XL Bully Regulations

XL Bully Type Dog Regulations in Ireland

The XL Bully type dog is a variant of the wider American Bully breed type. It is typically larger (in both height and body shape) and more muscular than other American Bully types such as the ‘Micro’, ‘Pocket’, ‘Standard’, and ‘Classic’.

It is the responsibility of dog owners to determine whether their dog meets the identification criteria for an XL Bully type and is therefore subject to the ban.

Ban Effective from 1 October 2024

From 1 October 2024, it is prohibited to import, breed, sell, or re-home XL Bully type dogs in Ireland.

Certificate of Exemption

Since 1 February 2025, it is illegal to own an XL Bully type dog without a Certificate of Exemption.

If you are the current owner of an XL Bully type dog and have obtained a Certificate of Exemption, you must comply with the following conditions for the lifetime of the dog:

• Keep the dog at the address specified on the certificate, except for a maximum of 30 days per year.
• Apply to the local authority for a revised certificate if you change address (excluding the 30-day exception).
• Notify the local authority of the dog’s death or export.
• Keep the dog securely muzzled and on a strong lead (not exceeding 2 metres) in public. The lead must be held by someone over the age of 16. The muzzle must prevent the dog from biting.
• Ensure the dog is kept in secure, welfare-appropriate premises that prevent escape.
• Provide access to read the dog’s microchip upon request by an Authorised Officer.
• Comply with all other relevant legislation regarding dog ownership.
• Provide the Certificate of Exemption to a Dog Warden or member of An Garda Síochána within 10 days of a request.
• If the dog is over 18 months old on 1 October 2024 and un-neutered, submit a Confirmation of Neutering Status Form (countersigned by a registered veterinary practitioner) by 30 June 2025.
• If the dog is under 18 months old, submit the same form within one month of neutering or by 1 July 2026, whichever is earlier.

Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with the Certificate of Exemption conditions is an offence under the Control of Dogs Act 1986. Consequences may include:

• Seizure and humane euthanasia of the dog.
• Legal penalties for the owner.

From 1 February 2025, possession of an XL Bully type dog without a Certificate of Exemption may result in:

• A fine of up to €2,500.
• Imprisonment for up to 3 months.
• Or both.

For more information, you can consult the Department of Rural and Community Development's guidelines available at this link: Ban on XL Bully dogs