In a recent development, Home Secretary Suella Braverman has taken a firm stance on the issue of American XL bully dogs, emphasising their potential threat to public safety, particularly to children. Ms. Braverman announced her intent to seek advice on the possibility of outlawing these dogs following a distressing incident involving an 11-year-old girl in Birmingham.

The incident that ignited the Home Secretary’s concern occurred in the Bordesley Green area of Birmingham, where an American XL bully dog attacked an 11-year-old girl and two men who courageously intervened to protect her. West Midlands Police swiftly launched an investigation into the matter.

Expressing her deep concern for public safety, Suella Braverman stated, “This is appalling. The American XL Bully is a clear and lethal danger to our communities, particularly to children.” Her reaction underscores the urgency of addressing the potential risks posed by these dogs.

To tackle the issue head-on, Ms. Braverman has commissioned “urgent advice” on the possibility of prohibiting American XL bully dogs. However, this move has sparked internal debates within the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (Defra), which is responsible for maintaining the list of banned breeds. Some officials express concerns about the feasibility of implementing such a ban, given that the American XL bully is not officially recognised as a specific breed by the Kennel Club.

Defining the American XL bully as a distinct breed could pose challenges, and there are apprehensions that a ban might unintentionally encompass other dog breeds. This concern underscores the need for careful consideration and thorough research before taking any regulatory action.

It is important to note that dogs on the banned breeds list are subject to strict legal restrictions in the United Kingdom. Ownership, breeding, or sale of these dogs is prohibited by law.