State your name, your kennel, and where your kennel is located.
My name is Earl Leonio, founder of Coastline Bullies. You can find us in Toronto, Canada.
What type of dogs do you breed, and what inspired you to get involved with that particular breed?
I breed Shorty Bulls. I chose to breed the Shorty Bull’s because they are unique in Canada. Their temperament, look, size is very versatile and similar to how Toronto is.
In your opinion, what are the characteristics of a responsible dog breeder?
For me a responsible breeder is someone who’s purpose is for the betterment of the breed. Be a good ambassador for the breed. Responsible breeders are not afraid to say no if he/she feels the buyer is not a right fit for the breed. Also, they are available at all times to the new puppy parents whenever they have questions or need assistance. Responsible breeders treat the dogs just like they are another family member.
What type of diet do you keep your dogs on throughout the year?
Coastline Bullies dogs are on Authority Grain Free dried dog food.
What is your favorite bloodline?
I love all the shorties!
Do you currently show, any of your dogs?
I have been showing my dogs. We don’t have a lot of shows in Canada, like how it is with the US, but hopefully soon there will be more.
What advice do you have for any upcoming breeders?
Do your research. It’s not that easy as you think. Don’t let outside noise affect your goals! Lastly, don’t be afraid to reach out to the veterans out there!
What do you think, is the most difficult thing for people in the bully game to overcome?
When I was starting out, my biggest challenge was that the breed was not popular in Canada, and no one knew what a Shorty Bull was. There were a lot of people calling the dogs Frenchies, Boston’s or Pugs.
How do you think they can overcome this thing?
I just kept educating people by answering the questions they had about my dogs. I also gave them my card and social media pages, as well as my email and phone number, just in case they had more inquiries. Exposing my Shorty Bulls to the public by hitting parks and taking them different places was also key.
Who do you look up to in the bully game, and why?
I look up to a few people in the game. First, Robert Lee of The Bully Market. Once and a while I contact him to see how things are in his yard. I’m just amazed on how successful he is now. I admire how hard working Robert is. Secondly, the creator of the Shorty Bulls, Jamie sweets and Amy Krogman, for turning their dream to reality. Look how much it’s growing!
Tell us about one of your main goals for the year 2019.
My main goal 2019 is to get closer to my vision for my Shorty Bull’s. When people sees my productions, they’ll say that’s a Coastline Bullies pup!
Describe how you would want things, in the bully breed Community, to be 10 years from now.
I’m hoping for less drama and more unity. I know it’s human nature to be competitive, but there’s has to be a more positive way to do that.
What separates your kennel from the competition?
With me, I treat my productions as an extension of the Coastline Bullies family. That’s what my current puppy owners told me. They love knowing I’m there for them. I keep in touch and we have yearly meet ups and a group chat. We share everything about our dogs from pics to any concerns they might have.
What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?
I’m into basketball. That’s my main thing.
What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?
I think Bully Girl Magazine is great! Bully Girl helps bully breeds gain exposure in a positive way. We need that nowadays!
