EBKC RETURNS TO ITALY ON 15 DECEMBER

09/11/2024 By

Catania, Sicily, Italy – The European Bully Kennel Club (EBKC) is thrilled to announce the EBKC SHOW ITALY 2024, to be held on Sunday 15th December 2024 at the prestigious Pala Zurria in Catania, Sicily. This premier event promises an unforgettable day dedicated to celebrating bull breeds and molosser-type dogs, showcasing the best in breed standards, sportsmanship, and camaraderie among dog lovers.

The show will feature an exciting lineup of breeds, including American Bully, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, American Bulldog, Boxer, South African Boerboel, Boston Terrier, Bulldog, Bull Terrier, Bullmastiff, Cane Corso, Dobermann, Dogo Argentino, Dogue De Bordeaux, French Bulldog, Great Dane, Olde English Bulldogge, Presa Canario, Mastiff, Miniature Bull Terrier, Neapolitan Mastiff, Shorty Bull, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

Two distinguished international judges will officiate the event: Dennie De Meijer from the Netherlands and Emanuele Venieri from Italy. Their expertise and commitment to breed standards bring an exceptional level of credibility and excitement to the competition.


ABOUT THE JUDGES

DENNIE DE MEIJER (NETHERLANDS)

Dennie De Meijer of Showline Bullies is a respected figure in the European Bully Kennel Club (EBKC) community. As one of the first EBKC judges since the club’s inception, Dennie has been instrumental in setting high standards for breed judging and promoting the American Bully. He was one of the key figures who introduced the breed to the Netherlands, helping establish its popularity and credibility within Europe.

After years of dedicated involvement, Dennie took a break from the show scene to focus on raising his two children, returning with renewed dedication and insight. His blend of experience and genuine commitment to the EBKC and the American Bully breed makes him a valuable team player within the community.

The EBKC SHOW ITALY 2024 promises a thrilling atmosphere with passionate breeders, handlers, and spectators across Europe. Attendees can expect a day filled with exciting competitions, breed showcases, and an unparalleled opportunity to learn about these magnificent breeds.

EMANUELE VENIERI (ITALY)

Emanuele “Lele” Venieri was born in Ravenna, Italy, into a family with a rich tradition of breeding and showing St. Bernards. As a young man, he competed as a junior handler, where he honed his skills in the ring and deepened his understanding of canine conformation. As his career progressed, he began to show and breed Akitas alongside his longtime mentor.

In 1995, Emanuele transitioned to professional handling, working with all breeds recognized by the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale). During this pivotal period, he discovered his passion for the American Staffordshire Terrier, which would become his favorite breed. Over the years, Emanuele has expertly handled more than 100 different dog breeds, earning a reputation for excellence in the field.

To this day, Emanuele continues to show and breed American Staffordshire Terriers and has significantly influenced American Bully breeders across Italy and Europe under the name “Smoking Guns Kennels.” He has bred, owned, and handled numerous Multi-Registry American Bully Champions, showcasing his dedication and expertise.

ABOUT THE SHOW VENUE

The PalaZurria in Catania, Sicily, is a distinctive sports and event venue with a unique past. Originally built as an abattoir, this industrial facility once served the city in a very different capacity. In a creative act of urban transformation, the former slaughterhouse was repurposed to become a multi-purpose arena, reflecting Catania’s dedication to preserving historical structures while adapting them to modern community needs.

Since its conversion, PalaZurria has grown into an essential venue for various events, from local and regional sports tournaments to cultural showcases and international gatherings. This transformation from a utilitarian building into a cultural hub demonstrates Catania’s commitment to blending tradition with innovation, and today, PalaZurria hosts everything from basketball games and martial arts competitions to concerts and dog shows.

The venue stands as a testament to Catania’s resilience and adaptability, embodying the city’s ability to reinvent its architectural heritage for future generations. As PalaZurria continues to serve as a focal point for diverse events, it remains a powerful symbol of Catania’s vibrant community spirit and historical continuity.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

BAN IGNORANCE

17/04/2024 By

BACKYARD BREEDING STRAY DOGS AND MIXED BREEDS NEEDS
TO BE PROHIBITED. NOT BULLY BREEDS!

