Credit: Dlexus, CC BY-SA 4.0

All XL Bully owners who wish to keep their dog will have to apply and pay for an exemption certificate by 31 December 2024 in the second stage of new restrictions.

Conditions for exemption will include neutering and microchipping the dog and having third-party insurance.

A number of restrictions previously came into force from 5 July, requiring owners of XL Bully type dogs to ensure their dog is muzzled and on a lead when in a public place. Selling, gifting, exchanging or breeding from an XL Bully type dog is also now prohibited.

Agriculture, environment and rural affairs minister Andrew Muir said: “I know the vast majority of dog owners are responsible and will take the necessary steps to comply with the new laws.

“I would encourage all XL Bully type dog owners to familiarise themselves with the conditions for exemption and take immediate action to start preparing to apply for an exemption certificate from 9 August and before the deadline of 31 December 2024.”

If the owner of an XL Bully type dog does not wish to keep their dog long term, they can have their dog put to sleep by a vet and claim compensation to help with these costs.

The Irish government this month announced it will follow Northern Ireland in introducing a ban on XL Bully dogs.

The importing, breeding, selling and re-homing of XL Bullies will be banned south of the border from 1 October 2024 and it will become illegal to own an XL Bully without a certificate of exemption after 1 February 2025.