XL bullies were banned in the UK in 2024 due to a series of alarming incidents involving the breed. These dogs have been associated with a notable increase in attacks, prompting authorities to take action against their ownership. It is now illegal to own an XL bully without a certificate of exemption, reflecting growing concerns over public safety.
The situation escalated dramatically when 84-year-old John McColl was attacked by an XL bully named Toretto on February 24 last year. This tragic incident has brought renewed attention to the dangers posed by this breed, particularly after McColl succumbed to his injuries. The attack occurred around 18:00 GMT, and police marksmen were forced to shoot Toretto ten times to subdue the animal.
Sean Garner, the owner of Toretto, is currently on trial for owning a dog that caused injury while dangerously out of control. During the trial, Garner claimed that McColl had released the dog from a shed prior to the attack. He described Toretto’s behavior as “brilliant” and “perfect” around other dogs and people, raising questions about the circumstances leading to the attack.
Garner had owned Toretto for approximately four-and-a-half years but failed to inform his landlord about owning two XL bullies and one micro bully dog. This lack of transparency has further complicated the case, as it highlights potential negligence regarding the breed’s ownership.
The kennel owner, who has witnessed a rise in dog bites during holiday periods, expressed deep concern over the XL bully breed. “I dread the phone ringing,” he stated, emphasizing the fear and uncertainty surrounding these dogs. He added, “It shows you the destruction they can do,” underscoring the potential dangers associated with XL bullies.
As the trial progresses, observers are keenly watching how this case will influence future legislation regarding dog breeds in the UK. With the ongoing discussions about public safety and breed-specific legislation, officials may consider stricter regulations to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the broader implications of this case on XL bully ownership in the UK, but the tragic death of John McColl has undoubtedly reignited the debate over the breed’s safety and the responsibilities of dog owners.