The practice of backyard breeding among stray dogs and mixed breeds must be stopped. The focus should not be on bully breeds. Some individuals posing as animal rescuers are urging for a ban on importing and breeding bully breeds. However, this fails to address the root issue of backyard breeding and the widespread mixing of breeds. When nearly all the dogs in animal sanctuaries are mixed breeds, it’s unfair to solely blame purebred dogs. Why? Because the tactic is to discourage people from buying or owning purebred dogs and instead push them towards adopting stray mixed breed dogs. This tactic is akin to communism. It’s time to end the blame game and enact a complete ban on the mixed breeding of stray dogs.

Enforcing a temporary ban on importing and breeding bully breeds does little to address the root problems of backyard breeding and the proliferation of mixed breed stray dogs. Here’s why:

1. Misplaced Focus: By targeting bully breeds, authorities are misdirecting efforts away from the real issue of irresponsible breeding practices. Backyard breeders will simply shift their focus to other breeds or continue breeding mixed breeds, undermining the effectiveness of the ban.

2. Failure to Address Demand: Temporary bans fail to address the underlying demand for dogs, regardless of breed. As long as there’s a market for pets, backyard breeders will exploit this demand by producing mixed-breed puppies, circumventing the ban entirely.

3. Lack of Long-Term Solution: Temporary bans provide a short-term fix but do not offer a sustainable solution to the problem. Without comprehensive regulations and enforcement measures targeting all breeds, including mixed breeds, the issue of backyard breeding will persist beyond the duration of the ban.

4. Potential for Unintended Consequences: Banning specific breeds may lead to unintended consequences such as increased stigmatization of certain dog breeds and the displacement of responsible owners of bully breeds. This could exacerbate issues related to breed discrimination and unfairly penalize responsible dog owners.

5. Need for Comprehensive Legislation: Effective measures to address backyard breeding require comprehensive legislation that targets irresponsible breeding practices across all breeds. This includes implementing mandatory spaying and neutering programs, promoting responsible pet ownership, and enforcing strict breeding regulations applicable to all dog breeds, not just bully breeds.

6. Underlying Agenda of Choice Limitation: The proposed prohibition of importing and breeding bully breeds is not solely about curbing irresponsible breeding practices; it’s a tactic aimed at limiting people’s freedom of choice in dog ownership. By restricting access to purebred bully breeds, proponents of the ban seek to coerce individuals into adopting stray mixed bully breeds instead. This tactic mirrors a communist-style approach, where the government dictates what choices citizens are allowed to make, infringing upon personal freedoms and preferences in pet ownership.

By highlighting this underlying agenda, it becomes clear that the proposed ban is not a comprehensive solution to the issue of backyard breeding and mixed breed proliferation. Instead, it serves to manipulate consumer choices and impose a singular option, which undermines individual autonomy and fails to address the root causes of the problem.

7. Negative Impact on Beloved Companion Breeds: It’s important to recognize that the proposed ban on importing and breeding bully breeds extends beyond targeting a single breed. Instead, it encompasses a diverse group of beloved companion breeds that fall under the bully breed category. These breeds include the American Bulldog, Boxer, Bull Mastiff, American Staffordshire Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Bully, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier, Miniature Bull Terrier, Boston Terrier, Bulldog, French Bulldog, and Old English Bulldogge.

    By acknowledging the number of pure breeds affected by the proposed ban, it becomes evident that the repercussions extend far beyond a singular breed. Such a blanket prohibition not only restricts access to specific breeds but also impacts the cultural and historical significance of these breeds to dog enthusiasts worldwide. It’s imperative to consider the diverse characteristics and roles these breeds play within communities and ensure that any proposed regulations are fair and proportionate to the concerns at hand.

