State your name, your kennel, and where your kennel is located?
My name is Orlando Martin, owner and founder of Martin Family Bullyz. You can find us in Houston, Texas.
What type of dogs do you breed, and what inspired you to get involved with that particular breed?
We are currently breeding fully functional designer American Bullies. I was inspired by the fact that this breed has such a powerful look that shows strength, muscle, courage, smarts, and drive. Yet, at the same time the American Bully can be as gentle as a feather. Also, there is so much variety within the breed, such as color, and bloodline. The American Bully breed allows you to be very creative, which is amazing and I love it.
In your opinion, what are the characteristics of a responsible dog breeder?
Some of the characteristics I feel are important in being a responsible dog breeder are
- 1. You have to care!
- 2. It’s very good to be informative on what you are breeding and/or selling.
- 3. You definitely want to be knowledgeable on the breed in which you are working with.
- 4. Always keep it real. A responsible breeder will never let a puppy go too early before proper immunization and socialization has occurred.
That’s just a few off the top of my head, however there are so many more.
What type of diet do you keep your dogs on throughout the year?
The diets honestly vary from dog to dog, depending on there needs and so on. However, to answer the question in a more detailed manner, if I’m not feeding raw I would feed a grain free diet with a supplement of choice.
What is your favorite bloodline?
I must say, my favorite bloodline would have to be Miagi. The Miagi bloodline definitely runs heavy throughout my yard, and will continue to with my own little tweaks here and there.
Do you currently show, any of your dogs?
I currently do not show any dogs, however that is definitely something I want to start doing.
What advice do you have for any upcoming breeders?
The best advice I could give to any upcoming breeder is stay true to your vision, breed with a purpose, and last but not least never give up!
What do you think, is the most difficult thing for people in the bully game to overcome?
I think the most difficult thing to overcome is the pressure that is put on you when first start off. This dog game is very opinionated. With that being said, you have to learn to have tough skin because your dog will more then likely not be everyone’s cup of tea, and that is perfectly okay.
How do you think they can overcome this thing?
Just remember why you got in the game in the first place. Hopefully there was a great reason, so you want to hold on to that. You must stay focused and be strong. Stay true to your vision and keep breeding with a purpose.
Who do you look up to in the bully game, and why?
I look up to anyone that is really just putting on for this breed, and shedding light in a positive way to better the American bully as a whole. There are a lot of impressive people I’ve personally met so far, and I can never express enough how grateful I am.
Tell us about one of your main goals for the year 2019?
One of Martin Family Bullyz main goals for 2019 is to get out there to one of those shows in our area, and not only show, but possibly place in the show as well.
Describe how you would want things, in the bully breed Community, to be 10 years from now?
Definitely not how it is now! Like I stated before, the bully game is heavily opinionated. I just wish that ten years from now, there will be more unity. Things could also be a bit more cleaned up, but I don’t think that has to do with the dogs as much as ourselves. I believe us dog owners can take this specific breed somewhere really good. We all have to just stay true, and really stand behind our breed, no question about it.
What separates your kennel from the competition?
There are many competitors out there with a lot have amazing programs. However, our thing over here is not to out do the next man, but simply work and perfect our program. We are constantly finding ways to better ourselves, not just the dogs. With that said we are our only competition. We strive out do ourselves one litter at a time. There is no rush! We will get there, and show you all our idea of what an American bully should be.
What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?
When I’m not going crazy for the dogs, I do have a big growing family I like to call my empire. I’m a husband to an amazing woman, and I am a father of 4, with one currently on the way in a few weeks. So yeah, I have my hands a bit tied up, and I’m usually busy. However, I love every bit, and that’s what Martin Family Bullyz is all about. It’s bigger than just breeding dogs for us.
What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?
It’s amazing what Bully Girl Magazine is doing for the bully community. I love it. Keep up such the outstanding work. God bless you.