THERE are only three registered XL Bully-type dogs in the Fermanagh and Omagh District, figures have revealed. 

The figure was the lowest out of all 11 council districts in Northern Ireland. 

From December 31, it will be illegal in Northern Ireland to own an XL Bully-type dog without an exemption certificate.

Applications opened on Friday and are only available for people whose dogs are registered.

The restrictions are aimed at safeguarding people, livestock or any other animal from attacks by XL Bully dogs.

According to figures from Councils, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council had the lowest number of registered XL Bully-type dogs, with only three dogs registered. 

Meanwhile, Lisburn and Castlereagh District Council had the most such dogs registered, with 43, while nearby Mid Ulster District Council had only seven such dogs registered. 

There are 311 XL Bully-type dogs now registered in Northern Ireland - more than twice as many as the 140 registered in March when the ban was first announced.

The figures from councils also show the number has more than tripled from the 90 registered in October, 2023.

The scheme to apply for an exemption certificate opened on Friday and applications must be posted to councils before December 15, or emailed by December 31.