    In summary, while temporary bans on importing and breeding bully breeds may seem like a quick solution, they ultimately fail to tackle the root causes of backyard breeding and mixed breed proliferation. A more holistic approach addressing all breeds and irresponsible breeding practices is necessary to effectively curb these issues in the long term.

    Filed Under: Articles, Expert Advice, News, Official Statements, Press Statement, Uncategorized

    MRS. SIMONA POLI APPOINTED INTERNATIONAL EBKC REP FOR ITALY

    22/01/2024 By

    Mrs. Simona Poli, a distinguished breeder with a legacy spanning over three decades, embarked on her journey in Chow-Chow breeding, earning recognition from the Italian Kennel Club (ENCI) for her established kennel. In collaboration with her husband, Guido, Simona undertook firsthand explorations of Chow-Chow breeding practices in Canada, Germany, and the Netherlands, ultimately establishing her own breeding program.

    Their dedication and meticulous breeding practices resulted in the attainment of International Champions, Italian Champions, and promising young talents. Notably, their accomplishments extended to securing a Vice World Champion title in Vienna and a European Champion accolade in Verona in 1993. The fruits of their labor have been featured prominently in Chow-Chow publications, showcasing their commitment to breed excellence.

    Despite achieving significant milestones, Simona, due to maternal obligations, reluctantly stepped away from active involvement. However, her compatriot, entrusted with continuing the legacy, has since maintained the breeding program with remarkable success.

    Yearning for new horizons, as their son pursued his own path, Simona and her husband delved into the realm of the American Bully. Motivated by their son’s affinity for the Bull Terrier, they extensively researched and studied the breed, undertaking journeys to America and Spain to witness firsthand the American Bully standards. With a clear vision, they carefully selected partners for their new breeding endeavor.

    Driven by passion and profound love for the American Bully breed, Simona and her husband meticulously plan limited, targeted litters, ensuring no more than two per year. Their dedication extends beyond their kennel, Being involved with various international organisations promoting the bull breeds worldwide. The EBKC welcomes Simona to the EBKC Family, as a valued member and International representative for Italy.

    IT: La Signora Simona Poli, una rinomata allevatrice con un’eredità che si estende per oltre tre decenni, ha intrapreso il suo percorso nell’allevamento di Chow-Chow, guadagnando riconoscimenti dall’Ente Nazionale della Cinofilia Italiana (ENCI) per il suo allevamento consolidato. In collaborazione con suo marito, Guido, Simona ha condotto esplorazioni dirette sulle pratiche di allevamento di Chow-Chow in Canada, Germania e nei Paesi Bassi, stabilendo infine il suo programma di allevamento.

    La loro dedizione e le meticolose pratiche di allevamento hanno portato al conseguimento di Campioni Internazionali, Campioni Italiani e promettenti giovani talenti. In particolare, i loro successi si sono estesi al conseguimento del titolo di Vice Campione del Mondo a Vienna e al riconoscimento di Campione Europeo a Verona nel 1993. I frutti del loro lavoro sono stati ampiamente presentati nelle pubblicazioni dedicate al Chow-Chow, evidenziando il loro impegno per l’eccellenza della razza.

    Nonostante il raggiungimento di significativi traguardi, Simona, a causa di impegni materni, ha riluttantemente abbandonato l’attiva partecipazione. Tuttavia, il suo compatriota, incaricato di continuare il lascito, ha successivamente mantenuto il programma di allevamento con notevole successo.

    Desiderando nuovi orizzonti, mentre il loro figlio percorreva la propria strada, Simona e suo marito si sono immerse nel mondo dell’American Bully. Mossi dall’affinità del figlio per il Bull Terrier, hanno condotto ricerche approfondite e studiato la razza, intraprendendo viaggi in America e in Spagna per osservare direttamente gli standard dell’American Bully. Con una chiara visione, hanno selezionato con cura i partner per la loro nuova impresa di allevamento.

