British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has declared his intent to ban American XL Bully dogs in the UK by the end of this year. This decision comes because of a progression of disturbing attacks involving these dogs, which have raised concerns about public safety.
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American XL Bully dogs belong to a subset of the American Bully breed, known for their robust physique and muscular build. They are the biggest of the four American Bully types, which include standard, pocket, classic, and XL.
These dogs can weigh more than nine stone (60kg) and are strong enough to overpower adults. Their origin dates back to the late 1980s in the United States when American Pit Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers were crossbred. Over time, they have been crossed with other breeds to enhance their muscle mass.
While the United Kennel Club in the United States describes American XL Bully Dogs as excellent family dogs with a gentle and friendly demeanor, it also acknowledges that some level of dog aggression is characteristic of this breed, though aggressive behavior towards humans is considered uncharacteristic.
However, it’s critical to take note of that the main British dog associations do not officially recognize the American Bully as a specific breed.
American Bullies, especially the XL variation, acquired conspicuousness in the UK moderately as of late, around 2014 or 2015. Their numbers saw quick development during the Covid pandemic, with additional people getting them as pets.
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The choice to boycott American XL Bully dogs in the UK has been provoked by a progression of high-profile attacks including these canines. One of the latest incident happened in Walsall, in Britain’s West Midlands region, resulting in a man’s death.
The tragic outcome of this attack led Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to initiate efforts to define the breed legally so that it can be banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act, which is applicable in England, Wales, and Scotland.
In another incident, a 11-year-old young lady was attacked by an American Bully XL in Birmingham, and two men who intervened also suffered injuries.
Likewise, in April, a 65-year-old grandma was killed after attempting to break up a fight between her two American Bullies, resulting in catastrophic injuries.
These incidents, along with others like the mauling of a 17-month-old toddler in her own home and the fatal attack on a 10-year-old boy in Caerphilly, Wales, have raised significant concerns about the safety of these dogs.
The UK isn’t the only nation resolving the issue of American Bullies. A few countries have proactively done whatever it takes to control or boycott these dogs.
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For instance, American Bullies are illegal in Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. In the Republic of Ireland, restrictions include mandatory muzzling and leash requirements when in public.
Under the Dangerous Dogs Act in the UK, several breeds are banned, as they are considered “dangerously out of control.” These breeds include the American Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro.
Additionally, dogs that share physical characteristics with these banned breeds, such as crossbreeds, are also prohibited.
If someone is found to own a banned breed in the UK, the police or local council dog wardens have the authority to seize and keep the dog, even if it is not acting dangerously and no complaints have been made.
In a court proceeding, the owner is responsible for proving that their dog does not belong to a banned type. Failure to provide such proof or pleading guilty may result in a conviction carrying an unlimited fine or imprisonment for up to six months, with the dog being destroyed.
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