UK Former American XL Bully Owners Might Face Challenges As Govt Ban The Dogs
The American XL Bully dog breed has stirred up a storm of controversy in the UK, prompting discussions on whether to ban the breed altogether. Recent incidents of attacks involving XL Bullies have raised concerns about public safety and the welfare of both humans and other dogs.
The Rise Of The American XL Bully
The American XL Bully is the largest variant of the American Bully breed, known for its impressive strength and substantial build. These dogs can weigh up to 60 kg and reach heights of 53 cm. Introduced to the UK around 2014,
Their popularity has steadily grown in recent years, despite a lack of reliable data on their numbers. This breed is characterized by a heavy bone structure and muscular physique, making it capable of overpowering adults.
UK Govt Response On American XL Bully Ban
The recent surge in XL Bully-related incidents in the UK has prompted action from authorities. Rishi Sunak, the UK Prime Minister, announced plans to ban the breed by the end of the year. However, this ban comes with a unique twist—an amnesty period will precede it.
During this time, existing XL Bullies will not be culled, but owners will be required to register their dogs and keep them leashed and muzzled in public. This approach aims to balance public safety with compassion for existing pet owners.
The Case For The Ban
Proponents of the XL Bully ban, including legal expert Dr. Lawrence Newport, argue that the breed poses a unique danger. Newport highlights that XL Bullies have been responsible for nearly 50% of all attacks on both humans and other dogs since 2021.
This statistic, along with their involvement in six out of ten fatal dog attacks in the UK last year, makes a compelling case for the ban. Newport draws parallels with the successful ban on pit bulls in the UK since 1991, which has significantly reduced per capita deaths related to dog attacks when compared to the US.
Opposing Views
Not everyone supports the XL Bully ban. Some animal welfare charities, such as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), argue that adding XL Bullies to the list of banned dogs may not effectively curb the rise in attacks.
They believe that the problem lies more with irresponsible breeding, rearing, and ownership rather than the breed itself. The increasing popularity of XL Bullies has turned them into valuable commodities, potentially contributing to aggression issues in dogs of all breeds.
