Campaigners have welcomed the move to outlaw the breed they argue is "a clear and present threat to public health", but concerns have been raised it may not be practical and lead to other kinds of dogs being prohibited.
"It is not currently a breed defined in law, so this vital first step must happen fast.
"We will then ban the breed under the Dangerous Dogs Act and new laws will be in place by the end of the year.
Meanwhile, Downing Street denied the government had taken too long to ban American XL bully dogs.
Asked whether ministers had “dragged their heels” on outlawing the breed, the prime minister’s official spokesman said: "I wouldn’t accept that.
“Clearly this breed of dog isn’t defined in law so it’s right to take the time to consider the best way to put an end to these horrendous attacks that we’re seeing.”
But there is concern a move to prohibit the animal may not be practical due to the American XL bully not being recognised as a breed by the Kennel Club, which could mean any ban may inadvertently outlaw other kinds of dogs.
How do you determine whether a dog is a specific breed of dog without anyone defining the breed standards?
How do you determine whether a dog is a specific breed of dog without anyone defining the breed standards?