XL Bully Dogs Banned: What you need to know

After a spike in attacks American XL Bullies are now banned in England and Wales. Does banning breeds work? Or does science point to a better indicator for aggression? What makes a dog dangerous? And how can you tell if a dog is going to bite?
Sit down every week with The Dog Scholar to unpick a new big question about dogs. Prof Sab brings the latest scientific research, Danny and Jamie bring 20 years of experience working with and training thousands of dogs. Takeaway fun facts, bust your own long held myths, and get to know humans' best friends in a completely new way.
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Copyright WillCarne Originals 2023.
- - References - -
Reisner, I. R., Mann, J. J., Stanley, M., Huang, Y. Y., & Houpt, K. A. (1996). Comparison of cerebrospinal fluid monoamine metabolite levels in dominant-aggressive and non-aggressive dogs. Brain research, 714(1-2), 57-64.
Owczarczak-Garstecka, S. C., Watkins, F., Christley, R., & Westgarth, C. (2018). Online videos indicate human and dog behaviour preceding dog bites and the context in which bites occur. Scientific reports, 8(1), 7147.

[@barbaramongoose9]

This is the most balanced and reasonable discussion on this very emotive subject. Thank you.

[@miriamnewbury1044]

Sadly it will be mastiffs next if the govt doesn't control breeding, advertising selling and ownership. Calvary managed it and massively reduced dog bite occurrences

[@user-vg8qu3os8n]

I have a pit bull mastiff mix that came from the pound we didn't know he was mastiff until he started growing up and got huge

[@wallsofgab]

It's so hard reaching out to the people who need to be reached out to - the people who look at these dogs and say "Well mine would never" and "they're just house hippos". I have an APBT mix, and despite her mix in genetics... she is what she is, and she displays it every time when it matters the most. We've worked very hard for her to be a stable and safe member in our community, and she's a happy fulfilled dog. I've been called a gatekeeper for saying that we can have our dogs in jammies, bowties, glitter and whatnot... that part doesn't matter. What matters is that we know what we have and we act accordingly. If we don't, we lose the privilege... as the UK is now experiencing. Many struggle to understand that it isn't just the tough guy with the uncontrollable bully contributing to this, it's also the well meaning person with a dog that they love that doesn't realise that /love isn't enough/ too.

[@fraukeschmidt8364]

Very interesting and helpful video.

[@sharoncunningham6826]

Very much looking forward to your return and this episode! 👏🏻

[@user-or9mb2su5n]

Really informative. Sharing this. Well done.

[@anpuase6370]

False propaganda

[@benjawanhargrove6313]

This is very informative. Thank you

[@eskimo3622]

Its kind of common sense that if a breed, not well socialised, bred or trained, is capable of pulling an adult human man to the floor and then mauling them to death over 30mins, then that breed really isnt an ideal pet for the general UK public. Especially not right now with the positive only training trend! When it comes to pits and XL's, I would argue that the dog can appear to be a nice friendly dog and still get triggered due to prey drive and their GENETIC FIGHTING INSTINCTS. Ive seen it happen, the dogs are excited and having a good time throughout the mauling. Prey drive aggression is the most scary, its silent and there is no emotion just pure arousal.

[@craigbrown9157]

not sociallization or training...the breed

[@sharonwhyte2651]

🙏 great information, sound advice

[@valeriemcdonagh5376]

I've been around dogs for 40 years. Always understood their genetics, traits, etc, to train and work them. Folk don't seem to do that anymore - they select dogs based on "looks" and don't understand that genetics matter. To get a certain look, they crossbreed them, eg AmBully. Also, see a trend in humanising dogs - they are not nanny dogs or fur babies - popular phrases associated with a 60 to 100lb bully ! that has the capability to kill in the bat of an eyelid - compared to a chihuahua that might require a few stitches. The number of videos I see of kids crawling over bullies to prove a point is alarming.

[@TheGrindcorps]

Chihuahua is usually a very mean very aggressive dog though. American Bully is one of the least prone to aggression according to behavioral studies. Thing is, any large dog can still seriously hurt people if not properly trained, looked after and socialized responsibly. I have seen some very mean and aggressive dangerous labradors.

[@TheGrindcorps]

@AIuzky as far as dog breeds go Pitbulls don’t even have that strong of a bite force.

[@dawnetaverner1382]

In todays world I see zero reason for creating a big, powerful monster mutt”. The big dogs are WORKING BREEDS!!! They simply are not made to be anybody’s pet. They aren’t made and given a job they are hardwired for genetically. They just aren’t need in a time with so many shelters…and sadly these dogs can or will end up there.

