The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has announced two significant updates to the requirements for individuals holding an Exemption Certificate for a prohibited dog breed.

Mirroring measures implemented in England and Wales, from 1 November 2026, dog owners will be legally barred from allowing a child under the age of 12 to be left in close proximity to a prohibited breed type dog in a domestic or other private setting without adult supervision. This new safeguard is designed to reduce the risk of serious injury to children within home environments, while allowing exempted dogs to live with families under appropriate supervision.

Non-compliance with this new rule, as with all existing conditions of exemption, could trigger enforcement action. Under the current powers of the Dogs Order (Northern Ireland) 1983, this may lead to the seizure of the animal and potential prosecution. DAERA will publish further updated guidance before the requirement officially comes into effect on 1 November 2026. DAERA Minister Andrew Muir stated: "Restrictions on prohibited breeds are essential for public safety, that is why I introduced these measures for XL Bully type dogs in 2024. The evidence was clear that these animals posed a greater risk to people and other animals when compared to other breeds.

"To enhance child safety, I now plan to introduce similar steps being taken in England and Wales from 1 November prohibiting a child under the age of 12 to be left in close proximity to a prohibited breed type dog in a home or other private setting without adult supervision. Although this legal requirement only applies to prohibited breed-types, any dog can pose a risk in certain situations. Owners should be reminded of guidance that young children should always be supervised around all dogs."

Alongside the new supervision rule, DAERA revealed that owners will no longer be required to hold third-party liability insurance as a condition for securing an Exemption Certificate, effective from 1 July 2026. This amendment matches regulatory steps taken across all other UK jurisdictions and aligns with current policies in the Republic of Ireland.

Local councils are set to contact owners of prohibited breeds directly over the coming weeks to issue updated Exemption Certificates. All other conditions tied to the Exemption Certificates remain fully active, and owners are required to maintain compliance. No additional action is needed from owners as a result of these updates.