Next Step for XL Bully owners - Exemption Certificate Applications now open!

The Dangerous Dogs (designated type) Order (NI) 2024 came into force 5 July 2024. From this date, all XL Bully dogs must be on a lead and muzzle in public and dogs cannot be bred, gifted, sold, exchanged, abandoned or allowed to stray. The dog must be kept in secure conditions that will stop it from escaping.

It is currently still legal to own an XL Bully. From 1 January 2025, it will be illegal to own an XL Bully without an Exemption Certificate. 

The Dangerous Dogs (Compensation and Exemption Schemes) Order (Northern Ireland) 2024 was made on the 19 July 2024 and will come into operation on 9 August 2024. 

For full details on how to apply for an Exemption Certificate, the steps you must take, and what you can do if you no longer wish to keep your XL Bully type dog, please visit  XL Bully Dogs - Ards and North Down Borough Council

After 31 December 2024 it will be against the law to keep an XL Bully dog without a Certificate of Exemption