This past Sunday, England and Wales enacted a ban on XL Bully dog breeds which is set to take effect immediately. The ban, enacted to help curb the levels of dangerously aggressive behavior from the breed, prevents the owning, breeding or selling of any XL Bully dog breeds within the England and Wales jurisdiction. The ban applies to American Bully, American Staffordshire Terrier, and the Dogo Argentino dog breeds.
The ban was implemented due to reports of several instances of the dogs exhibiting dangerous and aggressive behavior, particularly to those with less experience with the dogs and breeds. In one instance, an XL Bully dog attacked a woman in the United Kingdom, leading many to believe the breed is simply too dangerous for public ownership and consumption.
While some critics argue the ban is an ineffective response and could lead to people buying the breed from underground sellers, breeders or traders, the British Government is taking a firm stance in attempting to protect the public’s safety and peace of mind.
Under the ban, anyone convicted of owning, breeding or selling the XL Bully dog breeds will face six months in prison and/or a maximum fine of £5,000, as determined by the United Kingdom court system.
Although the ban may not be popular among breeders, dog owners, and fans of the breeds, ultimately this decision is intended to protect the general public from a breed that has exhibited an unfortunate number of dangerous instances. The ban, implemented by both the British Government and the Welsh Government, is effective immediately and is set to remain in effect into the foreseeable future.
