Ban on XL Bully dogs from 1 February 2025

On 1 October 2024, it became illegal to import, breed, rehome or resell an XL Bully dog. However, animal shelters and charities with XL Bully dogs already in their facilities have until 1 February 2025 to re-home or export these dogs.

From 1 February 2025, it will be illegal to own an XL Bully dog unless you have a Certificate of Exemption.

So, if you already own an XL Bully, you must get a Certificate of Exemption before 1 February 2025. The certificate means you can keep your XL Bully at a particular location until the end of their natural life.

Read more and find out how to get a Certificate of Exemption for your XL Bully dog.

What happens if I break the XL Bully rules?

If you break the rules of the XL Bully ban, you could be:

• Fined up to €2,500
• Imprisoned for up to 3 months
• Both fined and imprisoned

If you don’t have a Certificate of Exemption for your XL Bully dog by 1 February 2025, your dog can be seized and put down.

You can also find out about other restricted dog breeds and how to get a dog licence in Ireland.