Big Apple Bullies | Pocket American Bully Breeder in New York

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

My name is Juan Morales. I am the CEO and co-founder of Big Apple Bullies. You can find us on ig @bigapplebullies. My kennel partner is my brother. His name is Jeremy. Big Apple Bullies is located in the Bronx, NY. 

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

I breed pocket American Bullies. I was inspired to breed them because I always loved the classic Pit Bull look, but I wanted something smaller with more muscle. Once I saw the American Bullies come into fruition, I jumped on board. 

What is your favorite bloodline?

My favorite bloodline is the Short Muscle blood line. I love the look of their bullies. They are small,  functional, have a clean look, and are boned all the way up. 

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

In my opinion a responsible dog breeder is honest and loyal, not only to his or her customers but to his/her dogs as well. Direct interbreeding for looks is a huge issue that causes many birth defects, and many dogs suffer because of this. I also believe responsible breeders educate their customers on the breed they are purchasing, not only on the bloodline, but temperament as well.

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

My dogs are on a mixed diet throughout the year. I feed them Origin dry kibble combined with a mixed raw recipe consisting of bison, trout, chicken, and mixed berries.

How many times a day do you feed your dogs?

I typically feed my dogs twice a day. They receive breakfast around 8am and then dinner around 6pm. 

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

Throughout the year, I make sure my dogs are active, even during winter. I usually take them to dog parks, or to a friend's house so all the dogs can play and socialize together. 

Walk us through the process of purchasing a pup from Big Apple Bullies from start to finish.

Purchasing a pup from my kennel is pretty simple. 

• I usually advertise an upcoming breeding with banners and instagram posts. 
• Then a customer will message me regarding the breeding. 
• Once they see a puppy they like, they can leave a deposit, which is highly recommended as puppies sell extremely fast. 
• Once the puppy is ready for his or her forever home, I typically meet the customer, so they can see their pup in action, as well as see the parents.

Do you currently show any of your dogs?

I have not shown my dogs yet, but I will be attending shows soon. I seek to champ out my dogs quite rapidly.  

What advice do you have for any upcoming breeders?

Starting your own kennel can be quite cumbersome. You have to be dedicated and driven. There will be hiccups in the road, but that is how life is. I strongly recommend starting with someone you truly trust. The work is so much easier when working with a team. 

You also have to do your research. The breeding game is so much more than just purchasing a dog. Quality dogs are expensive, so make sure you save up. 

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

One huge thing I think is difficult to overcome in the Bully Game is losing a dog. It is extremely difficult and hard to stomach at times. These dogs become part of your family, and their life is important. Losing a litter is also super difficult. You invest so much into exams, ai’s, stud fees, and so on. So when there is no gift at the end, it can be demoralizing. 

How do you think they can overcome this thing?

They can overcome this by incorporating very strict rules in regards to organization and procedures. You don’t want to cut any small steps, because skipping steps can land you three steps behind. Make sure your dogs are well taken care of. For some they are pets, for others they are investments, and for many others they are both.

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

I look up to Ryan at Murdough kennels, and Cisco and Izzy from Bully Pride Kennels. They have taken their time to take me under the wing, and show me the ins and outs to the dog game. I am very fortunate for them. 

Tell us about one of Big Apple Bullies main goals for 2021.

One of my main goals is to establish my kennel as one of the best Pocket Bully Kennels in the game. I know it will take a lot of dedication and persistence, but I am in it to win it. Another main goal of mine is to show my dogs, and hopefully champ them out.  

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

In ten years I hope the bully game will be more cohesive and united. I feel like there is a lot of love in the bully game, and we can really put this breed out there if we all collaborate. 

What separates Big Apple Bullies from the competition?

There are many things that separate Big Apple Bullies from the rest. We pride ourselves in having some of the best blue tri’s in the game. All of our dogs are boned up, clean, and have amazing temperament. Aside from our dogs, my kennel has great customer service. We develop relationships with all of our customers, and also have many returning customers. 

When you purchase a bully from us you are a part of Big Apple Bullies for life. We always encourage our customers to send us photo updates, or to reach out whenever they have any questions/concerns.

What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?

I am an amateur boxer, and I also am an 8th grade English teacher. When I am not with the dogs, I spend a bulk of my time working out, training with friends, and reading on how to become a better educator. 

What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?

I think Bully Girl Magazine is super dope. I’ve been reading it since I was a young teen. This magazine has remained consistent and relevant for a while now. I also really love how inmates have access to the magazine as well. I appreciate you featuring us in the magazine.