The XL Bully ban is a complex topic, but don't worry, we've got you covered. The ban was implemented in response to the breed's high risk of health problems and aggressive behavior.
In 2018, the American Temperament Test Society reported that the XL Bully breed had a passing rate of only 25.6%, compared to the average passing rate of 85% for all breeds.
The breed's poor health and temperament led many cities and states to ban or restrict the ownership of XL Bully dogs. Some cities, like Miami, Florida, have outright banned the breed, while others have implemented stricter regulations.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) has also taken steps to address the breed's issues, introducing a new breed standard for the XL Bully in 2020 that prioritizes health and temperament.
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What is the Xl Bully Ban?
The Xl Bully Ban refers to a law passed in several countries and states that prohibits the ownership and breeding of Pit Bull-type dogs, including the American Bully, also known as the Xl Bully.
The ban was enacted due to the perceived risks associated with these breeds, which some studies suggest are more likely to be involved in fatal dog attacks.
In some places, the ban also includes breeds like the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, which are often crossed with other breeds to create the Xl Bully.
The Xl Bully Ban is not a federal law in the United States, but rather a patchwork of state and local laws that vary in their specifics and enforcement.
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Arguments Against the Ban
Breed-specific legislation, like the xl bully ban, has profound impacts on families, their dogs, and animal welfare professionals.
The ban is based on misinformation, as BSL is often referred to as "BSL is Just Plain BS".
Families with xl bully dogs are often unfairly targeted and penalized, leading to unnecessary stress and anxiety.
Breed-specific legislation has no proven track record of improving public safety or reducing dog bites.
The xl bully breed is not inherently more aggressive than other breeds, and its reputation is often exaggerated.
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Pit Bull Facts
Pit Bulls are not inherently aggressive, experts and research confirm that breed does not determine behavior absolutely.
The ASPCA states that a dog's genetics may predispose it to behave in certain ways, but behavior develops through a complex interaction between environment and genetics.
Pit Bulls are often misunderstood, but they are naturally gentle and docile family dogs.
The government's elusive classification of American XL Bullies puts every bully breed dog at risk of displacement from their homes or euthanasia.
American XL Bullies are not a specific dog breed, but rather a type of bulldog resulting from mixing several breeds, including Pit Bulls, American Bulldogs, and English Bulldogs.
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American Bully Breed
The American Bully Breed is a type of bulldog that resulted from mixing several dog breeds, including Pit Bulls, American Bulldogs, and English Bulldogs.
American XL Bullies are not identified as a specific dog breed by the U.K. Kennel Club, but rather as a type of dog that can be identified by its muscular body and blocky head.
Experts confirm that genetics do not determine a dog's behavior absolutely, and that environment plays a significant role in shaping a dog's behavior.
The U.K. government's classification of American XL Bullies as a distinct breed has led to concerns that bully breed dogs will be at risk of displacement or euthanasia.
Despite the U.K. government's efforts to ban certain breeds, dog attacks in the U.K. are higher than ever, and banning breeds has not been shown to be an effective solution.
The American Bully Breed is naturally gentle and docile, and is often kept as a family dog, just like many other breeds.
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Debunking 7 Pit Bull Myths
Pit Bulls need advocates, especially during National Pit Bull Awareness Month. They're sweet pups, but unfortunately, they're often misunderstood.
Myth #1: Pit Bulls are inherently aggressive.
This couldn't be further from the truth; Pit Bulls are loving companions that thrive on human interaction.
Myth #2: Pit Bulls are prone to biting and attacking people.
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In reality, Pit Bulls are less likely to bite than other breeds, and most bites occur when they're defending themselves or their families.
Myth #3: Pit Bulls are naturally violent and should be banned.
This myth has been debunked, and many experts agree that breed-specific legislation is not an effective solution to reducing dog bites.
Myth #4: Pit Bulls are all the same, with no variation in temperament.
This is a misconception - just like any other breed, Pit Bulls come in a range of temperaments, from playful to gentle.
Myth #5: Pit Bulls are inherently strong-willed and difficult to train.
While it's true that Pit Bulls can be strong-willed, they're also highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training.
Myth #6: Pit Bulls are naturally protective of their owners and will defend them at all costs.
While some Pit Bulls may be naturally protective, it's not a universal trait - and in fact, many Pit Bulls are gentle and loving companions.
Myth #7: Pit Bulls are inherently unhealthy and prone to certain health issues.
This is a myth that's been debunked by many reputable breeders and veterinarians, who agree that Pit Bulls are a relatively healthy breed.
Legislation and Impact
In England and Wales, owning or possessing an XL Bully dog is a criminal offence unless you have a valid Certificate of Exemption.
Applications for a Certificate of Exemption to keep an XL Bully dog have closed, and new exemptions can only be authorised by a court order.
Specifically, it's an offence to sell, abandon, give away, breed, or breed from an XL Bully dog, as well as to have one in public without a lead and muzzle.
Here are the key offences related to XL Bully dogs in England and Wales:
- selling an XL Bully dog
- abandoning an XL Bully dog or letting it stray
- giving away an XL Bully dog
- breeding or breeding from an XL Bully dog
- having an XL Bully in public without a lead and muzzle
Breed Discrimination
Breed discrimination is a real issue, and it's happening with bully breeds. The American XL Bully is not a recognized breed by the American Kennel Club, but it's often lumped in with Pit Bulls due to physical characteristics.
Misinformation and prejudice are widespread, influencing legislation and harming animals. Despite growing advocacy, ignorance persists, and it's not just about bully breeds - it's about any breed that's misunderstood.
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Pit Bull is not a breed, but rather a label used to discriminate against animals. This loose definition allows officials to classify dogs involved in attacks as Pit Bulls, even when there's no clear definition of the breed type.
The British government is using the Dangerous Dogs Act to outlaw the American XL Bully, despite Prime Minister Sunak admitting the dog lacks a definitive classification. Experts are speaking out against this proposed legislation, pointing to poor pet parenting and backyard breeding culture as the real culprits behind animal attacks.
Applies to England and Wales
In England and Wales, owning an XL Bully dog is a complex issue. It's a criminal offence to possess one without a valid Certificate of Exemption.
You can't sell, abandon, give away, breed, or breed from an XL Bully dog without permission. This includes letting it stray or having it in public without a lead and muzzle.
Applications for a Certificate of Exemption have closed, and new exemptions can only be authorised by a court order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the XL Bully banned in the US?
No, the XL Bully is not banned in the US, but it is restricted under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 in the UK.
What will happen to XL Bullies if banned?
If XL Bullies are banned, owners will be subject to restrictions such as neutering, muzzling, and keeping them on a lead in public. The ban will also prohibit breeding, rehoming, selling, buying, or transferring ownership of XL Bullies.
Is an XL bully a pitbull?
No, an XL Bully is not a Pitbull, despite their physical resemblance, as they are distinct breeds with unique characteristics
What bully breeds are legal in the UK?
In the UK, most Bully breeds are legal to own, but it's essential to check the specific breed and local regulations. The XL Bully is a notable exception, requiring a Certificate of Exemption for ownership.
How many bully breeds are there in the UK?
There are approximately 10,000 to 15,000 American XL bullies in the UK, with varying estimates from government and animal charities.
Sources
- XL Bully ban (bolsover.gov.uk)
- Grandmother mauled to death by two 'unregistered XL Bullies' in Essex named after man,... - LBC (lbc.co.uk)
- statementopens in a new tab (aspca.org)
- twitter (twitter.com)
- facebook (facebook.com)
- Ban on XL Bully dogs (www.gov.uk)
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