Who is Crowned Kennels?
State your name, and where your kennel is located.
My name is Darren Cato, and my kennel – Crowned Kennels, is located in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.
What type of dogs do you breed, and what inspired you to get involved with that particular breed?
I breed the American Bully. My reason for choosing this breed is that they have that “wow” factor in terms of appearance; yet they are gentle giants, loving companions, and excellent family dogs.
What type of diet do you keep your dogs on throughout the year?
I feed a mix of raw and kibble.
What is your favorite bloodline?
My favorite bloodline would have to be Gottiline/Daxline hands down.
Do you currently show, any of your dogs?
I haven’t had any dogs in any bully shows yet, but I hope to start in the near future.
What advice do you have for any upcoming breeders?
Stay focused, don’t be distracted by everything that surrounds the bully community. Breed quality dogs and lets all work together to improve the breed.
What do you think, is the most difficult thing for people in the bully game to overcome?
Kennel Blindness, because it renders breeders incapable of acknowledging faults, and working towards fixing them.
How do you think they can overcome this thing?
Stay humble and keep an open mind when receiving criticism/advice from others. Welcome the good and the bad, and use it accordingly.
Who do you look up to in the bully game, and why?
I would have to say Eminent/Runway Bullies. They have been in the game for a number of years. I love that they have a very consistent program, which I myself would like to achieve. These 2 kennels have stuck to their vision, and stayed true to the breed. They have also created a number of my personal favorites, Phenom, Status, and Boss, just to name a few. On top of being successful breeders, they are also very welcoming and trustworthy. That is something I feel is super important to possess in the game.
Tell us about one of Crowned Kennels most memorable moments, in 2016 so far.
My most memorable moment for 2016 would have to be meeting Alex Ferraro and his boy CH. Lucky Luciano, at the Windy City Roundup in Chicago. Lucky is another favorite of mine, and to see him in person was an experience I wont soon forget. Not only was I blown away by CH. Lucky, but I got to meet one of the most humble guys in the game in Alex. Talking to him taught me a lot and thats what its all about for me. Meeting great people, great dogs, and learning lessons.
Describe how you would want things, in the bully Community, to be 10 years from now.
I hope to see the breed move past the stereotypes and discrimination. There needs to be more togetherness from those involved with the breed, and most of all, healthier bullies. As the breed increases in popularity I can only hope to see the negatives associated with the breed become a thing of the past.
What separates Crowned Kennels from the competition?
When you come to Crowned Kennels I try to stay professional. I show love and respect to everyone I come in contact with, whether it be to do business or just talk dogs. I strive to provide every customer with a healthy and quality companion.
What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?
I am an avid cricket player and I also represent my country on our National cricket team. Being that we are on an island, I spend a lot of time at the beach and on the boat enjoying the sea and sun. Our dogs also enjoy the beautiful beaches and love to swim.
What motto do you live by?
The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you can not do.
What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?
I love Bully Girl Magazine. In the beginning, Bully Girl Magazine, and their social media outlets, were my only way of keeping up with the breed. Their work is an excellent avenue for promotion, and most importantly information for upcoming and established breeders. Bully Girl Mag’s efforts and work inspire and educate the bully community.