Reaves Bully Empire: XL American Bully Breeder

THE BEGINNING OF AN EMPIRE

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

My name is Dominique Reaves, of Reaves Bully Empire, located in Pittsburgh, PA.

 

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

I breed XL American Bullies, and I’ve always had a love for dogs. Once I started seeing some of the bigger, cleaner XL’s, I knew this was what I wanted to breed.

What is your favorite bloodline?

My favorite bloodlines would have to be Redlines and Bossy.

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

First and foremost, a responsible breeder makes sure they don’t take on more dogs than they can take care for. Responsible breeders do not over breed females, just for money purposes.

 

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

I keep my dogs on a strict diet throughout the year. I don’t like my dogs being too overweight. 

How many times a day do you feed your dogs?

All of our dogs at Reaves Bully Empire get fed twice a day.

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

I keep my dogs in shape by walking them a couple times a day, and also letting them run in the fields. 

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

The process of buying a pup from my kennel starts with a customer choosing from the pups we have available.  We will then share pictures of pups, and their parents. Before they place a deposit, I always go through a series of screening questions, to make sure this person is a right fit for the dog. If that goes well, then they may place a deposit and we can schedule a date for pick up. 

Does Reaves Bully Empire currently show any dogs?

I don’t show any dogs at the moment. However, I’m in the process of training my new puppies to be put in shows.

 

What advice does Reaves Bully Empire have for any upcoming breeders?

Do your research on the dogs, lineage and pedigree you want.  Also, know that just because you buy a dog from a big name kennel, doesn’t mean that you’re going to get instant fame or notoriety. 

 

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

The most difficult thing to overcome in the bully game is being able to accept constructive criticism on your dogs, and your program. 

How do you think they can overcome this thing?

I believe this can be overcome by not becoming kennel blind. Always be open and honest with yourself when it comes to critiquing your dogs or the way you do business. 

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

I look up to Reggie over at Redline, because a good bit of the most known dogs come from some type of breeding he has done.  Next, it would be Danny over at Imperial Bloodline Bullies. I’ve watched Danny build his brand into the name it is today, and he did everything the right way. I really admire the way he cares for and handles his dogs. 

Tell us about one of Reaves Bully Empire main goals for the year 2020.

My main goals for 2020 are to keep creating foundation pieces for my program. In the future I don’t only want to produce nice dogs, but they should be consistent as well. 

 

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

Ten years from now I would love to see a lot more unity amongst breeders.

What separates Reaves Bully Empire from the competition?

I think what will separate my kennel from the competition, is that I don’t just want to sell you a dog. I want to sell you an experience. My customers walk away feeling like family, very confident and comfortable with their purchase.

What other hobbies or interests do you take part in?

I’m into real estate, working out, and learning new things to help build my business and brand. 

What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?

I love Bully Girl Magazine! I’ve always been a fan of what you guys have been doing.