I own a bully breed mix. Will I be able to keep it ?

Yes, you can keep your bully breed mix. Existing bully breeds, whether purebred or mixed, are not affected by this legislation. However, you must ensure your dog is microchipped and registered electronically identified in line with Subsidiary legislation 437.101 Electronic Identification of Dogs Regulations before the 13th December 2024 to it and ensure it is exempt from the new regulations.

I own a bully breed mix. Will I be able to breed it ?

No, as of the 13th December 2024, it will be illegal to breed mixed bully breed dogs.

I own a pure bred pedigree bully breed. Will I be able to breed it?

Yes, so long as you breed it with another pedigree bred dog and the litter is recognised by a registered kennel club and the dog is issued with a pedigree certificate

What if my bully breed mix accidentally breeds with another dog and has a litter; will I be fined?

Yes, if you are found breeding mixed bully breeds after December 2024, you could face a fine a maximum administrative fine up to€1,000 per dog for the first infringement.

If this fine is not paid with 30 days criminal court proceedings will be undertaken. If multiple serious infringements or are noted if the defaulter has already been found guilty of an offence under the Animal Welfare Act the Director for Animal Welfare may proceed directly with filing criminal charges,

On first conviction a person, shall be liable to a fine (multa) of not less than €2,000, but not exceeding €65,000 or to a term of imprisonment of three (3) years, or to both such fine and imprisonment.

On second or subsequent conviction, a person shall be liable to a fine (multa) of not less than €6,000, but not exceeding €80,000, or to a term of imprisonment of three (3) years, or to both such fine and imprisonment.

If I wanted a bully breed dog as from the 13th December 2024, how can I get one legally?

After December 2024 you can only obtain a bully breed dog legally by purchasing one from a licensed breeder who is registered with a registered kennel club or by adopting one from a licensed sanctuary.

What will happen if an injured bully breed mix is found on the street after 2024 ?

If the dog is chipped prior to December 2024, it will be returned to its owner. If the dog is unchipped, Animal Welfare will collect, and eventually place the injured dog up for adoption.

Why was this law introduced ?

This law aims to reduce overpopulation of bully breed mixes by prohibiting backyard breeders from breeding, advertising, and selling bully breed mix dogs. These mixes are currently being abandoned at the highest rate when compared to other breeds and are the hardest to rehome. They therefore end up spending the rest of their days in shelters.

Was this law enacted because bully breeds are considered aggressive or dangerous?

No, the law was NOT enacted due to aggression concerns. Bully breeds, like any other breed, can be gentle and obedient. The law addresses their higher abandonment rates and difficulty in finding homes, which has led to overcrowded shelters and the suffering of this breed.

If I’m caught breeding a bully breed mix as from the the 13th December 2024, what will happen to the puppies?

You will be allowed to keep the puppies, provided that they are microchipped and electronically registered when they reach the appropriate age. You will not be allowed to advertise, sell or breed them and you will be fined up to a maximum €1,000 per puppy.