XL Bully dogs legislation, one year on

The legislation covering ownership and registration of XL Bully dogs has now been in force for 12 months.

By the end of June last year all exempted XL Bully dogs had to be neutered.

Owners of registered XL Bully dogs that were aged 12 months or older on 31 January 2024 must have had their dogs neutered by the last day of June 2024 in order for the Certificate of Exemption to remain valid.

Strict controls are now in place for existing XL Bullies. They must be registered, microchipped, neutered and kept muzzled and on a lead in public and have third-party insurance with The Dogs Trust. 

These measures have been put in place to enhance public safety while making sure that the existing population of XL Bullies reduces over time.

Since last February more than 1,500 addresses across the force area have been confirmed through registration by DEFRA or by South Wales Police as being suspected of owning an XL Bully.

Officers have visited around 100 properties, executed more than 30 warrants and seized 88 dogs. There are 36 ongoing investigations for Dangerous Dog Act-related offences.

Chief Inspector Scott Threadgold said:

“The legislation came about because there had been a significant increase in fatal and serious attacks nationally by XL Bullies.

“We will always protect the public from any identified threats and this is our priority. If there are dangerous dogs in our communities, that are showing signs of aggression as well as being illegal by breed, then we will take action. 

“We continue to encourage the public to report these types of dogs. We know the impact on a family and on a wider community of a fatal dog attack is devastating. 

"Therefore, if anyone has information around dangerous or illegal dogs, they should report it to the police. We will take positive action to do anything we can to prevent harm in our communities.

“Anyone found in possession of these dangerous dogs and not meeting the strict rules could have their dog seized and face prosecution and a criminal record.”