A significant change in legislation affecting tens of thousands of dog owners across the UK is set to take effect on November 1. The new law introduces additional safety measures regarding banned dog breeds and interactions with children.
Currently, several dog breeds are prohibited in the UK, including the Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, and XL Bully. Ownership, sale, abandonment, gifting, or breeding of these banned breeds is illegal. However, some owners may retain possession of a banned breed if they hold a valid Certificate of Exemption.
There are over 50,000 such certificates across the UK, most of which pertain to XL Bullies. This breed was specifically banned in February 2024 due to its large, muscular build and history of serious attacks, including fatal incidents involving children.
READ MORE: Government outlines support for heating costs as Ofgem price cap set to rise in October
READ MORE: Bath Rugby suffer significant injury setback ahead of Gallagher Premiership season
Certificate holders must comply with strict conditions for the dog’s lifetime. These include notifying the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) of any permanent address changes, informing Defra if the dog dies or is exported, and ensuring the dog is muzzled at all times in public. The dog must reside primarily at the certificate holder’s address and may only stay elsewhere for up to 30 days annually.
In public, these dogs must be kept on a lead held by someone aged 16 or older and housed securely to prevent escape.
Starting November 1, the new legislation will also make it an offence to leave a child under the age of 12 alone near an XL Bully or any other prohibited dog in private settings such as homes or gardens without adult supervision. This aligns with existing advice from the RSPCA, which strongly recommends that children should never be left unattended with dogs, regardless of the dog’s history or temperament.
Research shows that young children, particularly under 12, are at higher risk of dog-related injuries within the home. Children’s behaviour, such as close proximity, sudden movements, and loud noises, can sometimes unsettle dogs. Additionally, dogs under stress, illness, or feeling overwhelmed may react unpredictably if unable to remove themselves from the situation.
Government guidance urges adults to stay vigilant and intervene as necessary to separate children and dogs to ensure safety for all parties involved.