    Guidati dalla passione e dall’amore profondo per la razza American Bully, Simona e suo marito pianificano meticolosamente cucciolate limitate e mirate, assicurandosi di non superare le due cucciolate annue. La loro dedizione si estende oltre il loro allevamento, poiché sono attivamente coinvolti in diverse organizzazioni internazionali che promuovono le razze taurine in tutto il mondo. L’EBKC dà il benvenuto a Simona nella famiglia EBKC, come rappresentante internazionale per l’Italia.

    Simona Poli
    Phone: (+39) 333 265 5831
    E-mail: [email protected]

    Filed Under: Articles, Official Statements, Press Statement

    The EBKC recognised by the Danish Authorities

    15/06/2019 By

    A Victory for the American Bully Breed in Denmark & the EBKC,

    The European Bully Kennel Club Certifications recognised by the Danish Government. Together with Danish Club members and Club Officials, the EBKC has achieved legal recognition by Danish Authorities in regards to acceptance of the American Bully as a breed, by recognising the European Bully Kennel Club’s Certified Documents.

    In recent months, American Bully owners in Denmark have pushed for breed acceptance and recognition. One of the main issues was primarily that legal documents that are recognised must come from an organisation that in a European Union Member State. The European Bully Kennel Club’s Head Offices are in Malta and is recognised by the Maltese Government as a registered Organisation.

    Quoting a response sent to one of our Club Members by the Danish Police Legal Department:

    ‘National Police hereby return to your inquiry regarding the purchase of a dog of breed American Bully.

    National Police should first state that it is clear of dogs Act 1 a paragraph A. 1 and 2 that a number of dog breeds, including hybrids, which breeds included, is prohibited in Denmark. The National Police estimates that there is an illegal crossing if a dog is a mixture of one or more of the dogs contained herein banned list unless that crossing instead can be considered a breed of dogs Act.

    An examination of the information European Bully Kennel Club (EBKC) have presented on their website stated breed standards, which apparently aims to separate the population members from other dogs. It follows from EBKC’s website that an American Bully bred by principles that seem comparable with FCI.

    It is based on the above, the National Police believes that American Bully can be considered a breed of dogs Act and that this race is not apparent from the prohibition list in Dogs Act 1A, so that the – where the breed is sufficiently documented – must be regarded as legitimate.

    However, it is crucial that you as a dog owner makes sure to acquire an original pedigree from this recognized federation, where the breed is bred for principles that are comparable with FCI principles, and that the album also does not show that blended dogs other (illegal) races. Thus, the National Police considers it as a dog owner will not be enough just to say that you have a dog of breed American Bully, but that such a dog requires documentation in the form of an EBKC Certified Pedigree Certificate, as the dog or else risk being seen as an illegal crossing based on its appearance.

    The National Police shall eventually notice that it is always the individual police that in the first instance assess whether, as a dog owner has provided sufficient evidence that your dog belonging to a particular non-illegal race. National Police cannot say something in general that an American Bully in all cases will be “acquitted” because it depends on what you as a dog owner can provide documentation of the dog’s breed. However, National Police believes that Certified pedigree from a The European Bully Kennel Club (EBKC) should weigh heavily in such an assessment – even if, as far as one American Bully, is a race that is not recognized by FCI. 

    Filed Under: Articles, News

    EBKC launches the Best Stud Dog & Best Brood Bitch Show Classes

    06/11/2017 By
    The Executive Committee of EBKC Judges has proudly announced the introduction of the Best Stud Dog and Best Brood Bitch Show Classes.
    – Classes shall be divided by breed and judged separately by sex.
    – These classes shall be judged on the quality of the Offspring and not the individual stud dogs and brood bitches.
    -Stud dogs and brood bitches must be permanently registered with EBKC as of the day of the show to be eligible for this class.
    – Offspring may compete if they are permanently registered with EBKC or are out of EBKC Registered litters.
    – Spayed bitches and neutered dogs are eligible to compete in these classes but not as Offspring. – The Judge shall give up to 2 placements, where possible, in these classes.

