ThickSkull Bullies: Standard and XL American Bully Breeder

State your name, your kennel, and where your kennel is located.

We are Shelby and Zoe Tyer, of ThickSkull Bullies. We are located in Texas.

What type of dogs do you breed, and what inspired you to get involved with that particular breed?

We breed standard and XL American Bullies. We were inspired at different times, with how therapeutic and emotionally supportive the bully breed is. We just hope to give back to them, as much as they have provided us and other families.

What is your favorite bloodline?

My favorite bloodline is Razors Edge.

In your opinion, what are the characteristics of a responsible dog breeder?

A responsible breeder will make sure they know the breeds temperament and needs (food, health, & exercise). Responsible breeders are willing to provide a list of health checks and appropriate documents, for pedigree assurance. Breeders should provide contracts, as well as a lifetime “take back” guarantee. A responsible breeder will socialize puppies, and ensure they are going to the best possible homes.

What type of diet do you keep your dogs on throughout the year?

At ThickSkull Bullies, we keep our kennel on a dry and raw mix throughout the year. Our preferred choice of dry is Victor Beef Meal & Brown Rice Formula.

How many times a day do you feed your dogs?

After puppies come off their moms, we feed them twice a day. Our adults eat once a day. However, if one of our dogs has different needs, we accommodate within our feeding schedule.  

How does ThickSkull Bullies keep its dogs in shape throughout the year?

Our dogs love to work out and stay active. While they individually have their favorite activities; we try to keep it interesting between the hanging rope, teaser pole, tug, fetch, going for walks, and we are starting to incorporate weighted vests. Honestly, they love nothing more than getting out and being social.

Walk us through the process of purchasing a pup from your kennel from start to finish.

If one is interested in purchasing a puppy, they can expect to have:

• signed contracts
• review of best fit 
• open lines of communication
• transparency
• health checks
• current on shots per age
• puppies will be healthy and socialize
• future check-ins and a “take back” guarantee

Does ThickSkull Bullies currently show any dogs?

We have not stepped in the show world just yet, but expect to see us around in the near future.

What advice do you have for any upcoming breeders?

Most importantly, stay true to your vision! Learn as much as you possibly can, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

What do you think is the most difficult thing for people in the bully game to overcome?

The quick start up kennels, that are breeding for money, instead of quality. These kennels make it extremely difficult for new kennels to be taken seriously.

How do you think they can overcome this thing?

Research anyone you plan to collaborate with. Ensure the pedigrees actually match up. Breed for quality,  temperament and structure. Avoid current fads.

Who do you look up to in the bully game, and why?

Concrete Bully Kennels, Taino Bully Cartel, West Texas High Life Bullies, Iron Bully Kennel, Backwood Bullies, and Swag are amongst our top favorites. They are extremely knowledgeable, have stayed true to their visions, and don’t get caught up in the hype/drama. You can truly see how passionate they are with their kennels and productions.

Tell us about one of ThickSkull Bullies main goals for the year 2020.

Our main goals this year are to collaborate with Navy Chief Kennel, Riddick-Beau Kennel, and Taino Bully Cartel. We have been creating superb match ups with some off the chart pedigrees.

Describe how you would want things, in the bully breed Community, to be 10 years from now.

We would love to see the bully community continue to change one mind at a time. We are working with one of the most amazing breeds in the world. It would be nice to see true diversity in the show world, recognizing all bully breeds and their owners. This has been underway for quite some time, improving year after year.

What separates your kennel from the competition?

We aren’t in a hurry. We never look to pair our dogs up for a quick buck. At ThickSkull Bullies the goal is to bring back that original sleek and solid structure/foundation. We want to continue to see our productions grow, and be a solid board for those families to grow with.

What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?

Family takes priority; human and furry. We love being active, traveling, photography, making a mess in the kitchen, sports, fishing, and just being spontaneous overall.

What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?

Bully Girl is an amazing magazine that features the old and new. Bully Girl Magazine not only showcases kennels from all over, but there is always great learning information available also. We are always looking forward to each new issue.