My legal responsibilities as a dog owner
From Department of Rural and Community Development
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Rural and Community Development
Published on
Last updated on
From October 1st 2024, new regulations will prohibit the importing, breeding, selling and re-homing of XL Bully dogs.
From February 1st 2025, it will be illegal to own an XL Bully without a ‘Certificate of Exemption’. More information can be found here: Minister Humphreys Announces Ban on XL Bully Dogs
Note: As a cross of restricted breeds, XL Bully dogs are subject to the restrictions listed below as well as the incoming regulations.
Dog owners with questions about the incoming regulations can contact DogControl@drcd.gov.ie
Additional controls apply to the following breeds and type of dog (or strains or crosses of these breeds or type of dogs):
When in a public place, these dogs must be securely muzzled and kept on a strong chain or leash (maximum 2 metres in length) by a person over 16 years of age who is capable of controlling the dog.
Suspected cases of dog cruelty or animal welfare concerns should be reported to: