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States of Jersey to scrap mandatory insurance requirement for dangerous dogs
Overview
The Government of Jersey has confirmed it intends to remove the legal requirement for owners of XL bully-type dogs to hold third-party liability insurance. The decision follows the withdrawal of the only insurer offering the coverage in Jersey and the UK. While the move relieves pressure on owners unable to obtain policies, some express concern over being left exposed to liabilities arising from everyday accidents.
Key points
- The Government of Jersey is removing the legal requirement for third-party liability insurance for XL bully-type dogs.
- The change comes after the only insurer providing this cover for the UK and Channel Islands stopped its provision due to doubled demand and increased claims.
- The mandatory insurance requirement was originally introduced following a law change in December 2025.
- Jersey plans to follow the UK Government, which has also scrapped its requirement for third-party liability insurance.
- Dog owners have raised concerns that removing the rule leaves them exposed to financial risks from everyday accidents.