New XL Bully law: children under 12 must not be left alone with banned dogs from today
The new 'child protection condition' applies to owners of XL Bully dogs and all other dogs kept under an exemption certificate in Scotland.
An American Bully-type dog. File photo. · Photograph: Paluar (CC BY-SA 3.0)
New rules have come into force in Scotland requiring owners of XL Bully dogs and other banned breeds not to leave them alone with young children.
From today, 1 November, owners of any prohibited dog kept under an exemption certificate must not leave children under 12 unattended with the dog in a private place, including a home or garden, without appropriate supervision.
What does the law say?
The Scottish Government calls it the child protection condition. It applies to XL Bully dogs and all other dogs banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 that are kept legally under an exemption.
If proper supervision is not possible, the child and the dog must be kept apart in a way that prevents any physical contact.
Why now?
The government describes the rule as a preventative measure to reduce known risks to children at home. Its guidance says young children are at higher risk of dog-related injuries at home, often involving a dog they know, and that children may behave in ways some dogs find uncomfortable, such as sudden movements, loud noises or getting too close.
Advice for other owners
The guidance is aimed at owners of exempted dogs, but the government says it may also be relevant to anyone with a dog and children in the same home. It says all dog owners are already expected to act responsibly when children are present.
Owners of XL Bully dogs in Scotland have had to hold an exemption certificate, or have applied for one, since restrictions were introduced in 2024. Breaching the conditions of an exemption is a criminal offence.