State your name, your kennel, and where your kennel is located.
My name is Elizabeth Holland, owner of Southern Bred Bullies. You can find us in Dothan, Alabama.
What type of dogs do you breed, and what inspired you to get involved with that particular breed?
I breed Bull Terriers & American Bullies. I started with Bull Terriers about 13 years ago. Bull Terriers are a very challenging breed and that inspired me. They are very loyal family oriented dogs. When I decided to breed them, I wanted to share how I felt with my bull terriers with others. I’ve always kept in tune with buyers to make sure they could handle the breed.
Next came the American Bully’s. When I first met Rickey Ricardo, I absolutely fell in love with him. I had to have one of his sons! That dream came true with my Champion CHAOS (owned by Paulina & Dakota Gamez) X Rickey Ricardo son, GRCH The Saga CONTINUES. We have since bred him in house. Puppies are kept silent, as we have plans for them.
In your opinion, what are the characteristics of a responsible dog breeder?
A responsible breeder is someone who is breeding to better the American Bully Breed. Responsible breeders make conscience decisions with the breed in mind, rather than just money. Let’s be real, being a breeder is far from a “Get Rich Scheme”. Many reasons and roles come into play when we plan a breeding. A lot of time, money and effort also goes into breeding.
What type of diet do you keep your dogs on throughout the year?
We like to feed Raw (Beef, Tripe and Venison). We also give supplements, such as NuVet, to ensure our dogs and pups are healthy. I truly believe that RAW is way more beneficial than kibble.
What is your favorite bloodline?
My favorite bloodline with the Bull Terriers would have to be Rocky Tops Sundance Kid, owned by Barbara and Tom Bishop. Their line of Bull Terriers are impressive and very well structured. As far as the American Bullies go, my favorite bloodline would have to be Razors Edge. Razors Edge is a bloodline for everyone. They are show quality, correct bullies, with a few overdone dogs (overdone meaning extreme bone, head, and chest). At the same time, Razors edge has very clean dogs compared to other lines.
Do you currently show any of your dogs?
I do! I champed out both my male and female Bull Terriers, CH. WEDGIE IN TOO DEEP and CH. BONAFIDE HOTTIE, with the help of Jose Gorriz. I have also started showing my GRCH. Saga Son, SNAPPBACC.
What advice do you have for any upcoming breeders?
My advice would be to have a goal. Breed with a purpose. Also, not all dogs are meant to be bred. Seek lots of knowledge prior. I understand not all can be taught. A lot is learned along the way. Lastly, don’t be kennel blind. Allow others who are reputable to help guide you.
What do you think is the most difficult thing for people in the bully game to overcome?
The most difficult things for people to overcome are Ignorance and being miseducated. Don’t breed just to breed. Show the world your best representation of the American Bully Breed.
How do you think they can overcome this thing?
Learn how to take constructive criticism. There are others whom are really trying to help. If someone says “That dog isn’t breed worthy”, take that info and do better. Find yourself a good mentor in the bully game who has credibility, and look up to them.
Who do you look up to in the bully game, and why?
I’d have to say Jose Gorriz, Robert & Cassandra Lee, Diana Perez, and Ed Shepherd to name a few. They are all very knowledgeable and want what’s best for the breed. I’m thankful to be able to learn from them. (R.I.P Ed Shepherd)
Tell us about one of Southern Bred Bullies main goals for the year 2020.
One of my main goals for 2020 is to produce and show compact pocket American Bullies, that are correct . I want to keep pushing my boy Grand Champion Saga. The work doesn’t stop. I want everyone to recognize Saga for the great pocket American Bully that he is. He’s a remarkable boy has just begun!
Describe how you would want things, in the bully breed Community, to be 10 years from now.
I’d like to see more people participate in showing and showcasing their bloodlines. Also, I would love to see the junior handler program become bigger than what it is today. This really is a family oriented community. Let’s educate one another, and better the breed.
What separates Southern Bred Bullies from the competition?
I’m hands on with everything in my kennel. There is NO paid help. I run and manage all the dog’s medicines, food, pictures, paperwork and showing. I take my time with breeding and make decisions that will better the dogs rather than myself. Sometimes we keep litters to see how they turn out before we ever think about getting buyers interest. I make sure what I put out to the public is nothing but the best.
What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?
I’m a mom to 3 beautiful kids: Mattie , Ali & James. We live our lives to raise smart, well behaved kids. So the dog family we are. We also take a lot of time to make sure our kids become all they can be in this world. I’m also a crafter, photographer, and I help run two kennels (Cuban Bully Cartel & Southern Bred Bullies).
What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?
I’m truly inspired that Bully Girl recognizes women for their part in the Bully world. That’s empowering ?. We all need a great platform to be recognized. Thank you BGM ❤
Photo credit: Christopher Rashad Dantzler
