At least 38,000 XL Bullys are still on Britain's streets even after the breed was banned.
The figure is nearly four times more than Government officials thought even existed.
The banned breeds register showed some 38,424 were granted a £92 exemption to avoid being put down before the February 1 deadline for England and Wales.
One of those said to have got an exemption certificate for their pet is Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.
The Spaniard, 28, is said to have obtained an exemption certificate for his pet Goku in the hope that the dog will help protect his north London mansion.