Rubery XL bully owner felt ‘worse’ after following law

Owners have been able to apply for an exemption certificate for some months.

Those doing so have also been required to pay an application fee, hold liability insurance for their dog, and ensure it has been microchipped.

So far, more than 30,000 XL bullies are registered for exemption but the breed’s true number is thought to be much higher.

Ms Keegan, from Rubery, Worcestershire, described her pet Costa as the “biggest softie”.

She told BBC Hereford and Worcester: “It felt daunting to think that my dog is now a number on a dangerous dogs list.”

After registering Costa, Ms Keegan was also required to fit him with a muzzle when out on walks.

“It is heart-breaking,” Ms Keegan said, “because he is a big dog and big dogs need a lot of exercise.

“He plays with sticks and balls, and now he does not understand why he can’t.”

Ms Keegan added the metal muzzle – which cost £50 – caused panic among other dog owners as it made them think he was a threat.

But Dr Chris Dixon, owner of Wye Valley vets in Hereford, described the ban as useful.