    – Only the exhibitors of the stud dogs and brood bitches are required to wear armbands in these classes.

    a. Stud Dog. Each entry in this class shall consist of a stud dog and at least two but not more than four dogs sired by that dog. The progeny must be at least three months of age and may include both sexes. At least two of the progeny must be entered in the Conformation Show. Stud dogs entered in this class may not be counted as Offspring for their sires in the same class. Entries shall be made in the name of the stud dog.
    b. Brood Bitch. Each entry in this class shall consist of a brood bitch and at least two but not more than four dogs produced by that bitch. The offspring must be at least three months of age and may include both sexes. At least two of the offspring must be entered in the licensed classes. Brood bitches entered in this class may not be counted as offspring for their dams in the same class. Entries shall be made in the name of the brood bitch.
    These new classes will be launched for the first time at the EBKC Internationals 2017 Dog Show on Sunday 19th November 2017, in Eindhoven, the Netherlands.

    To preregister for these prestigious Show Classes email: [email protected]
    Filed Under: Articles, News

    A Insight of the American Bully by the Honourable Judge Ron Ramos

    04/09/2017 By
    Hello Ron, thank you for taking the time out of your schedule to give us this interview. It is an honour to get information from an International Senior Judge

    SO LET’S START BY GIVING THE READERS A LITTLE BIT OF INFORMATION ABOUT MR.RON RAMOS, AND WHAT IS YOUR HISTORY WITH DOGS IN GENERAL?

    I’ve pretty much have had dogs my entire life living out in the country. As a boy my pops had a love for dogs as well so we had pedigreed dogs of all breeds from Poodles, Rottweilers, Chihuahuas and many others. I got my first registered pitbull in 1983 and started showing in 1997 and never looked back. I have showed in the AKC, UKC and the ABKC. I have shown in many prestigious shows in the AKC and UKC Nationals a few times and placing in the ribbons just about every time. I came on board to the ABKC in about 2004-2016 took on the duty of director of Judges for the ABKC and pretty much built the foundation of the documents from the judges code of ethics to the judges test with the help of a few others. I have been blessed with the bully community to have travel the world and they have welcomed me with open arms around the globe. To this day I have been blessed to be sought out to judge across the world with many groceries and many clubs. To say the least the bully community has truly been a blessing! Ron “Papa Pit” Ramos can not thank the people around the world enough.


    It’s safe to say you that you have some serious dog knowledge.
    How long have you been judging dogs?

    Sorry I got ahead of myself. I started judging in 2004 so 11 years and counting.


    So why did you gravitate towards the American Bully out of all breeds?

    I have always loved the pitbull out of all the breeds I have owned. But, I have always loved the heavier dogs before they were called bullies. Even before my first registered UKC pitbull I had an old Crenshaw that was built exactly like a pocket bully that had to be in the late 70s, and loved that dog.

     

    Sounds like you were ahead of your time. Well what is your ideal bully or favorite standard and why?

    Being that I have had Game Dogs, Pitbulls, Amstaffs and American Bullies in both the standard and pocket varieties, I have developed an appreciation on more of what they were bred for so I can’t take away from any of them. This is where many people fall short and hate on one another because of the lack of understanding the “why” of the breed. I can look at a beautiful game dog and love it as much as a standard bully if they are bred correctly.

    WITH THAT BEING SAID AS A JUDGE WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN AN AMERICAN BULLY?

    No matter what the breed type of an American Bully I like a balanced look. I like everything in correct proportions with confidence and power when it moves.

    Ok, so when it comes to your program what is your goal or vision?

    As a breeder I don’t ever think I will be totally satisfied especially as a show breeder. We are constantly looking to breed the Golden Bully a.k.a.The Ultimate Bully! Don’t get me wrong I have some very nice dogs, but I don’t think I have my Golden Bully just yet.

    So who do you believe is your best production to date in your program?

