From October 1st 2024, new regulations ban the importing, breeding, selling and re-homing of XL Bully type dogs.
From February 1st 2025, it will be illegal to own an XL Bully type dog without a ‘Certificate of Exemption’ issued by the local authority in which the dog resides.
XL Bully owners will have between October 1st 2024 and 31st January 2025 to apply for a Certificate of Exemption in accordance with the Control of Dogs (XL Bully) Regulations 2024 (S.I. No. 491 of 2024). A Certificate of Exemption is issued by the Local Authority and authorises the owner of an XL Bully type dog to keep that dog at a particular premises until the natural end of the dog’s life.
After February 1st 2025 all XL Bully type dog owners should either be in possession of a Certificate of Exemption or have proof that they applied for a Certificate of Exemption.
Please see the below FAQ document for more information on the legislation, guidance on how to complete the application form, and forms to be completed by you and a registered vet. We have also included a guide to measuring your dog. If you are unsure of how to measure your dog or whether your dog fits the profile of an XL Bully please contact CSPCA at 021 451 5534 or info@cspca.ie
Completed forms, along with supporting documents, must be returned via email to doglicence@corkcity.ie or by post to the below address:
Dog Licence Section
Room 113
City Hall
Anglesea Street
Cork
T12 T997
Please note as a cross of restricted breeds, XL Bully type dogs are subject to additional restrictions as designated under “Restricted Breeds”, Control of Dogs Regulation 1998.
These dogs are subject by law to the following restrictions when in a public place:
