Key Points
• A UK policy webinar on dangerous dogs will take place on 19 May 2026
• The session will review dog attack figures in England and Wales
• Discussion includes the impact of the XL Bully ban introduced in 2024
• The growth of “personal protection” dog ownership will be examined
• Potential regulatory approaches and training standards will be explored
A Policy-Focused Discussion on Dog Ownership and Public Safety
A UK webinar scheduled for 19 May 2026 will bring together professionals from across policy, welfare, and the dog sector to examine current issues surrounding dangerous dogs.
The session is set to explore existing legislation, including the 2024 XL Bully ban, alongside wider questions around public safety, dog ownership, and training practices.
Speakers include representatives from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, the RSPCA, the protection dog sector, and legal professionals with experience in prosecution and enforcement.
What the Webinar Will Cover
According to the event outline, the discussion will focus on several key areas:
• Recorded dog attack figures across England and Wales
• The reported impact of recent legislation, including the XL Bully ban
• The emergence and growth of the personal protection dog market
• The role of training, breeding, and ownership standards
• Potential approaches to future regulation
The session will also consider how current laws apply to different types of dog ownership and whether existing frameworks are sufficient.
Focus on Personal Protection Dogs
One area highlighted in the programme is the increasing visibility of “personal protection” dogs in the UK.
These dogs may be specifically bred or trained for controlled protection work, including responding to commands to bite, hold, or release.
The webinar will examine how this area currently sits outside specific regulatory frameworks and how it is treated under existing legislation.
Legislative Context
The discussion will include reference to current UK laws on dangerous dogs, as well as alternative approaches used in other regions.
This includes consideration of behaviour-based assessments and the role of local authorities and enforcement agencies in managing risk.
The programme also notes ongoing debate around breed-specific legislation and its effectiveness.
What This Means for Dog Guardians
• Policy discussions around dog ownership and safety are ongoing in the UK
• Future changes could affect training, ownership responsibilities, and expectations
• Increased attention is being given to emerging areas such as protection dog ownership
• Guardians may see continued focus on responsible ownership and control in public spaces
Event Information
The webinar will take place on Tuesday, 19 May 2026, between 9:30am and 1:00pm BST.
The event is delivered as an online webinar and is primarily aimed at professionals in animal welfare, law enforcement, local authorities, and the wider dog sector.
Attendance is available via advance registration through the event organisers.
Further Information and Registration
Event organiser website: https://www.publicpolicyexchange.co.uk
Registration and ticket information:
https://www.publicpolicyexchange.co.uk/book.php?event=QE19-PPE&ss=em&tg=1c
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