[@TheGrindcorps]

@@dawnetaverner1382 false. XL bully is bred specifically for good temperament to be a companion breed. It is no more dangerous than a Great Dane, St. Bernard or Mastiff breed. I like a big dog because it is the best kind of lap dog to cuddle with. Being a working breed has nothing to do with size at this point. Within one breed there are different lines too, such as show line, working line, companion line. It’s honestly racist discrimination. People fear Bully breeds in North America and UK because they are popular with non white people. If the Great Dane was popular among black people, then everyone would be talking about how evil it is.

[@alisonleiper9913]

It sickens me that people are so deluded when it comes to XL bullys. They don't understand. They are ticking time bombs. They are mostly pitbulls that are imported sperm from America!

[@navdeeprehill1957]

Very informative episode

[@artemthepunchbaglobov4483]

This was a great episode 👌🏻

[@user-xg9js9bo6x]

Another dog expert here and I have to say that having the bans on all aversive tools and methods. You need to be able to use all quadrants of dog training. This is ridiculous. I do also see the need for BSL, people just get all kinds of dogs and assume they can love the genetics out of them. You need to understand what you have and take appropriate steps to ensure that dog is not going to be a threat to others. Unfortunately there is no way to control who owns what breeds. That said, this is a slippery slope and I don’t think BSL is ever the answer.

[@alisonleiper9913]

I'm really fed up with so called dog trainers defending and promoting this breed. The XL bully is not a breed fit for purpose full stop. It is mostly Pitbull and is imported sperm from America. This is not like Amy other dog breed. IT WILL FIGHT TO THE DEATH!! Why are you people so naive!?

[@georgecollins1183]

Hi all just caught up with the latest podcast. As always so much useful information for those watching and the wider public. Lets hope owners of the type take it onboard and comply with the legislation. G.

[@lynseycarswell6215]

Absolutely spot on about people who humanise their dogs which has led to a very serious problem. Humanising our dogs creates a sense of complacency in households and frustration in dogs as their needs are not being met appropriately. They are not our human babies they are animals and need to be treated as such.

[@sabrinahorne1978]

Exactly since this trend of humanizing dogs began, dog behaviour Issues especially aggression has risen so much, it’s insane. The so called best dog owner today are often the ones with dogs with the best issues and will blame it on everything but them and the changes in the way dogs are trained, so called canine behaviour science which is bias because of its connection to big business

[@JoJo_GSD]

🙌 thank you. 👍🐾❤️

[@kellywareham295]

This trainer is spot on.

[@lynread5773]

Just to say that many years ago (early 80s) I looked after a pit bull and a pekinese whilst their owners were away. The pit is the only dog that has made the hair on the back of my neck stand.. She was pure muscle. You couldn't looknhef in the eye but other than that she was OK. When I took them out for walks the pit was good as gold. The pekinese wanted to start a war with every other dog it saw!!

[@lynread5773]

I understand that these dogs are incredibly strong and have a massive and powerful bite and something needs to be done. My concern is that unless action is taken against the unscrupulous breeders who have been "putting these animals together just to achieve a certain look" will now turn their attention to mixing some other breeds to come up with something equally dangerous. People talk about licensing.. We had dog licenses years ago. It didn't work. It can't be policed. Dogs are legally supposed to be chipped but how many times do we see that the chip hasn't been registered or updated!! I believe in the US the largest number of dog bites are from Labs. Is this because they are the most numerous ? Is their breeding unregulated so that they get mixed, even slightly, or inbred? I hope banning works, however sad it is for caring and responsible owners.. But I just have my doubts!

[@maxine4898]

I’ve got Chihuahuas and I’ve been bitten but they only leave a little scratch or a tiny bruise, but small dogs are a lot more fearful than big dogs.

[@vikingdogmanship]

chihuahuas and GSD are just as noisy anxious and fearful. sooo

[@TheGrindcorps]

I really don’t like small dogs because most small really small dogs I have ever met tend to be reaaaaly mean!

[@vikingdogmanship]

@@TheGrindcorps I like all dogs. Because i train them😊

[@lennylink8772]

If you can't train a small dog, don't get a large dog..... you will have the same results.

[@michelle-vd8nd]

The XL bully is not recognised by the American Kennel Club. They can be registered with the ABKC or UKC. Totally agree with your sentiment though, its unfair on the dogs to not be honest about what they are capable of.

[@unleashedk9servicesdannywe703]

You’re absolutely right. We’re knowledgeable on behaviour and aim to educate with the goal of helping dog owners and dogs themselves. After a long day of filming these things happen, unfortunately. We’re all human beings and mistakes happen. I’ll post a video correcting myself later this week and bring to light the recent changes in legislation.

