HUMZA Yousaf confirmed at FMQs on Thursday that new restrictions on XL bully dogs are to be introduced.
The First Minister said the legislation in Scotland would “in essence replicate” recent legislation introduced in England and Wales.
In a post on Twitter/X, he said: “The UK Government introduced XL bully restrictions without consulting @ScotGov.
The UK Government introduced XL Bully restrictions without consulting @ScotGov. We've since seen concerning reports of a flow of XL Bully dogs to Scotland. To avoid unacceptable risks to public safety and animal welfare, we will urgently put in place new safeguards. pic.twitter.com/CuLShJ911t
— Humza Yousaf (@HumzaYousaf) January 11, 2024
“We’ve since seen concerning reports of a flow of XL bully dogs to Scotland. To avoid unacceptable risks to public safety and animal welfare, we will urgently put in place new safeguards.”
What will the new legislation mean?
The Scottish Government’s website sets out exactly what the new safeguards will mean for XL bully dogs.
It says the legislation will “mirror what has been introduced in England and Wales” and stop Scotland from becoming a “dumping ground” for this breed.
“Under the new rules, existing owners will be required to consider whether they wish to keep their dogs,” the Scottish Government says.
“If they do, they will have to apply and pay a fee for an exemption permit. This will require owners to ensure appropriate safeguards are taken for their XL bully dogs such as muzzling when in public, being on a lead when in public, taking out insurance and neutering their dogs.”
It will also be illegal to sell this breed, abandon a dog or give it away under the new legislation.
When will the legislation be introduced?
The guidance is still subject to Parliamentary approval and the Minister for Victims and Community Safety Siobhian Brown will make a statement to Parliament next week on the new safeguards.
What has the First Minister said?
Yousaf (below) has said the Scottish Government recognised the “vast majority of dog owners are responsible animal lovers”.
However, he added that the implications of the UK Government’s measures has led to the Scottish Government bringing forward new safeguards.
“It is essential Scotland is not adversely impacted because of any loopholes created as a consequence of the introduction of the UK Government’s policy in England and Wales,” he said.
“Recent reports of XL bully dogs being moved to Scotland from south of the Border are concerning and it’s important we do not become a dumping ground for the breed, leading to unacceptable risks to public safety and animal welfare.
“We will be working at pace to bring forward necessary regulations to mirror the system introduced in England and Wales as soon as possible.
“We continue to engage with key stakeholders going forward and to offer practical support to help owners comply with these new safeguards.”
