STORY
The Government has introduced new safeguards intended to protect children around banned dog breeds, including XL bully types. From 1 November 2026, owners will not be allowed to leave a child under the age of 12 in close proximity to a banned breed dog in a domestic or private setting without adult supervision.
The requirement will become a condition of the Certificate of Exemption which allows owners to keep a banned breed legally. Defra said failure to comply could lead to enforcement action, including seizure of the dog and potential prosecution under existing powers.
The Government also said changes would be made to insurance requirements for owners of exempted banned breeds, with the third-party public liability insurance requirement being removed from 1 July because the only available provider had withdrawn from the market. All other legal requirements, including muzzling and lead rules in public places, will remain in force.