Dog breeders are evading the ban on XL Bullys by promoting a smaller alternative that can be equally aggressive, as revealed by an investigation by Mirror. The rise in popularity of pocket bullys has been notable since the prohibition on XLs, leading to numerous advertisements on resale platforms. Despite being genetically similar to the XL Bully, experts are concerned about a potential increase in fatal attacks.

Following the tragic death of three-month-old Maggie-May Ann Moody, purportedly attacked by a dog resembling a pocket bully in Redcar, North Yorks, her family expressed their grief and loss, emphasizing the profound impact of her absence.

In a separate incident, Amanda Holmes shared the harrowing experience of her son Antonio, who sustained life-changing injuries after being attacked by a pocket bully. Advocating for a ban on these dogs, she highlighted the traumatic aftermath of the incident on her son’s well-being and their family.

Pocket and XL Bullys both belong to the American bulldog breed, distinguished primarily by their size. While pocket bullys are currently legal in the UK, their stature, typically 17 inches tall, sets them apart from the larger XL Bullys. However, their compact yet robust physique makes them powerful for their size.

A subset of the American Bully breed, pocket bullys are bred to be shorter and muscular by crossing Pit Bulls with smaller English Bulldogs, Patterdale Terriers, or American Staffordshire Terriers. Despite their popularity, they are prone to various health issues due to their size and inbreeding.

The ban on the sale of American XL Bully dogs was enforced in 2024 following a campaign led by Mirror. Jeffrey Turner, a recognized dangerous dog assessor, warned about the potential risks associated with pocket bullys, emphasizing their biting capability and formidable strength, particularly in the wrong hands.

While reported fatalities involving XL Bullys decreased in 2025, attacks by other bully variants have been on the rise. The prevalence of pocket bullys in online advertisements and social media groups promoting territorial and aggressive behavior raises concerns about responsible ownership and potential safety hazards.

Despite calls for breed bans, experts argue that accountability lies with irresponsible owners rather than targeting specific breeds. Emphasizing the importance of responsible dog ownership, experts advocate for stricter enforcement of laws and regulations to prevent dog-related incidents.