XL Bullies to become illegal in February

From February 1, 2025, it will be illegal to own an XL Bully type dog without a Certificate of Exemption.

All XL Bully dog owners must apply for a Certificate of Exemption on or before January 31, 2025. Such certificates will be unique to each XL Bully type dog and owner. When applying owners will need to provide a copy of valid dog licence. Under the Control of Dogs Act 1986, all dogs must be licensed and kept under effective control and must have a collar bearing the owner’s name and address. Licences are available from any Post Office or online at www.licences.ie. It is a legal requirement in Ireland to have all dogs implanted with a microchip and registered on an approved database by the time they are 12 weeks old.

According to Waterford City & County Council, owners will also have to provide confirmation of neutering: owners must arrange to have their XL Bully type dog neutered by a registered vet in order to receive a Certificate of Exemption. Photographic proof of the identity of the owner, such a copy of a passport, driver’s licence, public services card etc. must also be provided and proof of address of the owner.

Owners of XL Bully type dogs can apply for a Certificate of Exemption online at https://waterfordcouncil.ie/services/environment/dog-control/ or by posting all required documentation to: Environment Department, ref: XL Bully Certificate of Exemption, Waterford City and County Council, The Mall, Waterford X91 PK15.