State your name, your kennel, and where your kennel is located.
My name is Amber Thomas, owner of Kentucky Style Bullys. You can find us in Lebanon, KY.
What type of dogs do you breed, and what inspired you to get involved with that particular breed?
I breed American Bully’s. Three years ago a friend of mine had a litter of pups, and one of them just really stuck out to me. My husband and I went to go get him. This pup was a little blue brindle boy. We were instantly in love with this little blue brindle pup, named Boone. Boone was our first bully.
As he grew, we couldn’t have asked for a better family dog. Boone fits our life style perfectly. I started really doing research on the breed and just fell even more in love with them. So, I guess, Boone is who inspired me. I just try to shine a positive light and give a good representation of the breed. Boone still keeps me inspired, and he is what I base my program around.
In your opinion, what are the characteristics of a responsible dog breeder?
A responsible breeder follows the breed standard, and makes sure his dogs have the functionality and temperament to match. Personally, I want a dog that can work, play, and go all day with my family. However, I also think a responsible breeder works closely with their customers. For us, once you get a puppy from my yard, you are part of the family.
What type of diet do you keep your dogs on throughout the year?
My dogs diet is mainly a dry kibble that is produced by Bardstown Mills. We also occasionally add raw diet, canned food, and/or dyne.
What is your favorite bloodline?
Remyline is probably my favorite bloodline. I love the structure and muscle definition in that line. Greyline would be another favorite. It’s hard to choose from the original bloodlines. I like something out of all of them.
Does Kentucky Style Bullys currently show any dogs?
This is our first year of showing our dogs. We have two of our dogs going to a BRC show on the 29th of this month.
What advice do you have for any upcoming breeders?
Do your research, and find a support system. Look for someone that has been in the game that is willing to help you and answer your questions. Be humble, listen to advice, and produce the dogs that fit what you want, not what everyone else wants, or is already producing.
What do you think is the most difficult thing for people in the bully game to overcome?
I’m still pretty new to the bully world. To me, it seems like the hardest thing for people in the bully game to overcome is accepting another breeders vision that is different than theirs. I see so many breeders being hateful and harsh to other breeders because they breed a different style than them. There’s no reason to bash someone’s dog or their investment. If it’s not what you are wanting to produce then just move on.
How do you think they can overcome this thing?
I think if we should all come together and support one another. Let’s just stop judging and treat each other with respect. We are all trying to produce the best of our style of bully.
Who do you look up to in the bully game, and why?
Years ago, when I started this venture, I met Sarah Roach (owner of GrCh. Timbo). Sarah has really helped guide and mentor me in the Bully World, without pushing her vision on me. She produces amazing dogs, but stays humble and honest. I appreciate the time Sarah has taken to get me to where I am.
Tell us about one of Kentucky Style Bullys main goals for the year 2019.
My main goal for this year is to champ out my very first bully, Boone, at the show. Boone and I started this together, and nothing would make me more proud than to see him get a title.
Describe how you would want things, in the bully breed Community, to be 10 years from now.
I just want to see people lifting each other up, working together, and striving to produce clean, quality dogs.
What separates Kentucky Style Bullys from the competition?
I’d like to say that my dogs set me apart, especially my up and coming dogs. But, I think the main thing that sets Kentucky Style Bullys apart is our willingness to help others when they ask us. We try to mentor and offer advice to any of the newcomers. We want to be apart of other kennels success and make life long friends along the way.
What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?
My family and I are avid hunters. So we are very active in any hunting season that is going on. We also enjoy lake life, homesteading, and sports.
What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?
I love what Bully Girl Magazine is about. I’ve really enjoyed reading the other interviews, and gaining insight from other kennels from many different places! Also, thank you for this opportunity to do this interview!
