State your name, your kennel, and where your kennel is located.
We are Cassi Johnston and Emily Tucker, founders of Queens Kennel. You can find us in Star City, Arkansas.
What type of dogs do you breed, and what inspired you to get involved with that particular breed?
I have pocket and XL American Bullies, and have been breeding for 7 years now. I first fell in love with the American Bully while working at a vet clinic, and meeting a few of them. Later, I decided that I wanted to be a part of the bully world.
In your opinion, what are the characteristics of a responsible dog breeder?
I think that the right heart is very important, and being eager to learn from other breeders. Also, humbleness is another great characteristic. Responsible breeders possess a love of dogs and the breed. They want to better the breed, and are lifetime lifelines for their customers and puppy families.
What type of diet do you keep your dogs on throughout the year?
We feed Purina Naturals to our dogs. When we have pregnant or nursing moms, we use supplements such as Oxymom, Oxymate, and also Liquid Gold. These supplements are fantastic for keeping moms in the very best shape.
What is your favorite bloodline?
I would have to say for pockets, I love everything from Grand Champion DAX. For XL’s, I don’t think anyone can argue that Bossy Kennels is one of the best bloodlines.
Do you currently show any of your dogs?
My two XL females were not raised in the show environment, so I don’t currently show them. I do have my 7 month old pocket female, Panama, that will start showing soon!
What advice does Queens Kennel have for any upcoming breeders?
Learn as much as possible, and listen to people who have been breeding for a long time. Also, find a mentor that is eager to help you learn, and not just to sell you a puppy.
What do you think is the most difficult thing for people in the bully game to overcome?
I think way too many people in the bully game can’t overcome their own pride. They don’t stay humble and learn from others. Most people think they can do everything on their own without mentors.
How do you think they can overcome this thing?
By being humble, and seeking out a good mentor.
Who do you look up to in the bully game, and why?
Oh wow, there are so many people. For XL’s I look up to Kat at Bossy Kennels. Kat is in a league of her own. I also look up to Renee at Gatorhead Bullies. I love seeing women make a way for themselves. When it comes to the Pocket Bullies,
I look up to Ed Shepherd (RIP), with the whole legacy he created for the pocket bully world. It’s incredible, and he remained humble throughout his whole journey, while still being eager to help others learn about the dogs and the breed.
Tell us about one of Queens Kennel main goals for the year 2019.
My main goal for this year is to produce some amazing dogs, and get them out into the community to show people that our breed is exceptional. I want to break the breed’s misconceptions. I also look forward to adding more people to the Queens Kennel family.
Describe how you would want things, in the bully breed Community, to be 10 years from now.
I would love for the bully community to start breeding towrads the standard, and begin health testing their the dogs in their breeding program.
What separates Queens Kennel from the competition?
I believe my customer service is the best in the breed. I’ve been told by several of my customers, that have bought from 3-4 other kennels, that my customer service and eagerness to answer questions is beyond comparable to others.
Also, I am working towards completely health testing my whole program. For the future, I only want to bring in other health tested dogs. I don’t feel like nearly enough breeders do this.
What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?
I am a dog groomer, and toddler mom.
What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?
I think Bully Girl is amazing! It’s great to see a community that shows love and support for the women in our breed.
