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UK Reaffirms Banned Dog List, Clarifies Seizure Powers and XL Bully Enforcement

Defra says keeping the restrictions in place protects the public from dog attacks.

Overview

  • The prohibited types include Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino and Fila Brasileiro across the UK, with XL Bully prohibited in England and Wales.
  • Police or council wardens can seize suspected banned dogs without a complaint, with no warrant needed in public places and warrants generally required in private settings.
  • Dogs can be treated as banned based on their physical characteristics rather than a registered breed name.
  • Courts may allow lifetime ownership via a Certificate of Exemption subject to conditions such as neutering, microchipping, muzzling in public, insurance and secure keeping.
  • A Court of Appeal challenge to the XL Bully prohibition failed recently, reinforcing the existing framework.