U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak Plans to Ban American XL Bully Dogs
U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced his plans to ban American XL Bully dogs by the end of this year, following a series of attacks involving the breed. These attacks, including a fatal incident in Staffordshire, have raised concerns about the safety of communities, particularly children.
The West Midlands Ambulance Service reported that a male victim was seriously injured and is currently in critical condition after being attacked by a suspected XL Bully. Sunak expressed his horror at recent videos showing these attacks and labeled the dogs as a danger to society.
It is worth noting that the American XL Bully is not officially recognized as a breed by the U.K.’s Royal Kennel Club, although it is recognized by the American Kennel Club. Sunak has assigned ministers with the task of defining the breed and intends to include it in the list of dangerous dogs under the Dangerous Dogs Act.
If the ban is implemented, the American XL Bully will join other prohibited breeds such as the pit bull terrier, Japanese tosa, dogo argentino, and fila brasileiro. The breed has been the subject of a national debate after viral footage showed an XL Bully attacking multiple individuals, including an 11-year-old girl, in Birmingham.
U.K. Home Secretary Suella Braverman has called for urgent advice on banning the American XL Bully breed. Originating in the U.S. in the 1980s, the American XL Bully is a hybrid between the American Pit Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier, and it is known for its fighting ability.
Concerned organizations, such as Bully Watch UK, highlight the increasing number of fatal attacks involving the breed. They attribute unpredictable temperaments and the style of biting as contributing factors to these attacks. Currently, under the Dangerous Dogs Act, owning a dog that is deemed “dangerously out of control” is illegal, and owners could face up to 14 years in prison if a person dies as a result of an attack.
Prime Minister Sunak’s decision to outlaw American XL Bully dogs aims to enhance public safety and prevent further incidents. The ban will reflect the government’s commitment to protecting citizens from potentially dangerous dog breeds.
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