Texas Five Star Bullies
State your name, and where your kennel is located.
My name is Gilbert Herrera, and I am the owner of Texas Five Star Bullies Kennel, located in Bastrop, TX.
What type of dogs do you breed, and what inspired you to get involved with that particular breed?
I breed standard American Bully’s. I’ve been an animal lover all my life and just fell in love with the breed’s temperament, willingness to please, protective nature, and their overall look. They are amazing dogs, that have such a calming quality to themselves. They are amazing protectors, and extremely loyal.
What type of diet do you keep your dogs on throughout the year?
They get a blended high protein diet, with a mix of omega 3’s and fish oils, for their coat and skin.
What is your favorite bloodline?
I would have to say my favorite bloodline is the ‘Homie’ bloodline, out of California. Thee Bus and Beastro from The Bully Market, are amazing dogs! Those guys are doing big things out there!
Do you currently show, any of your dogs?
Not at the moment. Kids and sports take over my weekends currently.
What advice do you have for any upcoming breeders?
Don’t get discouraged, and breed for the look you love. A lot of people get lost in the hype and forget what it’s all about.
What do you think, is the most difficult thing for people in the bully game to overcome?
Just the stereotype of the breed itself. I’ve always said, there aren’t bad dogs, just bad owners.
How do you think they can overcome this thing?
Education is the key! The more people can get the word out and properly educate the public, the closer we get to overcoming this completely unfair stereotype.
Who do you look up to in the bully game, and why?
I would say I look up to the guys at The Bully Market and the Carolina Bully Farm camp. They have a love and passion for what they do, and I admire that. They aren’t in it for just the money or fame. They have a genuine love for the breed.
Tell us about one of your most memorable moments, in 2016 so far.
It would have to be my first in-house breeding that I was able to do on my own. This year I’m trying some new things, and gearing up to make a name for myself in this game.
Describe how you would want things, in the bully Commuity, to be 10 years from now.
I would hope that some of my fellow breeders would let go of the greediness. There are too many out there trying too hard to make a name and paycheck for themselves, that they are not breeding safely. They are trying to hard to get the smallest exotic or inbreeding down, and I don’t feel that they are looking out for the dogs health and well being. I’m not saying I discriminate against any breeds or sizes, because I have an appreciation for the game as a whole, and I’ve definitely seen some amazing animals from XXL’s to micro minis. I just wish people wouldn’t lose sight of what’s really important, just to make a dollar, and that’s the dog itself.
What separates your kennel from the competition?
I would have to say a couple things. First, the fact that I am very selective in what I’m looking for, in my camp. I’m not out there just breeding whatever I can find to get my numbers up. I put a lot of time and effort into finding the exact features I’m looking for, so I can make sure I get the best end result. Secondly, I genuinely care where my dogs, and puppies go. I have to feel like you’re going to treat your dog like your kid or it’s a no go.
What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?
I am an avid outdoorsman. I love to hunt and fish. I also have four two legged kids, that keep me very busy with sports and other activities.
What motto do you live by?
“If you continuously compete with others, you become bitter, but if you continuously compete with yourself, you become better.”
What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?
I think it’s a great magazine, that shows the bully breeds in such a positive light. It’s always full of useful information, that is not only helpful to a novice, but also seasoned vets in the bully world. They always have awesome dogs, and fascinating articles inside each issue. I’m honored to be a small part of it.
