Breed Specific Legislation

In this conversation, Anne and Killian discuss the implications of breed specific legislation (BSL) in Ireland, particularly focusing on the upcoming XL Bully ban. We explore the flaws of BSL, the misconceptions surrounding dog behaviour, and the impact of such legislation on responsible dog owners and the dogs themselves. We discuss the need for community-based solutions, education, and awareness to improve dog safety and welfare, rather than punitive measures that unfairly target certain breeds and their owners.

 

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Statement of the ineffectiveness of BSL

Book Recommendation: “Pit Bull” by Bronwen Dickey

Breed specific legislation in Ireland

Restricted Breeds

Certain types or breeds of dog are classed as restricted breeds. There are additional rules you must follow if you have a restricted breed of dog. This applies to the following types of dog, as well as strains or cross-breeds of these breeds:

• American pit bull terrier
• English bull terrier
• Staffordshire bull terrier
• Bull mastiff
• Dobermann pinscher
• German shepherd (Alsatian)
• Rhodesian ridgeback
• Rottweiler
• Japanese akita
• Japanese tosa
• Bandog

In Ireland restricted dogs (or strains and crosses of them) must be:

• Kept on a short strong lead (under 2 metres)
• With someone over the age of 16, who is able to control them
• Muzzled when in a public place

• Wearing a collar with the name and address of their owner, at all times

Greyhound

Greyhounds are not a restricted breed. However, there are specific rules you must follow if you are out with your greyhound in a public place. You must:

• Always have your greyhound on a leash
• Never walk more than 4 greyhounds at a time

These rules apply to greyhounds, whippets as well as strains or cross-breeds of these breeds

Ban on XL Bully

On 12 July 2024, the Government announced an ban on XL Bully dogs. This means from:

• 1 October 2024, it will be illegal to import, breed, rehome or resell an XL Bully dog
• 1 February 2025, it will be illegal to own an XL Bully dog unless you have a Certificate of Exemption

If you own an XL Bully, you need to get a Certificate of Exemption before 1 February 2025. To get a Certificate of Exemption, your XL Bully must be:

• Licenced
• Microchipped
• Neutered

You can apply for a certificate until 31 January 2025 by completing and submitting a form to your local authority. 

Find more information here.

 

Takeaways

• Breed specific legislation targets certain dog breeds based on misconceptions.
• The XL Bully ban is a recent addition to Ireland's dog control laws.
• Media sensationalism influences public perception of dog breeds.
• Dog behaviour is more influenced by upbringing and training than breed.
• All dogs have the potential to display aggressive behaviour under certain conditions.
• Responsible dog owners are unfairly targeted by breed specific legislation.
• Education and community support are crucial for improving dog safety.
• Existing animal welfare laws should be enforced rather than creating new breed bans.
• The stigma surrounding certain breeds affects their adoption and treatment in shelters.
• Community-led initiatives can provide better support for dog guardians. 

Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.