Jim Gillies CDBC is a highly experienced and qualified dog behaviourist in Glasgow. With over a decade of experience working with dogs and their owners, Jim has earned a reputation as a trusted expert in his field. He is dedicated to promoting positive reinforcement and reward-based training techniques, always prioritising the well-being of the dogs he works with.
American Bully Insurance in the UK
This article delves into the intricacies of American Bully, also known as American Bull Terrier XL, insurance in the UK. The American Bully or XL Bully, a breed not recognised as distinct by the UK Kennel Club, has been in the spotlight due to potential regulations. For other information about XL Bully’s, head back to our comprehensive guide. You can read more about the impending XL Bully Ban in our detailed article.
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Why Insure Your American Bully in the UK?
The American Bully XL, also known as American Bull Terrier XL, a breed that has garnered significant attention in the UK, finds itself at the crossroads of potential regulations and widespread misconceptions. These factors underscore the paramount importance of securing insurance for this breed.
The regulatory changes highlight where owning an American Bully XL might come with added responsibilities and potential challenges. In such a scenario, having insurance becomes not just a recommendation but a necessity. It acts as a safeguard against the unpredictable, ensuring that owners are not caught off guard by sudden medical expenses or legal complications.
Moreover, the misconceptions surrounding the American Bully XL breed further emphasise the need for insurance. Due to these misconceptions, the breed is often perceived in a negative light, which can lead to unexpected situations or disputes. Insurance serves as a buffer in such instances, providing owners with the assurance that they have a safety net in place.
Understanding the recent XL Bully Ban in the UK
The UK government has recently enacted laws banning the American Bully, also known as American Bull Terrier XL, effective from 31 December 2023. This move follows a concerning rise in fatal attacks, leading to the breed’s inclusion in the list of prohibited dog breeds. Owners must now adhere to specific regulations, including keeping their dogs on a lead and muzzled in public, and registering them on the Index of Exempted Dogs by 1 February 2024 to retain ownership. It’s crucial for owners to stay updated on these changes and comply with the new laws to avoid severe penalties. You can read more about the impending ban in our article on Understanding the Future Potential of XL Bully Ban.
American Bully XL – UK Regulations Update
The American Bully XL, also known as American Bull Terrier XL, breed in the UK is facing regulations, including a ban by the end of 2023. This has made insuring the breed more critical than ever. The breed is not recognised by the UK Kennel Club but is acknowledged by the US United Kennel Club. Owners are advised to stay updated on regulations, ensure their dogs are insured, and implement measures like muzzling, neutering, and microchipping.
- Effective 31 December 2023, it’s illegal to breed, sell, advertise, rehome, abandon, or allow XL Bully dogs to stray in England and Wales.
- Owners must keep these dogs on a lead and muzzled in public, with training advised beforehand.
- From 1 February 2024, owning an XL Bully dog is illegal unless registered on the Index of Exempted Dogs.
- To retain ownership, dogs must be registered, muzzled, leashed in public, microchipped, and neutered.
- Non-compliance risks criminal records, unlimited fines, and possible seizure of the dog.
American Bully XL: A Brief Overview
The American Bully XL or American Bull Terrier XL stands out as the largest variant within its breed classifications. Despite its crossbreed status in the UK, the US United Kennel Club recognised it in 2013. The breed’s varied appearance makes it challenging to identify, leading the UK government to establish a distinct breed standard. For a comprehensive understanding of the breed and its history, refer to our detailed guide on The American XL Bully Dog.
Insurance Providers for American Bully in the UK
Navigating the insurance landscape for your American Bully or American Bull Terrier XL can be daunting. It is recommended you contact each insurer individually to ascertain if they are covering XL Bully breeds at the moment.
We are working hard to identify and work with insurance affiliates that will hopefully offer policies. We completely understand how frustrating this situation is and we are trying our best to assist in any way we can. Please note we do not actually provide insurance policies, we are working to provide policies in the future through affiliates.
Steps for American Bully Owners in Light of the Potential Ban
With the looming ban, it’s essential for American Bully XL owners to be proactive. Consider having your dog neutered, microchipped, and trained to wear a muzzle. Additionally, explore third-party liability insurance options to ensure you’re covered.
You can register your American Bully at the UK Bully Kennel Club
Essential Products for Your American XL Bully
As a responsible American XL Bully owner, it’s crucial to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet, as well as adhere to legal guidelines, especially in the light of the potential regulations regarding muzzling and leashing of XL Bullies.
We have curated a list of indispensable products that not only aim at complying with the impending laws but also ensure a positive and comfortable experience for your beloved bully:
Basket Muzzle
Fitting your XL Bully with a muzzle is now a legal requirement from 31st December 2023. Our selected muzzle through Amazon is designed for the comfort and breathability of your XL Bully, providing a secure fit while allowing your dog to pant and drink water.
 | Top Selling Basket Muzzle
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Harness
A harness provides better control and distributes pressure evenly across the chest and shoulders, which is much safer than traditional collars, especially for robust breeds like the American XL Bully.
 | Top Selling Ruffwear Harness
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Multi-Clip Training Lead
A multi-clip training lead offers versatility with adjustable length settings, ideal for training, walking, or ensuring your bully stays close in crowded or high-traffic areas
 | Top Selling Multi-clip Training Lead
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How can I seek an exemption?
Following the recent legislation, to retain ownership of American Bully XL’s, owners must register their dogs on the Index of Exempted Dogs by 1 February 2024. The dogs must be microchipped, neutered, and kept on a lead and muzzled in public. Failure to comply will result in penalties including criminal records and unlimited fines. It’s advisable to stay updated on the latest regulations and ensure compliance to avoid legal repercussions. We’ll continue to update our website as more information becomes available.
Insurance Concerns and New Regulations for American Bully XL Owners
In light of the recent ban on American Bully XLs effective 31 December 2023, obtaining comprehensive insurance has become crucial. Insurance aids in covering unexpected medical costs and provides liability coverage, especially important with the new regulations. From 1 February 2024, owners must register their dogs on the Index of Exempted Dogs, ensuring they are microchipped, neutered, and kept on a lead and muzzled in public.
Alongside adhering to these regulations, it’s advisable to have third-party liability insurance to mitigate legal liabilities. Proactively training your dog to adapt to these changes, like being comfortable with a muzzle, showcases responsible ownership and ensures compliance with the new laws.
About me
Jim Gillies, a Certified Dog Behaviourist and Trainer in Glasgow with over 10 years of experience, prioritises canine well-being through modern, science-backed methods. Handling 4000+ cases of 1-to-1 behaviour training, Jim is fully accredited, insured, and recognised for addressing various behavioural issues including aggression, separation anxiety, and more. Jim holds qualifications in level 5 (merit) Advance Diploma Canine Behaviour Management and level 6 Applied Animal Behaviour. Explore his insightful blog and podcast, sharing expert knowledge on dog training and behaviour. Certified by the IAABC, Jim’s expertise makes him a reliable choice for addressing your dog’s needs.
Contact information
Should you have any questions about this article, feel free to contact me on:
- Email: jim@cbtdogbehaviour.com
Disclaimer
Please note that I am an Amazon Affiliate, and the products recommended in this guide are sold on Amazon. For each product listed, I have provided a hyperlink that directs you to the Amazon page where you can make a purchase. Should you decide to buy any of the products through the provided links, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This affiliate commission helps to support my work and continue providing valuable information to my readers. Thank you for your support!
