House of Bully: American Bully Breeder in Canada

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

Hey! My name is Jaci Kumer, owner of House of Bully. We are based in Ontario, Canada.

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

I am new to the industry and began breeding American Bullies in 2018. It wasn't something I planned at first. I used to stand firmly behind the 'Adopt don't shop' motto. My views changed when my partner brought home our first pocket bully. His structure and personality was so impressive and I started researching his pedigree. 

Fascinated with learning breed history and bloodlines, I began to recognize the importance of responsible breeding programs. My passion for the bully breed grew, and it is a dream come true to create healthy quality bullies for others.    

What is your favorite bloodline?

Louis V Line is one of my favorites. I admire qualities from many bloodlines. My perfect bully lives in my mind, and the goal is to bring that vision to life in due time. 

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

Honesty and integrity to start. Responsible breeders are knowledgeable on all aspects of breeding and understand the genetics they are working with. They should be educated on the breed standards and be able to recognize their faults/defects while focusing on bettering the breed through their vision. 

Processes should be in place for puppies going to new homes such as screening, contracts and life-long mentorship. I believe responsible breeders will take ownership for their productions, if ever needing to be rehomed, and ensure the well-being of the dogs for their entire life span. 

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

We alternate with premium kibble and a raw diet for their meals. I have them all on daily multivitamins, and often add natural foods and supplements into their meals, that caters specifically to each dog's individual needs. For snacks they love dehydrated beef or uncooked marrow bones.  

How many times a day do you feed your dogs?  

We feed our adult dogs twice a day, breakfast and dinner. When puppies are in the household, feeding time becomes clockwork!

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

We love walking and hiking on the trails. We are always discovering new places together.     

Walk us through the process of purchasing a pup from House of Bully, from start to finish.

I don't like to offer my puppies to the public until they are a few weeks old. It is important to me that I see how they are maturing. Once I get to know their personalities and their unique traits start to come out, I begin to take inquiries. 

We have an application process that helps us get to know potential owners better. This is followed by either a phone call (if in person is not possible) or a meet and greet. I have a lengthy contract in place and like to go through it together so that our agreement is completely understood. A deposit is accepted and I hold my puppies until 9 weeks of age. They come up to date with vaccinations, deworming, a health certificate and guarantee. 

Every new pet owner is sent home with a puppy pack consisting of a personalized custom binder of photos and pedigree, contact info., toys, dog bed, treats and puppy food. My contract requires buyers to provide updates so our connections are forever. 

Does House of Bully currently show any dogs?

Unfortunately, no. I understand the importance of showing and it is my ultimate goal to participate and hopefully produce a future champion.

What advice does House of Bully have for any upcoming breeders?

Do your own research. Get yourself a support team consisting of mentors, support groups, and at least two excellent veterinarians. I have joined some really helpful groups on Facebook. Anywhere from breed fan groups, nutrition, to training tips. 

There are some great people in the bully community that truly care about the breed, and are willing to share their years of experience and knowledge with you. Asking questions is so important. Having good vets available is also crucial for success.

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

There will be setbacks. Many think that it's easy when in reality there is a lot involved in the process. If your goal is to strive for quality and give your dogs the best care, then you need to invest in your program. It takes time and patience, and isn't something one can achieve overnight.  

How do you think they can overcome this thing?

Accept that setbacks happen and learn from it if you can. Patience, hard work and determination will get you to your goal.  

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

I was introduced to Gabrielle Kouture of Kouture Kennels, by another bully breeder, for the use of her stud. I didn't know it then, but this meeting was such a blessing. Gabrielle shared her knowledge and many years of experience, mentoring me throughout my first breeding.

Since getting more involved with the community I've realized how valuable this is, since it can be so competitive out there. She has been very successful in the industry and sets high standards which I strive to achieve in my own program. I have the utmost respect for breeders that have paved the way for us. 

Tell us about one of House of Bully's main goals for the year 2021. 

I am very excited to undertake my first complete House of Bully pairing later in the year. Our stud HOB’s Merlin and HOB’s Kalissta, co-owned with Gurrilla Bullies, are up next. 

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

I would like to see American Bullies better understood by the general population. Two decades of work developing this breed is often overlooked, and it can be challenging having to explain to someone who has never seen the breed, that they are not pitbulls.

The classes can be confusing to some and I believe that tightening these standards up would be helpful. Recognition by the AKC would be beneficial to the breed as well.

What separates House of Bully from the competition?

With all the bully breeders out there, I see a fraction of them doing it for the passion. It's creating something so amazing that can give joy to others. The highlight for me is seeing our productions mature into something special.

I'm not sure if other breeders are quite as concerned about following their productions once they've received a paycheck. However, it goes way beyond that for us and we have a lifetime commitment to any puppy we produce.  

What other hobbies or interests do you take part in? 

Being outside, as long as the Canadian weather allows it! I love cooking, even experimenting with making dog treats. My latest endeavor is learning how to use my new Nikon camera to get better photos.

What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?

I think Bully Girl is a fun and informative source for us bully lovers. Bully Girl keeps me up-to-date, and let's me get to know others in the community. Thanks BGM for this opportunity. It's an honor!