Government Announces Two-Stage Ban on Pit Bull Terriers and XL Bullies, Starting October 1
Dublin: The Irish government is set to ban many Pit Bull Terriers under new regulations aimed at controlling “devil dogs.” These dogs will be classified as XL Bully breeds, depending on their height—20 inches or more for male dogs and 19 inches for females, measured at the withers (the highest point behind the neck).
Community and Rural Affairs Minister Heather Humphreys confirmed Ireland will adopt the same size criteria used in the UK and Northern Ireland. Local authorities will enforce the ban, which will be rolled out in two stages.
Starting October 1, 2024, new rules will prohibit the import, breeding, sale, and rehoming of XL Bully dogs. By February 1, 2025, owning an XL Bully without a Certificate of Exemption will be illegal. Current Pit Bull owners must apply for exemption certificates between October 1, 2024, and January 31, 2025.
The ban was introduced following several serious dog attacks, with a €2 million investment in the national dog control service to ensure compliance. All XL Bully owners will need to license, microchip, and neuter their dogs, and dog wardens will be responsible for enforcing the ban.
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