Bully Insurance Requirement to Be Scrapped in Jersey

XL Bully dogs owners in Jersey will no longer have one more burden on their minds, as the Government of Jersey has stated its intention to repeal the third-party insurance requirement on these dogs.

This comes after the withdrawal of the only insurance company offering cover of this kind in Jersey as well as throughout the UK and the Channel Islands. The insurance requirement came into effect in Jersey in December 2025 under stricter regulations regarding dangerous dog breeds.

Why Is Bully Insurance Being Removed?

The government introduced this insurance clause to protect the public from potential costs linked to attacks by XL Bully-type dogs. The problem is that recently Dogs Trust has decided to terminate their policy for dangerous breeds.

As per Dogs Trust, the demand for the policy has more than doubled, causing an increase in the number of claimants. In view of the absence of insurers providing the necessary coverage, dog owners in Jersey will have trouble meeting a legally mandatory obligation.

UK Government has scrapped its mandatory third-party liability insurance requirement for XL Bully dogs. Jersey is expected to adopt the same approach.

What Will Change for Dog Owners?

Jersey plans to remove the rule, but has not set a date. The change could ease insurance concerns for XL Bully owners.

The main concerns for owners include:

1. Problems with securing insurance for XL Bully-type dogs
2. Financial problems that could arise in case of an accident
3. Safety concerns regarding exercise and management of the dog without insurance
4. Options for individuals who wish to protect themselves from third parties

Owners Still Have Safety Concerns

American Bulldog owner Nina Morgan supported the removal of the insurance requirement but warned that owners could still face financial risks.

She said dog-related risks are not limited to attacks, as accidents can also cause injuries or property damage. Morgan added that owners may now face difficult choices, from walking their dogs uninsured to severely restricting their movement

What Happens Next for Bully Insurance?

According to the Jersey Government, the process of the removal of the insurance requirement is already ongoing. The discussions were held among the government, parishes, and the state’s veterinary service.

Even if this removal of the requirement will help those owners who cannot get insurance, questions regarding the liability and risks for dog owners remain. The matter will continue to be one of the key issues for XL Bully-type dog owners.

References Link: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3dxwvw970qgo