State your name, your kennel, and where your kennel is located.
My name is Jordan McCray. I own and operate Bad to the Bone Kennels with my best friend and partner, Randell Smith III. Bad to the Bone Kennels is located in Shenandoah, Virginia.
What type of dogs do you breed, and what inspired you to get involved with that particular breed?
We breed XL American Bullies. Randell originally created our Bad to the Bone logo, with the intention of promoting it as a clothing line. The inspiration for the clothing line came from our first female dog, Empress Zoey. We really just took the hint from the universe, and put our love for dogs and fashion together. Then along came Bad to the Bone Kennels!
In your opinion, what are the characteristics of a responsible dog breeder?
In my opinion, responsible breeders should have the knowledge and skills to care for these dogs. Also, responsible breeders should be able to communicate with other breeders and families about how to take care of the dogs they sold them. Proper health and registration records should be provided. Lastly, they should be willing to discuss the strengths, weaknesses, and important qualities of the bully breed.
What type of diet do you keep your dogs on throughout the year?
Our dogs are kept on a Prey Model Raw diet throughout the year. We have recently transitioned from kibble to raw, and the dogs have such healthy coats, pearly white teeth, and lots of energy!
What is your favorite bloodline?
Our favorite bloodline is Razors Edge. We appreciate the traits that Empress Zoey received from Razors Edge, including: structure, size, and temperament.
Does Bad to the Bone Kennels currently show any dogs?
We do not currently show any of our dogs, but we have taken a handling class, and enjoyed it! We also enjoy traveling to dog shows to network with other breeders and dog owners.
What advice do you have for any upcoming breeders?
Our advice for upcoming breeders is to read and do lots of research. There are tons of professional resources out there to help improve the health and quality of bully breed dogs.
What do you think, is the most difficult thing for people in the bully game to overcome?
I think the most difficult thing for people in the bully community to overcome is their pride and ego. It seems as if many breeders will not “get off their high horse” and help one another. Not many people are willing to be excellent resources and mentors for upcoming breeders.
How do you think they can overcome this thing?
Just help someone! Even if it’s just one person each day. Make an effort to make a difference!
Who do you look up to in the bully game, and why?
We look up to Gina of XXL Designer Pitbulls! Gina properly exercises her dogs daily, feeds them a raw nutritious diet, and gives all of her dogs such unique names. Gina perfectly describes her dogs as, “Size without the slop” and we absolutely agree. All of her dogs are just beautiful!
Tell us about one of Bad to the Bone Kennels main goals for the year 2019.
One of our main goals for 2019 was to learn how to breed dogs using the “natural tie” method, which I am proud to say we accomplished in February. We just started our kennel in July of 2018. The only breeding method that we had completed was through artificial insemination, which was performed by our vet. We want to be successful in this business. With that said, we have to gain all the experiences possible, and share that information with other breeders and bully breed dog owners.
Describe how you would want things, in the bully breed Community, to be 10 years from now.
Ten years from now I would like to see the bully breed community fully revamped. I’d like to see all breeders take pride in providing updated pictures, online pedigrees, and their own personal resources (blogs, videos, social media posts). In addition, I would also like to see a code of conduct/ethics both implemented and upheld by all breeders.
What separates Bad to the Bone Kennels from the competition?
We don’t compete! Our focus is building together with other responsible breeders. We are completely honest and open about our achievements, our mistakes, and all of our learning experiences in general. This is why we post lots of tips and tricks on our social media channels! Solely to help others!
What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?
My other hobbies include reading, blog writing, and social media consulting. I really enjoy helping other people run their social media pages and improving engagement for their business. Randell’s hobbies include creative directing and fashion design. He owns a manufacturing company and he is also the Artist Assistant to Gunna.
What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?
I think Bully Girl Magazine is a great way to learn about other breeders and their values. Bully Girl Magazine is also a great platform to help build relationships in the Bully Community.
