Ash & Stone Bullies: Pocket American Bully Breeder in Massachusetts

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

My name is Ash Williams, of Ash & Stone Bullies. You can find us in Massachusetts.

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

I breed Pocket American Bullies.  I’ve always loved the bully breeds. Prior to owning Bullies I had an American pit-bull terrier.  After he passed, I was looking for a breed with similar traits, but less prey driven, and with lower energy.  

My research led me to American Bullies.  I loved the look of the pocket bullies and set out to find a bully pup.  Once we got our first bully pup home, I fell head over heels. There is no doubt this is my breed for life.  

What is your favorite bloodline? 

I’ve always admired the Louis V line. So many amazing dogs have come from this line. In particular, I really love Venom, and admire how well-built and consistent his offspring are. 

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

I think people who put the dogs first, are typically going to be more responsible breeders.  Responsible breeders always make sure they go about all things in a way that places the dogs health and well being as their priority. 

Responsible breeders prepare themselves for all situations by educating themselves and always learning as much as possible about their dogs' breed. For me, a few great ways to learn have been taking notes every time my dogs are with my vet, keeping in touch with all of the breeders I’ve purchased puppies from and reading the most current bully publications such as Bully girl Magazine.

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

We are blessed to have a farm In our family. So we have access to a lot of pasture raised animals and organic vegetables. This allows me to feed my bullies farm fresh raw meals. I also feed Orijen kibble w/ Liquid Gold. 

How many times a day do you feed your dogs?

The pack has access to Orijen kibble 24/7, and are given raw meals one or twice daily. We also rotate multiple add-ins, such as Manuka Honey or Brewers Yeast for healthy coat/skin. We also add salmon oil or green lipped mussel powder for the joints.

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

We Love hiking with the pack. It’s part of our daily routine in all seasons.  The Berkshires are bountiful with beautiful hiking trails, so there is no shortage of new pack adventures. We also frequently bring the pack to the family farm to let them run around the fields and gardens. 

Walk us through the process of purchasing a pup from Ash & Stone Bullies from start to finish.  

We will have a brief questionnaire to fill out, which will ensure we find the best fit for each pup.  Once the pup is ready to go to his or her new home, we will provide a starter pack for new pup parents. 

Following in the footsteps of those I’ve gotten puppies from, we will always be available for any questions throughout the dog's life. We also plan to follow up with the new owners to get feedback on the pups new home, as well as the developmental growth and progress.

Do you currently show any of your dogs?  

At the moment we do not, but I hope to in the very near future. 

What advice does Ash & Stone Bullies have for any upcoming breeders?

Research research research!  Do your homework as much as possible. Speak with local vet's and be sure you find a vet who’s comfortable with breeding bullies. Read up on what breeding entails. Talk to breeders who have done it for a while, so you know what you're getting into. 

A lot goes into breeding these dogs. Make sure you have the time and money to do things right.  Most important, be sure you're getting into breeding for the right reasons. 

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

The breed is very misunderstood. Learning how to handle the misconceptions / judgements was difficult for me when I got my first bully. However,  over time I have learned that it provides an opportunity for me as an owner to educate people about the breed.

How do you think they can overcome this thing?

Learn about your breed so you can help educate people who have inaccurate misconceptions about the bully breed. They may not listen, but you can move forward knowing you did what you could to promote positive knowledge about your breed.  

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

I really admire Jaci the owner of House Of Bully. She has been a mentor to me ever since we purchased a puppy from her. She has made herself available to me anytime I need help and always provides me with excellent information. I really respect how she operates her kennel, she does things in a way that always puts the dogs first.  I strive to do things in that manner.  I also look up to Michael Richardson of Good money bullz. He has been there to help me with a lot of my questions about the bully world.   I admire the way he always helps others & wants them to win. 

Tell us about one of Ash & Stone Bullies main goals for the year 2021. 

I hope to continue learning about this amazing breed.  We also hope to add a new stud, produced by us, to our lineup. Lastly, of course we would like to  produce some beautiful bully pups. 

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

I hope the breed will be better understood. I’d like for more people to know the difference between Bullies and Pits. It would be wonderful for there to be clearer class regulations. I believe by having a stricter set of breed qualifications, it will make a better and more consistent bully.  

What separates Ash & Stone Bullies from the competition?

All of our dogs are part of the family; from sleeping in bed with us to traveling everywhere we go. These dogs are never kenneled. We also feed them grass fed, farm raised meat from the time they are puppies. 

I prepare specific meal plans for each member of the pack ensuring they have the very best diet.  I also prepare special homemade treats. We go on daily hikes and adventures. They are very spoiled with love, treats and toys. I feel I provide them with the very best life I possibly can. As a result, they live very happy healthy lives.

What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?                      

I also have two horses. I try to go riding any chance I can. It’s very relaxing. I also really like to garden and watch things grow.  I love cooking for my family, and when there’s time I love to bake. 

What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?

Bully Girl Magazine is a wonderful publication to learn about the bully breed. Every issue gives you the opportunity to see some of the most impressive bullies on the planet.