XL Bully Dog Ban in England: Judicial Review on the Horizon?

Imagine, if you will, taking a stroll in England’s picturesque parks and suddenly you encounter a hefty, vigorous, and towering hound; an XL Bully. England, long regarded as a nation of dog lovers, finds itself at the crossroads over the ongoing debate about these breeds. Today, we take you through the unfolding drama around England’s XL Bully ban and the potentiality of a judicial review.

The love for breeds and dilemma

England’s undying penchant for dog breeds is undebatable. From the royal Pembrokeshire Corgis to the widely popular English Bulldogs, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and now the contentious XL Bullies, the nation has a diversified dog breed palette. But each breed brings along its unique challenges that sometimes turn into legal tussles and societal debates.

“There’s a balance that needs to be struck between the desire of dog lovers to breed and own different types of dogs and the safety and wellbeing of the community and the dogs themselves. It’s a delicate balancing act that sometimes teeters towards heated legal and philosophical debates.”

That is exactly where we find ourselves today, in the midst of a hot debate over the XL Bully dog breed.

The impending ban on England’s XL Bully dog breed might face a legal challenge. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) is pressing for a judicial review.

The RSPCA’s Dawn Smith expressed concerns in an interview with the BBC. She felt the ban process was hurried and constantly changing. Despite the ban’s fast approaching deadline, Smith retains hope that a judicial review will occur mid-January.

Meanwhile, a certain dog has a peculiar habit – he absolutely has to hold a toy while sleeping!

When does the XL Bully dog ban start?

As reported by the BBC, new regulations will come into effect on December 31, 2023, rendering the sale, donation, or breeding of XL Bully dogs unlawful. As of 2024, ownership of this breed in England and Wales will only be authorized with aCertification of Exemption.

Smith and the RSPCA express deep worry for those XL Bully dogs that lack someone to secure them an exemption, especially those in shelters. Emphasizing this concern, she said, “The fear is for dogs lacking owners. Absent someone to take on their care, countless dogs could be euthanized.”