Recent figures reveal that approximately 57,000 American XL Bully dogs remain on the streets after being exempted from a government-imposed cull, despite just 395 of the breed being euthanized since the ban.

This situation emerged after a law was enacted to address safety concerns following numerous attacks attributed to this breed.

As of February 1, 2024, it became illegal to own an XL Bully without obtaining a Certificate of Exemption.

Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasized the necessity of this ban, citing the potential dangers to communities.

However, new government statistics indicate that only 0.7 percent of American XL Bullies have been removed from public spaces.

The government introduced this ban due to the breed’s association with 11 fatalities since 2021, affecting individuals ranging from 17 months to 84 years old.

To maintain ownership under the exemption, dog owners must pay a fee of £92.40 and adhere to strict regulations, including neutering, muzzling, and keeping their dogs on a leash in public. Furthermore, owners must secure insurance for third-party liability.

Notably, only 400 owners have sought compensation for euthanized XL Bullies, with payments successfully made to 395 individuals.

The number of exempted dogs—57,000—significantly exceeds the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) estimate of 10,000 for the breed in England. There are also concerns about an estimated additional 20,000 unregistered XL Bullies.

Dr. Samantha Gaines, an RSPCA dog welfare expert, expressed concerns about the overwhelming number of affected dogs.

She noted that the high exemption figures indicate responsible ownership among dog lovers wishing to keep their pets.

However, she urged the UK Government to support veterinarians in managing the necessary neutering, which is a legal requirement for exemption.

Under current regulations, unregistered XL Bullies can be seized, and their owners face fines or prosecution.

Seized dogs are taken to kennels while a court determines whether they should be euthanized or deemed safe for public safety.

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