Important update for XL Bully owners in Scotland

In Scotland, owners of XL Bully dogs must adhere to specific regulations.

If the breed of the dog is uncertain, it is recommended to follow these guidelines as a precaution.

While it remains legal to own an XL Bully dog in Scotland, owners must ensure that the dog is muzzled and on a lead when in public places.

It is an offence to:

  • Have an XL Bully in public without a lead and muzzle
  • Breed from an XL Bully dog
  • Sell or give away an XL Bully dog 
  • Abandon an XL Bully dog or let it stray 

Failure to comply with the legislation can result in fines of up to £5,000, imprisonment for up to 6 months, or both.

From 31 July 2024, owners must possess or have applied for an exemption certificate to legally own an XL Bully dog.

Loreburn tenants who own an XL Bully are required to comply with the legislation along with the requirements to notify Loreburn and seek permission to keep the dog in their property.   

If you have any questions or concerns please get in touch without delay.  

Request permission to keep an XL Bully

FAQs
What should I do if I'm a Loreburn tenant and own an XL Bully?

Tenants who own an XL Bully must ask for permission to have the dog on their property. They should also provide us with:

  • A copy of the dog's Certificate of Exemption
  • Details of the dog’s microchip
  • Evidence of when the dog was acquired (this could include paperwork relating to the purchase, confirmation from a vet etc)
  • Evidence of adequate public liability insurance
  • Confirmation that they will adhere to the safety measures that we expect to protect our staff and contractors. This includes a requirement for the dog to be muzzled and secured in an appropriate area while staff/contractors are visiting the property.

We will consider all requests on an individual basis. Those who do not provide us with this information may face legal action by Loreburn under the terms of the tenancy agreement. Where necessary, we will report non-compliance with the law to Police Scotland.

What will happen if I don't have permission to keep an XL Bully?

Loreburn tenants who have an XL Bully without permission will be reported to Police Scotland for investigation under the Dangerous Dogs (Designated Types) Scotland Order 2024.

Can Loreburn refuse permission for tenants to keep an XL Bully?

Yes. Written permission will NOT be granted if:

  • The dog does not have a Certificate of Exemption
  • The XL Bully does not meet Government legislation - this means the tenant must have owned the dog before February 2024 as per the Dangerous Dogs (Designated Types) Scotland Order 2024
  • The tenant lives in a flatted development with communal areas, or accommodation with no secure garden
  • We have any concerns about safety or compliance with legal requirements

If the breed of the dog is unclear, permission will only be granted if the tenant can provide a certificate from a veterinarian or another authorised body confirming the breed of the dog and ensuring it is not a banned breed.

Requests from tenants to bring a new XL Bully dog into their household will automatically be declined.

What happens if I am a tenant and found in breach of the law?

If any tenant is found in breach of the law, they could face up to 6 months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £5,000. Their dog may also be seized and euthanised. If a tenant is convicted of a crime, their tenancy may be at risk.

I've applied for housing. Will I be accepted for a tenancy if I have an XL Bully?

New tenancies will not be offered to households owning XL Bully dogs.

What should I do if I have any concerns about a dog?

To make a complaint about a dog, or to report any concerns, you should contact D&G Council online or via telephone on 030 33 33 3000. If you have witnessed or are aware of a dog attack, then please also report the matter to Police Scotland for investigation under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

If the dog belongs to a Loreburn tenant, you should also contact us by calling 01387 321 300 or fill in our online contact form.