Ban on XL Bully Type Dogs in Effect from October 1st
Ardee News and Sport — As of October 1st, the breeding, sale, rehoming, and import of XL Bully type dogs will be banned across the country, including in County Louth. The new regulations aim to address public safety concerns and ensure that no new ownership or trading of these dogs takes place within the State.
Under these regulations, it will become illegal to breed, sell, import, rehome, exchange, gift, or abandon XL Bully type dogs. However, for those who currently own an XL Bully type dog, there will be provisions in place to allow them to keep their pets under specific conditions.
From October 1st through to February 1st, 2025, current owners must apply for a Certificate of Exemption if they wish to keep their dog beyond the deadline. Certificates of Exemption will be issued by local authorities based on a set of strict criteria, including requirements for licensing, microchipping, and neutering of the dog.
To help identify whether a dog qualifies as an XL Bully, a Physical Conformation Standard will be outlined in the regulations. Owners will be responsible for identifying their dog’s breed accurately and applying for the appropriate certification by the February 2025 deadline.
After February 1st, 2025, any XL Bully type dog without a valid Certificate of Exemption may be seized and humanely euthanised, and the owner may face prosecution.
Local authorities will play a key role in the enforcement of these new rules and in processing applications for exemptions. All owners are encouraged to act promptly to ensure compliance with the upcoming regulations.
This ban comes as part of broader efforts to enhance public safety, with XL Bully type dogs deemed to pose a particular risk due to their size, strength, and history of attacks.
For more information on the ban and the certification process, owners are encouraged to contact their local authority or visit the Department of Agriculture’s website.