State your name, and where your kennel is located.
Our kennel is South Florida Bully Department. Our names are Nicole and Joey Santiago. You can find us in Boca Raton, Florida.
What type of dogs do you breed, and what inspired you to get involved with that particular breed?
We breed American bullies. Our passion started when we got our first bully. They are loyal, loving, and filled with so much personality. These characteristics are what made us decide that we wanted to breed. We strive to give families our vision of the perfect pet.
What type of diet do you keep your dogs on throughout the year?
We feed our dogs Merrick Limited Ingredient, and glaze it with coconut oil, which helps keep their coats in amazing condition.
What is your favorite bloodline?
Daxline is our favorite bloodline.
Does South Florida Bully Department currently show any their dogs at the bully shows?
No, we currently do not show our dogs.
What advice do you have for any upcoming breeders?
Do your research before getting into breeding. You must learn about the different bloodlines, colors, styles, and find out which one best suits you. This is the easier part. Once you have this figured out you have to do your research on how to breed. You can’t just throw two dogs together and pray for the best. Are you going with an AI or natural? What if your dogs won’t tie? What if you can’t find a vet willing to do an AI? Can you do it yourself? Is your vet willing to do progesterone testing? These are all questions you have to have answer prior to breeding.
What do you think, is the most difficult thing for people in the bully game to overcome?
We think the most difficult thing for people to overcome is the judgement of others.
How do you think they can overcome this thing?
People are not always going to agree with your style or vision of what the perfect dog is. However, you must stay focused and true to your dream. Others may not like it, but its yours and you must stand behind it. If you don’t believe in your dogs than no one will.
Who do you look up to in the bully game, and why?
Ed Shepherd, because he was able to create amazing bloodlines in both the American Bully and American Pitbull Terrier communities. He is a pioneer in both breeds, and his bloodline can be found in almost all pedigrees.
Tell us about one of South Florida Bully Department’s main goals going into the year 2018.
One of our main goals is to get in the show ring and show people what we have to offer.
Describe how you would want things, in the bully Community, to be 10 years from now.
I would like to see a more of community atmosphere, and not so much drama.
What separates South Florida Bully Department from the competition?
Our kennel is completely based around our family and our dogs are a huge part of it. Our children enjoy learning along with us. They get down and dirty, and love naming each puppy. All of our children have even assisted in the birth of puppies. It’s a family affair. They intend to carry on our dream.
In your own words, what is an Exotic Bully?
An exotic bully is a designer dog. It doesn’t fit any classification. It should be it’s own breed.
What is your opinion on the new exotic breed movement?
I’m for it. Everyone has their own style, and as long as the dogs are healthy, I say go for it.
What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?
We enjoy fishing, martial arts, and soccer.
What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?
We think Bully Girl Magazine is a great source of information for anyone that wants to learn about the bully community.
