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Advice for XL Bully Owners


Rules are changing for XL Bully Owners

Rules are changing for XL Bully Owners
 

New legal safeguards came into effect for XL Bully type dogs in Northern Ireland on 5 July 2024. From this date, owners are not allowed to breed, sell, exchange, gift or abandon an XL Bully type dog, and they must keep their dog muzzled and on a lead when in public places. If you own an XL Bully, you are advised to read through the current guidance available on nidirect.

While it is currently still legal to own an XL Bully in Northern Ireland, this will change on 31 December 2024, when beyond that date it will become an offence to own an XL Bully in the absence of an Exemption Certificate.

nidirect Guidance

Apply for your Certificate of Exemption

  • Making an application for an XL Bully Certificate of Exemption
  • Getting your dog microchipped and licensed
  • Third party public liability insurance
  • Neutering an XL Bully dog
  • After you apply for an exemption
  • DAERA Compensation scheme for owners who do not wish to keep their XL Bully type dog