The XL Bully Ban: Impacts of Breed Specific Legislation on Exempted Dogs and Their Caregivers

By Melanie Flynn, John Walliss, Daniel Allen

In England and Wales, the controversial decision was made to add American XL Bully-type dogs to the prohibited breeds list of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. The XL Bully Ban is the first book on this topic that explores the impacts on caregivers and, uniquely, their exempted dogs.

Informed by a critical review of breed-specific legislation, the authors highlight the lack of consideration of the impacts of the XL Bully 'ban' on caregivers and exempted dogs themselves. By delving into these impacts, which include financial, emotional, practical, and quality-of-life issues, and giving voice to caregivers and companion animals, this book contributes towards building an evidence-base that can be considered in relation to future global debates. Considering alternative methods of reducing dog attacks, the authors draw out the implications of their findings for policymakers as well the wider, international debate on breed-specific legislation.

The first book written on this contemporary topic, this is cutting edge reading for scholars interested in human-animal interactions, issues of species justice, sentience and victimology, breed specific legislation, and harm-reduction. It is also of interest to practitioners and advocates working with those affected by the ban, and policymakers as they consider how to respond to continued reports of dog attacks.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1837089337
• ISBN13: 9781837089338
• Release Date: December 2025
• Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited
• Length: 196 Pages