XL Bully Air Travel Guide

The XL Bully was added to the UK’s list of banned dog types in 2023, with enforcement beginning 1 February 2024 in England and Wales, followed by Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Under the amended Dangerous Dogs Act, importing an XL Bully into the UK is prohibited. Existing owners who applied for a Certificate of Exemption before the deadline may keep their registered, neutered, microchipped, insured dog under strict conditions, but import of new XL Bullies is banned.

Outside the UK, the situation varies. Other countries are monitoring developments but most have not yet introduced specific XL Bully legislation. The breed is not banned at a federal level in the USA, Australia, Canada, or the EU, though individual states, territories, or municipalities may have restrictions.

If you own an XL Bully and are planning to relocate internationally, the destination country’s current legislation is the first thing to verify. Work with a specialist IPATA-member agent who is tracking active legislative changes.

Airline Restrictions for XL Bully

UK carriers (to/from UK)

Cannot carry XL Bullies to/from UK without exemption certificate

UK ban prohibits import and ownership without a Certificate of Exemption. Airlines will not carry XL Bullies into the UK.

Most non-UK carriers

Varies by destination country

No airline-wide global ban exists outside UK routes. Check destination country laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. The XL Bully was added to the UK’s list of banned dog types under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, with import prohibition effective from 1 February 2024 in England and Wales. Importing an XL Bully into the UK is not permitted.

You can potentially export your XL Bully to a country that does not ban it, but you cannot bring it back. Before exporting, verify the destination country’s laws. Prepare all standard export documentation (microchip, vaccination records, health certificate, government endorsement). Be aware that once exported, the dog cannot legally return to the UK.

Australia does not currently have a specific federal ban on XL Bullies. However, the XL Bully is a type rather than a registered breed, and some Australian states may classify dogs as dangerous on the basis of physical characteristics rather than registered breed. Check with the destination state’s animal management authority.

No federal ban exists. Some US cities and counties with broad pit bull-type BSL may classify XL Bullies under those restrictions. Always check local ordinances at the destination city, not just state law.

The XL Bully is a size category of the American Bully breed, based on height and weight. The UK ban applies to dogs that substantially conform to the XL Bully physical type, regardless of whether they are registered as American Bully XL or another name. The type-based assessment means mixed-breed dogs that resemble XL Bullies can also be affected.

Start your journey

Get Your Free Quote

Enter your pet's details and route

Quotes are tailored to your specific journey.

No obligation. Your details are kept private and never shared.

Get a free pet transport quote

Tell us your route and pet details. We will send you a step-by-step plan and tailored quote.

Request a Quote