State your name, your kennel, and where your kennel is located.
My name is Tj Heath, 8-year NFL veteran. Our Kennel name is 4th and Goal Bullies. You can find us here in Atlanta, GA.
What type of dogs do you breed, and what inspired you to get involved with that particular breed?
We breed Top Pedigree American XL Bullies. I was inspired by the breed at the age of 8, when I received my first pup from a family member who also owns a kennel. My father made me give it back because he wasn’t a fan of dogs, especially the bully breed. So from that point on, I told myself that when I was able, I would have my own kennel.
What is your favorite bloodline?
My favorite bloodline is the Bossy bloodline. Kat is an excellent breeder and creates some beautiful pups.
In your opinion, what are the characteristics of a responsible dog breeder?
The characteristics of a responsible dog breeder are first: being a people person, being able to answer each and every question for potential owners, and understanding the background of future owners before pups leave for their new environment.
A responsible breeder is also very knowledgeable of the specifics of the breed. They are able to breed the correct attributes for healthy long lasting pups.
What type of diet do you keep your dogs on throughout the year?
We feed our dogs a mixture of kibble, along with cooked beef and sardines, which our dogs love. We mix greenery and healthy oils like coconut for extra internal benefits, and add certain fruits that benefit them.
How many times a day do you feed your dogs?
As pups we feed our dogs 3 maybe 4 times a day. As our pups get older we cut it down to twice daily which has kept our dogs focused on commands, and also helps to control behavior issues.
How do you keep your dogs in shape throughout the year?
We love to take our dogs hiking and running. Our dogs also spend a lot of time on spring and flirt poles, which is excellent for building muscle and drains our dogs energy.
Walk us through the process of purchasing a pup from your kennel from start to finish.
First we get an idea of who we are dealing with, to make sure our pups are going to good families. Then find out what exactly our clients are looking for.( Stud, Female, Colors, etc.) We then draw up the contract for our client with all the details that were discussed between me and the family.
From there we collect a one time deposit to hold the families pick in place. Once clients have paid off the full balance of pup, we allow our pups to leave for their new homes at 8 weeks of age. We will either ship to the customer or allow them to pick up their new pup!
Does 4th and Goal Bullies currently show any dogs?
Currently, we aren’t showing any of our dogs, but we are prepping one of our female pups for the ring, Sierra Leone. Her father, CH. Kain is a champion and we are excited to see her future success.
What advice does 4th and Goal Bullies have for any upcoming breeders?
Make sure you STUDY! Learn as much as you can about the breed, about the craft of being a dog breeder. I promise it will make a very big difference and you will begin to see yourself passing breeders who have been in the game for a while.
What do you think is the most difficult thing for people in the bully game to overcome?
The most difficult thing in my opinion, is people overcoming the sacrifice of the bully breeds health for monetary gain. I see breeders breed females back to back, and give pups the bare minimum care, just to pocket a few extra dollars.
How do you think they can overcome this thing?
By standing together as bully breed lovers, and putting the spotlight on those who aren’t taking care of the breed like it should be done.
Who do you look up to in the bully game, and why?
Calvin Wilson, owner of Dejohn Bully Pits. He was the first person to give me a bully, and as my hunger grew for the breed, he shared his experience and knowledge. For that, I am grateful!
Steve Emmer, Owner of MSB kennels. Steve helped me purchase my first top pedigree bully, invited me into his home and shared a lot of great knowledge. I’m happy to be able to call him a friend and mentor.
Tell us about one of 4th and Goal Bullies main goals for the year 2020.
Our main goal for 2020 is getting our stud Loc de’Leon, who is almost 10 months old and 118lbs, producing beautiful pups. I’m really excited about his progress and the attention he has gained. So it’ll be a great year for him.
What separates 4th and Goal Bullies from the competition?
Well besides being a Former NFL’er lol, I think my interaction with the people that I come across separates me. Everyone doesn’t have the patience of dealing with window shoppers, and people with tons of questions,
With each person I encounter, I make sure I give the best experience possible. At the end of the day, it’s not about how I feel, but how I make others feel. That’s what people usually remember the most.
What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?
I am a big outdoor person. I love fishing, shooting guns, and I also enjoy playing the drums.
What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?
I think Bully Girl Magazine is so dope. It’s a place for people like me to keep up with all that is going on in the bully game. Bully Girl Magazine is a community of people that love the Bully Breed!
