Due to the recent changes in UK law regarding XL Bullys and their addition to the list of banned breeds in the UK, fewer professional dog walkers are offering their services to XL owners, primarily for insurance reasons.
However, many have seen the gap in the market and turned their businesses towards this challenge rather than away from it and are reaping the rewards, becoming experts in their particular niches.
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Understanding the Legislation
As of early 2024, XL Bully-type dogs are banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, which means they must be muzzled and on a lead at all times in public, cannot be rehomed or sold, and must be kept under strict control. Owners must apply for an exemption certificate and meet strict conditions to legally keep their dogs.
These restrictions have understandably caused concern in the professional dog walking community. The added legal responsibility, coupled with insurance complications, means many walkers have decided it’s just not worth the risk.
But for those who took the time to understand the legislation, speak to insurers, and develop new procedures, the outcome has been a thriving niche market, less competition, and strong client loyalty.
Filling the Gap
With fewer professionals willing to work with XL Bullies, owners are struggling to find qualified, experienced walkers they can trust. This has created a unique opportunity for dog walkers who are confident handling strong breeds and are willing to adapt their services.
Some professionals have gone one step further, building their entire brand around walking power breeds. They highlight their experience, training, and understanding of breed-specific needs, positioning themselves as the go-to experts in their area. As a result, they attract a dedicated client base and often charge premium rates for their specialist service.
Insurance: Navigating the Minefield
One of the main reasons many dog walkers have stepped away from walking XL Bullies is insurance. Not all pet business insurers will cover banned breeds, even with an exemption certificate in place. But those who persisted found that specialist insurers, such as Cliverton or Pet Business Insurance, may offer tailored cover—as long as certain conditions are met.
These conditions often include:
- A valid exemption certificate from the owner
- Use of a muzzle and short, secure lead
- No group walks—XL Bullies must be walked alone
- Specific training and risk assessment by the walker
Walkers willing to invest time in fulfilling these requirements have found it possible to safely and legally insure their services, and some even use their insured status as a unique selling point in their marketing.
Risk Assessment and Policy Writing
Dog walkers who’ve embraced this niche have added formal risk assessments and custom policies to their onboarding process. This not only satisfies insurers but gives owners confidence that their dog is in capable hands.
These policies might include:
- Pre-walk behaviour assessment
- Muzzle desensitisation training (if needed)
- Consent forms confirming exemption status
- Clear emergency procedures
- Rules around public interaction and transport
By approaching the situation professionally and methodically, these walkers separate themselves from casual or less prepared competitors.
Training and CPD
To further boost confidence and competence, many walkers in this niche are investing in professional development. Courses in canine body language, aggression, restraint techniques, and first aid are increasingly common.
Some have even undertaken qualifications in animal behaviour or joined industry bodies like the Pet Professional Guild or the National Association of Pet Sitters & Dog Walkers (NarpsUK) to strengthen their credibility.
Sharing these qualifications on websites and social media not only reassures prospective clients—it reinforces the walker’s commitment to safety and expertise.
Marketing to the Right Audience
The key to success in this niche is attracting the right kind of clients—responsible XL Bully owners who are compliant with the law and looking for a professional to support them.
Many specialist walkers are using platforms like Instagram and Facebook to reach this audience, sharing content such as:
- Muzzle training tips
- Legal updates for owners
- Walk logs featuring their XL clients (with permission)
- Testimonials and success stories
Some have created blog posts or videos around topics like “How to Find a Dog Walker for Your XL Bully” or “What to Expect When Hiring a Power Breed Professional,” which help establish trust and build authority.
Local dog owner groups and breed-specific forums have also proven useful for word-of-mouth referrals.
Setting Expectations and Boundaries
Handling XL Bullies means clear communication and firm boundaries. Walkers successful in this space report that their contracts and consultations are more detailed than ever before.
They often include:
- Terms for solo walks only
- Rules around handler-to-dog ratios (typically 1:1)
- Expectations around muzzling and leash etiquette
- The walker’s right to terminate services if the dog behaves dangerously or the owner breaches any legal requirements
These expectations are communicated clearly upfront, preventing misunderstandings and setting a professional tone.
Going the Extra Mile
Walkers in this space also report that XL Bully owners are often extremely grateful for the help, especially since many feel ostracised or judged since the legislation came into effect.
Some professionals are even offering extra services, such as:
- Helping owners with exemption paperwork
- Muzzle training packages
- One-to-one walk-and-train sessions
- Socialisation walks with other power breeds (where safe and permitted)
This high level of service and support not only helps dogs stay happy and well-exercised but builds a loyal client base who will recommend them again and again.
Final Thoughts
While many dog walkers are steering clear of XL Bullies due to fear, confusion, or lack of insurance, others are proving that—with the right approach—it’s possible to build a successful and rewarding business around these misunderstood dogs.
By stepping into this niche with care, professionalism, and proper planning, you can become a trusted lifeline for responsible XL Bully owners—and make your mark in a market with surprisingly little competition.