What is an XL bully, are they dangerous and is the breed illegal in Ireland? (2024)

AN XL bully dog is the largest of the American Bully Breed and are subject to concerns often raised around the safety of owning one.

The XL bully is usually a mix of a number of breeds including the American pit bull terrier.

There are four types of bully dogs, standard, classic, pocket and XL, with the XL bully separated from the other types by it's adult height.

To be classified as an XL bully a dog would measure at adult height 21 to 23 inches or 53 to 58 cm for males and 19 to 22 inches or 48 to 56 cm for females.

The dogs have an expected life span of around four to eight years and usually produce a litter size of around four to eight pups.

The dogs can come in all colours and usually have a short and glossy coat, a large head, broad chest and muscular body.

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They are an expensive dog to buy with both adult and puppy XL bullies on sale in Ireland ranging in price up to €3000.

They have been part of a worldwide conversation around safety and, due to their size and incredible strength, have been completely banned in some countries.

Their jaws are particularly strong and because of this, an XL bully bite would inflict more serious damage than other dog breeds - with the possibility of breaking bones and tearing muscle.

The dogs have a bite force of around 305 PSI (pounds per square inch), according to Top Dog Tips.

It is unlikely that a human would be able to successfully fight off an XL bully and dog experts warn to run or shout for help if you find yourself under attack from the breed.

Around half of deaths resulting from dog attacks in the UK between 2021 and 2023 were from an XL bully attack.

Are they illegal in Ireland?

Ireland currently does not have a ban in place on any dogs however there are some restricted breeds.

Any dog who is a mix or cross of the restricted breeds is known as a "ban dog" meaning they are also classed as restricted.

As XL bullies are usually a mix of restricted breed the American Pit Bull Terrier they fall under the restricted breed category.

Owners of restricted breeds have a strict set of rules they must follow in regards to their dogs laid out in the Control of Dogs Act.

Restricted breeds must always be muzzled in public and kept on a short lead less than two metres.

The leads must be either a chain or "sufficiently strong."

The dogs must wear a collar at all times with the owners name and address listed.

Restricted breeds can not be led by children or anyone under the age of 16.

All restricted dogs are also subject to regular dog laws in Ireland.

These include having a dog license and having your dog microchipped.

What happens if you do not follow restrictions?

If you are found in breach of restrictions you can be issued with an on the spot fine.

Dog wardens have the authority to issue these fines and request the name and address of the person found in breech of the restrictions and law.

Dogs may also be seized if owners are not in compliance with laws and restrictions.

Interfering or obstructing the dog warden can result in arrest.

Will the XL bully be banned in Ireland?

Following a number of dog attacks involving the XL bully in Ireland there have been calls to follow in the footsteps of the UK and ban the breed completely.

From January 2024 in the UK it is illegal rehome, breed or sell an XL bully or own one unless it is on the list of exempt dogs.

In Northern Ireland those who wish to keep their XL bully dog must register it and it must be muzzled in public and neutered.

Speaking this week Justice Minister Helen McEntee stated she believes a ban should be introduced on the dogs.

When asked she said: “Personally, I think there should be, yes.”

“Where a dog is known to be potentially vicious… where there is a pattern of particular dogs, then we do need to go further here.”

Minister Heather Humphreys also confirmed she would like to see stricter rules around the dog

She said: "I have asked the Group to examine the restricted breeds list, in line with actions being taken in the UK and Northern Ireland.

"I am committed to working with colleagues across Government in taking whatever action is necessary to strengthen our dog control laws."