![\"File](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/0_XL-bully-ban.jpg\")
File image of XL Bully (Image: PA)<\/p>\nHe is one of the first people in the country to be prosecuted after the breed was bannedFile image of XL Bully (Image: PA)<\/p>\n
A Bristol man has been fined and may have his pet destroyed for owning an unregistered XL Bully.<\/p>\n
Paul Nicholson, of Fishponds Road in Eastville, is one of the first people in the country to be prosecuted after XL Bully breeds were banned, the BBC<\/a> reports.<\/p>\n Nicholson, 60, was sentenced at Bristol Magistrates’ Court and was ordered to pay a total of \u00a3256 in fines.<\/p>\n Nicholson’s dog, Dior, may be destroyed unless Nicholson registers, neuters, microchips and insures her in the next two months.<\/p>\n Owning XL Bullies is restricted under the Dangerous Dogs Act.<\/p>\n XL bullies were added to a list of dog breeds that are prohibited by law on December 31, 2023.<\/p>\n Under the act, it is illegal to sell, give away, abandon or breed XL bullies.<\/p>\n Since February 1, 2024, it has been a criminal offence to own an XL bully without an exemption certificate.<\/p>\n Bristol Magistrates’ Court heard how Dior has never acted aggressively in public and that Nicholson has never lost control of her.<\/p>\n An assessment of the dog carried out by an expert animal handler found that Dior has never acted aggressively and she does not display any aggressive behaviour.<\/p>\n Magistrates told Nicholson that they are “satisfied” that his dog is not a danger to public safety, adding that he is a “fit and proper person” to own her.<\/p>\n Nicholson will also have to ensure that Dior is kept securely at his address and kept on a lead and muzzled when in public.<\/p>\n Want the latest Bristol breaking news and top stories first?<\/strong> Click here to join our WhatsApp group<\/a> <\/strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.<\/strong><\/p>\n