An XL Bully dog named Dutchess has been ordered to be destroyed following a court ruling at Peterlee Magistrates' Court.

The application for destruction, brought under Section 4B of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, was approved by the magistrates after they determined that the dog’s owner, Sam Heaviside of Angram Place, Newton Aycliffe, was not a “fit and proper person” to care for the animal.

The court heard on November 20 that Dutchess, described as underweight, had been seized by authorities following concerns over her welfare.

The application was made by Durham Police, who argued that the circumstances surrounding the dog's treatment warranted the destruction order.

Heaviside, who did not attend the hearing, was not represented by legal counsel.

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Magistrates issued the destruction order, stating that the dog posed a risk under the current circumstances and that no other suitable arrangement had been proposed.

The order will take effect unless an appeal is lodged within 21 days.

Dutchess will remain in the care of the authorities pending any appeal.

What are the rules on XL Bully dogs in the UK?

XL Bully dogs are subject to several rules in the UK, including: 

Muzzling and leading - XL Bully dogs must be muzzled and on a lead in public, including in private cars. 

Breeding - It's illegal to breed, sell, advertise, gift, exchange, abandon, or let XL Bully dogs stray. 

Ownership - It's a criminal offence to own or possess an XL Bully dog in England and Wales without a valid Certificate of Exemption. 

Registration - All XL Bully dogs must be registered. 

Neutering - XL Bully dogs over one year old must be neutered by June 30, 2024, and younger dogs by December 31, 2024.