Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has taken a unique approach to home security by employing his XL Bully dog, named Goku, to guard his residence. Raya’s decision comes in the wake of several high-profile burglaries targeting footballers’ homes. The professional footballer and his girlfriend, Tatiana Trouboul, have expressed their deep affection for Goku despite the recent stringent laws targeting the breed following a series of aggressive incidents.
David Raya has an exemption certificate that allows him to have a banned XL Bully
Goku, a 1-year-old XL Bully, has been part of Raya’s life since he was a puppy and is currently undergoing specialized training — per the Daily Mail. The couple has hired experts from Elite Protection Dogs, a reputable organization with over three decades of experience in the field, to train Goku. They aim to harness his natural protective instincts while ensuring he remains controlled and obedient.
In response to increasing incidents involving XL Bullys, authorities have implemented new regulations, rendering the breed illegal in several contexts without specific exemptions. It’s now illegal to have an XL Bully in public spaces without proper restraint or to sell, breed, or abandon them. Moreover, owners are mandated to secure third-party liability insurance to keep these animals.
Despite these laws, Raya has secured an exemption certificate, enabling him to keep Goku. The certificate requires owners to adhere to stringent conditions, including microchipping, neutering, and ensuring they keep the dog in a secure environment, The Sun reported.
While dog shelters report an uptick in the surrender or abandonment of XL Bullys, owners like Raya, who demonstrate responsible ownership and compliance with the law, show that a balanced approach is possible. Through proper training and adherence to legal requirements, Raya is ensuring Goku remains both a beloved family pet and an effective guardian of their home.
