XL bully dogs: What are the rules in Scotland? How do they differ in England?

A woman has died in London after being attacked by her two XL bully dogs - but what exactly are the new rules around this breed?

A woman in London has died after being attacked by her two XL bully dogs.

The woman was treated by paramedics after being attacked in her own home, but tragically died at the scene on Monday afternoon. This is believed to be the first fatal attack by XL bully dogs since new rules came into force banning these dogs in England and Wales unless the owner has an exemption certificate. 

But what exactly are the rules, and how do they differ in Scotland than in England and Wales?

What are the rules in Scotland?

In Scotland, new rules placing restrictions on XL bully dogs came into force on February 23. It is now illegal to breed, sell, exchange, gift, advertise, rehome, abandon or allow one of these dogs to stray.

Owners must also have their dogs neutered, microchipped and muzzled and on a lead when in public, including when in a car. Anyone found to be breaching the rules could face a fine of up to six months’ imprisonment and a fine of up to £5,000.

Further rules will come into effect later in the year. From August 1, it will be illegal to own an XL bully dog in Scotland unless a person has an exemption certificate or has applied for one and is waiting for it to be processed.

The deadline to apply for an exemption certificate is July 31. 

READ MORE: Looking After XL Bullies: Here's everything owners of banned dog breeds need to know - including the law

How does this differ from England and Wales?

In England and Wales, it is already an offence to own an XL bully dog without an exemption certificate. This rule came into force on February 1.

The woman who died this week had exemption certificates for both her dogs, and was therefore not in breach of the law.

As the ban is already in force south of the border, the deadline to apply for an exemption certificate has also passed. All new applications now need to be authorised by a court order.

Similarly, XL bully dogs in England and Wales have to be neutered, microchipped and muzzled and on a lead when in public. What is classed as an XL bully dog is the same across Scotland, England and Wales.