Scotland - Deadline to apply online for Exemption Certificate:

XL Bully types - Scotland:

From 1st August 2024 it will be a criminal offence to own an XL Bully type without a certificate of exemption or having applied for one.

You can apply for a Certificate of Exemption online on GOV.UK until 31 July 2024.

The Scottish Government website advises the following:

Paper applications have now closed. If you've already applied and need to send us more documents, you can email them to xlbullydogenquiries@gov.scot. You can also still post them to:

XL Bully Dog Exemption Team
Room GW15
Scottish Government
St Andrew’s House
2 Regent Road
Edinburgh EH1 3DG

Processing times

We try to process applications within a few days, but it may sometimes take up to a few weeks. If you apply shortly before the closing date, you may not receive your Certificate of Exemption by 1 August 2024.

If this happens and the authorities ask to see your certificate, you can show them proof that you applied. This can be:

• an email confirming you submitted the online form
• proof that you posted a paper application
• proof that you paid the application fee

If you need help with your application

Email xlbullydogenquiries@gov.scot with:

• your full name
• your postcode
• the name of your dog

Ireland to introduce new dog law:

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD has announced a ban on XL Bully Dogs.

From October 1st 2024, new regulations will prohibit the importing, breeding, selling and re-homing of XL Bullies.

From February 1st 2025, it will be illegal to own an XL Bully without a ‘Certificate of Exemption’.

Following consultation with the chairperson of the Stakeholder Group on Dog Control, Retired Deputy Garda Commissioner John Twomey, Minister Humphreys has announced the ban in order to protect public safety.

Certificates of Exemption will be issued subject to strict criteria, including a requirement for licensing, microchipping and neutering. Other possible criteria will be discussed with the Stakeholder Group on Dog Control put in place to advise on these issues.

Between now and 1st October 2024 the necessary regulations will be put in place, with cross Government work on this already commenced.