[@michelle-vd8nd]

@@unleashedk9servicesdannywe703 thanks for replying, much respect to you for all you do to help dogs and owners 👍

[@rachelpenny5165]

My friend has a rescue XL bully. He is so soft and gentle. He is as soft and goofy as our golden retrievers. He was scared of me when he first met me, now he just wants cuddles. In my personal opinion 99% of dangerous dogs are due to the breeders and owners. Our golden retrievers are spoilt (not to their detriment) but they know their limits. They are as soft and cuddly and love everyone, especially kids. I have known of a golden retriever to go for it's owner (my half sister's grandparent). I was never comfortable with that dog. He was put to sleep after biting the owner. I did hear at one point that a lab was the breed with the highest bites on humans. Thank you for this. It was interesting.

[@anniwilson2534]

I’d heard that lab bite statistic too but wondered if it was because more people own labs?

[@fakesox3550]

You are the problem

[@craigbrown9157]

dangerously false myth....not breeders or owners...the breed...they can't help it and neither can you

[@craigbrown9157]

@@anniwilson2534 pit bulls don't "bite"..the majority of toddlers killed by them are decapitated or partially decapitated......that's not a "bite"

[@HeatherDMorris]

What are the warning signs. The breed

[@kellywareham295]

people aslo need to check there behaviour around dogs . As a dog walker I have had so many cases where people have behaved silly around the dogs i walk ie screaming running or pushing one another infront of the dogs to get a reaction out of the dogs to scare there friends.

[@sarahjane9285]

If the stats are only 7% for both section 1 and section 3 offences, does this not show that bans work? Exempted dogs must wear leads and muzzles so less likley to cause section 3 offences. We see XLs disproportionately cause the most injuries/fatalities it would be interesting to see the stats in 5/10 years

[@freakygoblin3068]

Unfortunately it doesn't show breed bans working. Number of dog attacks on people leading to hospitalisation has consistently risen after the pitbull type ban in the UK, they were not reduced.

[@luisscrivs3695]

It isn't the breed, it is the owners ability to house, train and whether they can provide enough stimuli and companionship to safely own and house their dog properly. Some potential owners need training themselves before they own a large breed of dog perhaps? Banning specific breed types will not address this problem whatsoever.

[@fakesox3550]

You are wrong. By your logic you can train any dog for any situation. You are not going to convince me that you can train a shihtzu to be a police dog like you would a German shepherd. The breed has A LOT to do with it. Stop deluding yourself.

[@joshmuflahi5919]

@@fakesox3550he’s not wrong a good trainer and a good responsible dog owner can make a bad dog ok.

[@jessi4894]

Why do people acknowledge that Border Collies herd, Labs retrieve, but when it's a pit bull, literally bred for bull BAITING in a PIT, absolutely all logic goes out the window and the "It's all how you raise them" bullshit starts. You cannot train genetics out of a dog, and pitbulls were bred to bite, hold and shake to death.

[@Oakleaf700]

@@fakesox3550 Spot on. It's ALL about DNA. We had a Lurcher years ago and she was hardwired to hunt and chase -she was never taught or trained to hunt, it was instinct.

[@dawnetaverner1382]

The treating them like people comment really rang true for me after seeing people carrying their large breed dogs on escalators and snowy or rain wee ground!! It’s nuts!! Said dog usually is wearing some item of human apparel.

[@miriamnewbury1044]

Just about to say let the dog come to you.

[@CenkHoca]

I known people that select the most aggressive ones and breed them and that's what some people want, they thşnk they will be good guard dogs but they make shit guard dogs...

[@juliereid7496]

My bully is nearly 3 he’s totally refusing to wear a muzzle I’ve bought 3 different ones, tried spread tube cheese, treats the lot he runs to his cage.

[@user-sc5nw4uy8l]

Don't muzzle your bully we tried it with ours and he fucking hated it started freaking out

[@juliereid7496]

@@user-sc5nw4uy8l still can’t get him to wear one, god knows what am going to do, he’s only been out back garden, bloody shame for him, he’s a big softie, he’s been attacked 5 times bigger dogs, small dogs snap at him..

[@juliereid7496]

@@user-sc5nw4uy8l I could end up serious bother though if I take him out.

