Tell our readers a little bit about yourself.
My name is Jennifer Thorne, founder of 49th State Kennels. You can find us in Palmer, Alaska.
What type of dogs do you breed?
I breed American Bullies, particularly standard, classics, and XL’s. I’m a huge APBT advocate. This is a general statement. Hopefully no one takes offense. I came to the conclusion that there aren’t enough educated buyers out there to understand or handle a true APBT. I have two APBT’s. They are high prey and they are intense. I leaned towards American Bullies due to the breed being more user friendly, and a lot (not all) of the DA being bred out versus APBT’s, which have a lot
of DA.
In your opinion, what are the characteristics of a responsible dog breeder?
Responsible breeders possess the following characteristics:
-Stellar work ethic
-Willingness to health test
-Great stud and puppy contracts
-They are active with their dogs
-They invest back into their kennels and dogs
-Not ignorant
-Willing to learn
What type of diet does 49th State Kennels keep your dogs on throughout the year?
Most of my dogs are on a raw diet. I also add in supplements or vitamins from time to time.
What is your favorite bloodline?
I really don’t have a favorite bloodline. Each and every bloodline adds specific characteristics to whatever direction anyone is leaning towards in their kennel.
Does 49th State Kennels currently show any dogs?
I currently do not show any of my dogs due to the fact that none of the registries come up to Alaska. I do participate in sports with my dogs such as: agility, lure course, obedience, barn hunt, etc.
What advice do you have for any upcoming breeders?
Take your time and spend your money wisely. Don’t get caught up in big names or peoples incredible marketing skills. Be a breeder with integrity, that you would want to buy a puppy from. You want to keep a good reputation in this bully world.
What do you think is the most difficult thing for people in the bully game to overcome?
Their egos.
How do you think they can overcome this thing?
I think if everyone was less judgmental, willing to help other succeed, and willing to learn, the bully world would be a better place.
Who do you look up to in the bully game, and why?
I wouldn’t say I look up to anyone specifically. I’ve bought dogs from about 5 or 6 kennels. I like certain things, and I wish certain things turned out differently. What I try to do, is take all my experiences with all the people or kennels and build from there.
Tell us about one of your main goals for the year 2020.
I make custom biothane collars and leashes as a service my kennel. I am trying to streamline that and get a website up and going.
Describe how you would want things, in the bully breed Community, to be 10 years from now.
I’d really like for a standard to be decided on. I would also like for the American bully to be recognized by the AKC.
What separates 49th State Kennels from the competition?
Honestly, I’m just a nice person. I treat people as I want to be treated. Health testing my dogs is probably what sets me a part from any competition. Some kennels or breeders are not willing to do that. I offer other services as well such as: hand made custom leashes & collars, and a ground transportation service (currently working on rates).
What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?
I enjoy going to the gym, classic cars, motorcycles, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with good people in my life.
What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?
I think Bully Girl Magazine is fabulous. It’s a good way to balance out the “women vs men” in the bully world. A lot of women breed or are starting to breed, and it’s nice to be recognized.