    I love my dogs and I could give you a list LOL, Ramos’ Porky was one of my first home grown bullies and I will always put him at the top. Then there is Ramos’ Terminus Q and the peoples favorite Ramos’ Too Thick Nick who is a must see in person pocket bully. When people see Nick it’s a done deal, and they melt the imagine of Pooh Bear in a bully LOL. Right at the top has to be Ramos’ Perfecta Perfina. She is an incredible girl who could pass for a male. In fact, people look to her underside when I say she’s a female to make sure LOL.

    AFTER SEEING SOME PHOTOS OF YOUR BULLIES THERE IS NO DOUBT THAT YOU HAVE AN AMAZING PROGRAM. SO IN YOUR OPINION WHO DO YOU THINK IS THE BEST AMERICAN BULLY OUT THERE NOW?

    You know I have been asked this many times and to name a handful of dogs is an injustice to the many I have not seen in person. Besides, everyone believes they have the best dogs in their backyard.

    I guess it’s similar to looking at our own children as we all think they are perfect lol. What do you think about the state of the Bully Community now, is it growing stronger and in the right direction?

    I don’t think it’s even fair for a judge to even determine which dog because every dog has their high points and short comings. Many people talk about certain dogs being great and they use their offspring as a gauge, but that is a poor measuring stick. It should be based on the ratio of productions to quality of offspring.
    For Example: If a dog is deemed as a great Bully and has produced 1,000 puppies but only has 50 great offspring versus a bully that has produced 100 puppies, and has 25 great offspring which is the better producer hmmm? So when you hear some of the dogs being mentioned as great dogs, and look at their offspring you should also take a second look to see the numbers. Sorry if that wasn’t the answer people were looking for, but this is my honest opinion.


    Well being honest is always the best advice even if it’s not what someone wants to hear. So before someone decides to own an American Bully what would be your top 3 to 5 tips that you would give them that are very important?

    1. Don’t be in such a rush, your money honestly won’t burn a hole in your pocket.

    2. Don’t buy the first fat cute little puppy you see.

    3. Do your homework, and I don’t mean just looking at pedigrees. Understand what your looking at, and develop an eye for what a pup will finish as an adult. Look at the both the sire and dam, then look at their parents. Many times people get blinded by what is in front of them, and never get past that. The more litters you look at the better you will develop an eye for what you’re truly seeing.

    4. Price doesn’t make it better or who the breeder is! A 10,000 dollar puppy that is a wreck is still a wreck at 100 dollars. Price and big name breeders are mostly hype now, but don’t get me wrong not all of them. I am sure there are many big name breeders that are 100.

    5. Do it for the love of the breed and not for the fantasy of making big money. There is maybe a handful of guys that have made big money in the dog world. Make sure you hook up with an ethical breeder that will help, and mentor you. Do not just deal with a breeder who will take your money and disappear. Great breeders will be there to answer questions and teach you the ropes.

    That’s all great advice Ron. As the breed gains more popularity where do you see the American Bully 10 years from now?

    I wish I could answer that with an objective answer but this is determined by the trend of the people, and the almighty dollar. God willing people will look to the quality of the breed, and not the next trend or look. I have seen this in many breeds of dogs, not just the in the bully breed. This is an awesome animal with great potential.
    We need to give the respect it deserves, and reciprocate the love it gives to use in return. Don’t let the breed down, and do your part. God willing in ten years it will be bigger and better then ever. If I’m still around in ten years I hope to see an amazing bully community with awesome bullies, and me being rolled out in my wheelchair as a special guest LOL.

    Well we appreciate your time again Ron. Is there anyone you would like to shout out or any websites or social media sites you would like to plug?

    All my gratitude and thanks goes to the bully lovers around the world. If it wasn’t for them none of this would never be possible. I came to this community to mentor and grow it to the next level, and hope I did that. I take my hat off to the bully world and bow with a humble, and inadequate THANK YOU. Last but not least, a thank you to my true close friends, my wife and kids for always supporting my obsession to mentor and teach about the breed I love. Thank you again Ron. From this interview alone we have learned so much about the breed and again it is such a HUGE Honor to have you come on board and share your knowledge!

    Filed Under: Articles
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