New dangerous dogs law after spate of attacks in England and Wales could fine people or have their pet seized
A new crackdown on XL bullies and other dangerous dogs will make it illegal to leave children under 12 alone with them in England and Wales.
There has been a spate of attacks on children by dogs from certain dangerous breeds, including one on a 10-year-old girl who died last year after being attacked by the family pet, an XL bully. A nine-month-old baby was also mauled to death last year by a dog of that breed.
Under new legislation, laid in parliament on Tuesday, people who leave children unattended with dangerous dogs face fines and having their dogs seized.
The XL bully, an American pitbull-type breed, is incredibly strong and can weigh up to 60kg (9st 6lb). The breed has been responsible for a spate of attacks. Ownership is restricted under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 and since 1 February 2024 it has been a criminal offence to own an XL bully without an exemption certificate.
