Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys has signed the legislation to ban XL Bully dogs following a number of serious attacks.
The ban comes into effect in two stages, starting next Tuesday when it will be against the law to import, breed, sell or rehome an XL Bully dog.
From 1 February, it will be illegal to own the dogs without a certification of exemption, which will be available free of charge from local authorities.
Owners will be able to apply for a certificate of exemption from Tuesday if their dog is licensed, microchipped and neutered.
The move follows discussions between Ms Humphreys and retired deputy garda commissioner John Twomey, who led the implementation group set up to advise on how to implement such a ban.
XL Bullys which are in the care of animal welfare charities and shelters on 1 October will be permitted to be rehomed or exported subject to strict criteria until 1 February 2025.
In a statement following a meeting of the Cabinet, Ms Humphreys said the rules were being introduced "in the interest of public safety following a number of horrific attacks by XL Bully dogs, which included the death of a young woman in Limerick."
Earlier this year 23-year-old Nicola Morey died following the attack at her home in Co Limerick.
"I am concerned that if we do not take action now, the number of these dogs in the country will grow and my fear is that these attacks will become more frequent," Ms Humphreys said.
"While I know not everybody will agree with the ban, my ultimate priority is to protect public safety.
"For existing owners of XL Bully Dogs, provided they take the necessary steps and obtain a Certificate of Exemption, they will be permitted to keep their dog until the end of it's natural life," she added.
Demonstrators walked their dogs from St Stephen's Green to the Dáil, as they gathered to call on the Government to improve laws relating to XL Bullys and restricted breeds.
Earlier this week, the Dáil heard calls for an amnesty and extension ahead of the planned ban.
Sinn Féin TD Chris Andrews said the ban was causing panic and mayhem and was an extreme measure that could see thousands of dogs killed.
The Green Party's Neasa Hourigan called for a delay in the timeline saying that there were too many outstanding questions on how the ban would work.
Minister of State Thomas Byrne told the Dáil that the ban was being introduced due to public safety and human safety after a number of recent incidents.
He indicated that the ban would come into force as planned.
