Scrutiny backs dogs law changes as necessary but is disappointed by delivery
Scrutiny
21 November 2025
The Environment, Housing, and Infrastructure Scrutiny Panel (the ‘Panel’) held a second Public Hearing with the Comité des Connétables and States Veterinary Officer on 20th November 2025, in order to answer concerns raised by the Panel, other States Members and stakeholders about the Draft Dogs Law (Jersey) Amendment Regulations 202- (the ‘Draft Dogs Law’).A debate on the Draft Dogs Law started at the last States Meeting and the Assembly voted to adopt the principles of the Draft Dogs Law, but due to the concerns raised, the Panel felt it necessary to call the legislation back in for further scrutiny. The Draft Dogs Law aims to require the registration of certain dog breeds that meet the criteria of a dangerous dog and impose certain restrictions on their importation and breeding, as well as other requirements such as, but not limited to, muzzling in public areas.
Deputy Hilary Jeune, Chair of the Panel, said: ‘The Draft Dogs Law is aimed at mitigating the danger posed by XL-Bully dogs, which we know have been responsible for many deaths and serious injuries in the UK and elsewhere. While we understood the rationale, we had several outstanding concerns and stakeholders, such as the JSPCA, also voiced their reservations about the proposals. The approach taken in developing and communicating this legislation appears to have contributed to some of the concerns raised. A more streamlined and transparent process by the Comité might have reduced the likelihood of it being called in and the subsequent postponement of the debate.
‘Following this second Public Hearing, we are now satisfied that these changes are needed and will recommend that the Assembly continue with the debate at next week’s sitting in order not to delay its implementation. The States Vet has asked XL-Bully owners to voluntarily abide by these restrictions, but breeding has continued, and it is now clear that legislation is required for compliance. However, we urge the Comité to engage with the States Police and local service providers in order to ensure that suitable facilities and training are put in place to enable enforcement of the Draft Dogs Law. We will also be launching a wider review into the Animal Welfare (Jersey) Law 2004 changes that have been proposed, which will include looking further at legislation governing dogs.’
Read the full Comments Paper on our website.
You can watch the Hearing back on our website or on YouTube.
