Keeping XL Bullies is now illegal in England and Wales. A similar ban is soon to come into force in Scotland.
Several people had previously been attacked by such dogs, and some died, including children. Animal rights activists criticize that a ban will not solve the problems. Rather, dangers could increase because dogs lack exercise. There are too few veterinarians and shelters to deal with a possible increase in neutering and euthanasia. And questions remain, for example, about the number of animals. In the autumn, the Environment Ministry estimated the population in Britain at 10,000 animals.