Xena's Legacy Bullies: American Bully Breeder in Massachusetts

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

My name is Amanda Roughgarden. My kennel name is Xena's Legacy Bullies and we are located in Springfield, Massachusetts.

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

I currently breed American Bullies. In my younger years I bred Pitbulls. What led me to get involved with American Bullies was the loss of my beloved Staffy Angel. I reached out to a family member in hopes of finding a pitbull puppy and they told me about a female American Bully they had for sale. At that time I didn't even know what an American Bully was, I researched the breed and was very intrigued. Long story short I bought her, Xena, and from there grew my love of the breed and desire to breed American Bullies. 

What is your favorite bloodline?

My favorite bloodlines are Razors Edge and Gottiline, I love old school blood. Nothing compares to the look of a clean, correct, proper American Bully. The original American Bully.

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

In my opinion the characteristics of a responsible dog breeder are # 1 putting your dog's health/well being before everything. You have to be willing to sacrifice time, energy, and lots of money. You have to be all in, there's no half way in when being a responsible dog breeder.

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

I mainly keep my dogs on a kibble (hard dog food) diet. I add fruits, vegetables, yogurt, eggs, and supplements such as origins for added nutrition & vitamins. I give my dogs raw occasionally but not on a daily basis. I also make them homemade liver snacks and peanut butter cookie treats.

Are there any specific brands of dog food that you recommend? 

A brand of dog food that I recommend is Acana. Red Meat with Grains is a great recipe, as well as their Singles line for dogs with allergies/sensitivities. I recommend the Lamb and Pumpkin recipe. 

How many times a day do you feed your dogs?

I feed my dogs twice daily. Once in the morning and once in the evening.

How do you keep your dogs in shape throughout the year? 

The way I keep my dogs in shape throughout the year is by walking them multiple times daily. We frequent our local parks, love hiking and exploring trails together.

Walk us through the process of purchasing a pup from Xena's Legacy Bullies from start to finish. 

• When purchasing a puppy from me I will ask questions to determine what it is you are looking for in owning a puppy.
• Your preference of male or female, as well as will it be a companion animal/pet home, a potential show home, or breeder. Basic questions about lifestyle and family to ensure the pup goes to the right loving home.
• Once this is done and you are approved, you will be put on a list and notified when a puppy that meets your desires becomes available.
• Picks are made at 6 weeks. From there I will send you a puppy contract.
• You can purchase and pick up your puppy at 8 weeks.
• They come fully vaccinated & ABKC registered. Once you have your new family member I ask that you keep in contact so I may help with any questions or concerns as well as keep up with the pups well being throughout their life.

Do you currently show any of your dogs? 

I have shown Tank and will be back in the ring 2023 working towards his champion title.

What advice does Xena's Legacy Bullies have for any upcoming breeders? 

My advice for upcoming breeders is do your research. Learn the breed and its history. Study bloodlines/pedigrees. Plan your breedings strategically, don't rush. Get your finances in order. Too many people get into this thinking it's a get rich quick scheme, it isn't!! You put in more than you get out at first. It takes time, patience, dedication and determination. Be prepared for losses, they happen more frequently than most breeders speak on.

 

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

People I look up to in the bully game are Omar Baez, as well as Luis & Leida of OLK EVOLUTION. Omar is one of the first people I've met in the bully game. He has been extremely helpful throughout everything from showing Tank, to picking a foundation female. He has always been honest and straightforward. He knows the breed and has been breeding American Bullies for a very long time. Luis & Leida are amazing breeders with a very well established kennel. Their American Bullies are top tier. They are a family run kennel, I respect and admire them hugely.

Tell us about one of Xena's Legacy Bullies main goals for 2022.

One of my main goals for 2022 is to get back in school and finish vet tech. I signed backup and will be attending classes next semester.

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

Ten years from now I'd want the bully community to be connected, positive, supportive, and most importantly working together to breed American Bullies to the standard. Putting their bullies health and well being above everything.

What separates Xena's Legacy Bullies from the competition?

What separates my kennel from the competition is that my kennel is small and I intend to keep it that way. I'm just a dog loving woman from a small city, trying to better the American Bully breed by breeding only the best bullies. My dogs are family, not just tools.

What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?

Some other hobbies and interests of mine are anything to do with the outdoors and spending time with family. I love camping and being out in the woods. I love to read, research, and learn about all types of subjects.

What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine? 

Bully Girl Magazine is an awesome way to learn more about the breed and connect with other breeders. It's very informative and I recommend everyone read the Bully Girl Magazines as well as download the app. There's something for everyone. Even if you are not a breeder and are simply a dog enthusiast you will love the content of their magazines.