XL bully owners in Scotland warned of two week deadline to apply for exemption certificate

XL bully owners in Scotland have only two weeks to apply for an exemption certificate so they can continue to legally own their dogs.

Owners have until July 31 to submit their application, after which it will be a criminal offence to own an XL bully without a certificate.

Those convicted face a maximum of six months’ imprisonment and a £5,000 fine.

Paper applications have now closed and online applications must be submitted by midnight on July 31.

Applicants must microchip their dogs, commit to them being neutered, obtain third party insurance and pay a £92.40 fee.

Explainer

XL bully ban: What are the rules and when do they come into force?

A wave of restrictions starting this week are designed to see an end to the breed in Scotland.

As of February 23, XL bully dogs must be muzzled and kept on a lead in public.

Owners who decide not to keep their dogs can apply for £100 to cover cost of euthanasia/veterinary fees and £100 to compensate for the loss of the animal.

Victims and community safety minister Siobhian Brown said: “The deadline is now very close for XL bully dog owners who have not yet applied for an exemption.

“Public safety has always been the priority and the reason these measures were introduced.

“I would strongly encourage owners to apply now so they can continue to legally own their dogs.

“From August 1, 2024, it will be a criminal offence to own an XL bully without an exemption certificate or not to have applied for one by that date.”