State your name, your kennel, and where your kennel is located.
We are Amy & Brett Bentley, founders of Bentley Bullies. You can find us in Southern Rhode Island.
What type of dogs do you breed, and what inspired you to get involved with that particular breed?
We breed American Bullies. We’ve always loved Pit bulls, but we especially love the well-rounded side that Bullies bring to the table. Their size, strength, companionship and personality are amazing. American Bullies are able to keep up with our active lifestyle, but also love to cuddle up and snooze.
In your opinion, what are the characteristics of a responsible dog breeder?
Being conscious of the life you’re bringing into this world, which should not be taken lightly. We all know there are tons of dogs in shelters looking for loving families. We believe dogs shouldn’t be brought into this world, unless it is done so mindfully, bringing only the proven pedigrees together to ensure correct structure and temperament.
What type of diet do you keep your dogs on throughout the year?
We’ve found that creating a mix of high quality kibble (all natural ingredients with 30% protein and 15% fat) and organic whole foods, provides the widest variety of nutrition. Whole foods may change based on season and availability. We try to source as locally as possible utilizing our own vegetable garden and wild foraging skills. We typically include rice, lentils, sweet potatoes, carrots, apples, blueberries, chicken, venison, and eggs to name a few!
What is your favorite bloodline?
Like most out there, Gottiline thanks to Ed Shepherd. We also love Razor’s Edge, thanks to Dave Wilson. They both have such distinctive looks that when combined cannot be beat! We are lucky to have such a stud, with a perfect mix of both infamous bloodlines.
Do you currently show any of your dogs?
Our work schedule has prevented it thus far, but it is the plan! We hope to see more events available up in the New England area.
What advice does Bentley Bullies have for any upcoming breeders?
Always do your homework before jumping into anything. Too many see this “industry” as income only, and forget it has always been about producing the best and highest quality canines. Forget the hype. We are talking about decade-long companions, so the decision should not be taken lightly.
What do you think is the most difficult thing for people in the bully game to overcome?
The social media hype. Due to IG and other platforms taking over and glorifying everything, it’s all about flash and rarely about all the hard work involved. Most are too concerned with the next trend, and aren’t considering functionality and correct structure enough.
How do you think they can overcome this thing?
By breeding more selectively. It’s common sense. We all know a great quality dog when we see one. Function and structure are the number one indicators.
Who do you look up to in the bully game, and why?
As previously named Ed Shepherd (RIP) and Dave Wilson have really taken their visions to the next level for the American Bully community. They’ve created some of the most iconic bullies, and everyone else has been trying to catch up since.
Tell us about one of Bentley Bullies main goals for the year 2019.
We will continue to focus on our upcoming Stud, The Dapper Don, bred by Clutch Kennels using CH Ava and SMP/Double D’s CH Lucky Luciano. He is unbelievably intelligent, has incredible drive and natural guard dog instincts. The Dapper Don is the center of attention wherever he goes, and is our best friend. He has a bright future ahead of him.
Describe how you would want things, in the bully breed Community, to be 10 years from now.
I would love to see much more selective breeders. Make sure your dogs can actually function as dogs should. We also are always working towards breaking the social stigmas against the bully breeds. They are extremely social and loving, and do well with other people, pets, and children. Most know this, but the rest need educating.
What separates Bentley Bullies from the competition?
Our heart and our passion for animals definitely set us apart. Dogs in particular are so intelligent, friendly, and positive. American Bullies are perfect companions and working buddies, deserving of our respect. We are lucky enough to still be living near where we grew up in Southern RI, making it easy to appreciate Mother Nature and all she has to offer. With the ocean, woods, rivers and ponds, the beauty is endless here and we are thankful that our dogs can experience it all as well!
What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?
Hiking, camping, kayaking, yoga, MMA, gardening, and traveling. Anything outdoors and physical, we are there! It’s a perfect life for our dogs, who love being active.
What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?
Bully Girl Magazine is a great source for the latest bully information, such as: events, kennels, and of course upcoming Sires and Dams. We especially like the photo contests, which makes their website even more interactive.
