious incidents involving children.

The new safeguard aims to reduce the risk of serious injury to children in domestic environments, while allowing exempted dogs to remain with families where appropriate supervision is in place.  As with other conditions of exemption, failure to comply with this requirement may result in enforcement action. This can include seizure of the dog and potential prosecution, in line with existing powers under the Dogs Order (Northern Ireland) 1983. Further updated guidance will be published by the Department in advance of the new requirement coming into effect on the 1 November 2026.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir, stated:

“Restrictions on prohibited breeds are essential for public safety, that is why I introduced these measures for XL Bully type dogs in 2024. The evidence was clear that these animals posed a greater risk to people and other animals when compared to other breeds.

“To enhance child safety, I now plan to introduce similar steps being taken in England and Wales from 1 November prohibiting a child under the age of 12 to be left in close proximity to a prohibited breed type dog in a home or other private setting without adult supervision. Although this legal requirement only applies to prohibited breed-types, any dog can pose a risk in certain situations. Owners should be reminded of guidance that young children should always be supervised around all dogs.”

In addition, DAERA has also announced that owners will no longer be required, from 1 July 2026, to have third party liability insurance as part of the conditions to obtain an Exemption Certificate. This is in line with steps being taken in all other UK jurisdictions and aligns with the current requirements in the Republic of Ireland. Local councils will be in contact with prohibited breed owners directly in the coming weeks with updated Exemption Certificates.

All other conditions attached to an Exemption Certificate remain in place, and owners must continue to comply with these requirements. Owners do not need to take any additional action as result of the changes.

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