[@chuckycheese13]

Funny the 1 channel to try to teach. Yet very few views. Its a sham that people watch the news but lack to lean facts. Dogs do what they no, An what we teach. An the dog is An animal. Any trates in human plants animals. We are to blame but humans tend to pass that along😢

[@markreed1828]

People do have to come first and that's the most important thing regardless of what animal it is. The thing is most dog animals are bred for something and unfortunately as humans, we have forgotten that over the years now what we are left with now is most people buying dogs for family pets and not the original purpose the dog was bred for this is where we have the problem with your small dogs to your big dogs and unless all dogs get proper trained then they can all turn if pushed whether that's another dog that makes the original calm dog afraid and acting out of self defence to later on thinking all dogs or humans are against them. It's proven that a dog can act out of fear or it can also sense that the human is insecure and feel that it needs to protect. The bottom line is a small dogs can have and impact on a another small dogs temperament and this can happen with both big dogs and vice versa. Again the bottom line is humans are the source of the problem the goverment or people who we vote to be in charge are as guilty as the owner for any dog attacks in history people might not want to hear this but we are the source of the dogs teaching and behaviour from a Young age so practically unless you are a trainer and your dog won't leave your side and wonder off to another dog then they should all be on a lead and if its known to bite whether its a small bite or a big one then it should be muzzled and on the lead at all times. No one has the right to condemn a certain breed more then the other breed as we have caused these problems from the beginning and again instead of us all accepting liability we blame a certain breed again if we were all responsible then there would have never been a dog attack in history unless the dog was breed for that reason sadly people have used dogs for many different reasons game hunting and so on man kind is the problem time after time man/women. I love dogs but humans are more important but every dog that has life in it deserves to have the same treatment as every other dog. All dog needs to be properly trained that will be more affective then killing off any breed. Wake up people use money and resources to better equipped owners or make a licence to own any dog and put rules into place that all owners regardless of the breed should follow. And if then the owner doesn't follow them and the dogs out of control to the point its aggressive towards humans or any other dog then sadly put it to sleep and hold the owner responsible under the licence and rules and the consequences of breaking the agreement like a lot of people say there's good people who own xl bullies and then there people who own them for the wrong reasons whats to stop them from getting another type of dog regardless of how big or small it may be under the wrong training that dog can cause fear to any humans and have the potential to hurt an adult or killing a baby. Please somebody who can make a difference put this into the eyes of the government and make a true change as this law isn't even an attempt to take away the harm that dogs can do under the wrong hands its an attempt to pass the blame until the next breed comes along

[@miriamnewbury1044]

Unless they bring back licenses with attached requirement to train .. Dog men will just produce another bull n terrier mix or worse .

[@maxine4898]

I agree about dogs being humanised, mine ARE humanised, they are like babies but they are really small and I know they can’t harm me.

[@joshmuflahi5919]

Your dogs could absolutely harm you, I’m not saying they will but I got bitten by my friends 7kg, 14 year old deaf and blind patterdale terrier she had about 5 teeth and she made a real mess of my leg, if that was my Face I would be scarred for life. She died of old age about a week later.

[@pauldicken1694]

Now they banned cane corso breeding n ownership will go up n they problem will be the same...in my area they're loads wiv inexperienced owners.belgim malinois aswell since John wick.its a shame on the dogs

[@miriamnewbury1044]

No one should be surprised that a pit bull terrier x with an americsn stafford bull terrier is dog aggressive. Many breeds of terrier have been used.for dog fighting in past they lack that added tenacity adding bull dog in created and xls are double wammy on both input breed group.

[@levikendall1788]

Was not bred to be big and powerful. And actually have a low bite force comparatively to many other dogs.

[@chuckycheese13]

Funny you guys that even say kids scream An yet i have never see a adult teach their kid to act (not run scream around a dog) ect That why we will be' back here Lack of education The $ in breeding An truly that they are animals

[@brandanhoward4974]

All dogs have aggressive nature this is not right

[@baronvonhoughton]

The scouse fella is a bit intense. Needs to relax.

[@janethuntington7365]

How can you garner respect when the first sentence out of your mouth is either a lie or ignorant? "Neither the International Canine Federation, The Kennel Club, nor American Kennel Club (AKC) have recognized or accepted the American Bully into their registry as a purebred dog." These damn dogs are dangerous enough without adding false information.

[@unleashedk9servicesdannywe703]

You’re absolutely right. We’re knowledgeable on behaviour and aim to educate with the goal of helping dog owners and dogs themselves. After a long day of filming these things happen, unfortunately. We’re all human beings and mistakes happen. I’ll post a video correcting myself later this week and bring to light the recent changes in legislation.

[@anpuase6370]

Emphatically incorrect

[@anpuase6370]

Faulse propaganda