XL bully ban leads to 18 euthanised dogs in Suffolk

Why it matters: The figures highlight the local impact of national legislation that banned ownership of XL bullies without exemption certificates from January 31, 2024.

By the numbers: Freedom of Information request data shows:

• 33 of the 60 banned and dangerous dogs seized by Suffolk Constabulary in 2024 were suspected XL bullies

• 36 banned or dangerous dogs were euthanised by Suffolk police last year

• 18 of those euthanised were XL bullies

• Some dogs may have been seized in previous years but put down in 2024

The bigger picture: Across England and Wales:

• 3,464 suspected XL bullies were seized last year by the 36 police forces that provided data

• They accounted for around half of the 7,004 suspected banned or dangerous dogs seized

• 1,275 XL bullies were euthanised, representing 53% of all dangerous dogs put down

What they're saying: An RSPCA spokesperson said: "It's heartbreaking to hear about anyone who has been injured by a dog or families who have lost a loved one in a dog-related incident. But it's also devastating to hear about so many dogs who have lost their lives simply because they are considered to be a certain type."

The charity added many banned dogs were likely "much-loved family pets" that had shown no sign of dangerous behaviour, but came to police attention "because of their looks".

The financial burden: The National Police Chiefs' Council said the ban has placed a "huge burden" on policing:

• Kennelling costs and veterinary bills in England and Wales rose from £4 million in 2018 to more than £11 million between February and September 2024

• By April this year, forces predict they could have spent £25 million – a 500% rise from 2018

• Estimated cost to euthanise dogs between February and September 2024 was £340,000

• It can cost around £1,000 a month to keep an XL bully in a kennel

The government's position: A government spokesperson said: "The ban on XL bullies is there to protect public safety and we expect all XL bully owners to comply with the strict conditions. Ongoing dog attacks show we need to do more to protect communities."

The bottom line: Over 57,000 XL bullies have been registered with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, but those without exemption certificates continue to be seized and sometimes euthanised under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.