Keep Your Dog Safe in Summer

18/07/2024 By

Summer is the time to have outdoor fun with our dogs. Longer walks in the park, ambitious hikes, beach days, or family travel — the sun is shining, and the outdoors is calling. But hot weather can also make us uncomfortable, and it poses special risks for dogs. From an increased exposure to ticks and other insects, to sunburn, and even heatstroke, all sorts of things can go wrong for your dog in summer. Keep the following safety concerns in mind as the temperature rises, and follow our tips for summer safety for dogs. They will help you keep your pet happier and healthier during the dog days of summer.

Help Your Dog Beat the Heat

  • Give your dog a shady spot to hang out on hot days or keep him inside where there’s air-conditioning. Doghouses are not good shelter in the summer because they can trap heat.
  • Fill a child-size wading pool with fresh water for your dog to cool off in.
  • Never leave your dog in a closed vehicle on a hot day. The temperature inside a car can reach 100 degrees in just 20 minutes.
  • Provide plenty of cool, fresh water.
  • Avoid exercising your dog strenuously on extremely hot days. Take walks in the early mornings or evenings, when the sun’s heat is less intense.
  • Avoid exposing your dog to hot asphalt or sand for any prolonged period; it can burn his paws.
  • Be mindful of your dog’s breed. Dogs that are brachycephalic (have a short head and snout), such as American Bulldogs, Bulldogs, Olde English Bulldogges, Boxers, and French Bulldogs, have an especially hard time in the heat because they do not pant as efficiently as longer-nosed dogs. Keep your brachycephalic dog inside with air-conditioning.
frenchbulldogs_swimming

Keep Your Dog Healthy in Summer

  • Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date, especially since dogs tend to stay outdoors longer and come into contact with other animals more during the summer months.
  • Keep dogs off of lawns that have been chemically treated or fertilized for 24 hours (or according to package instructions), and away from toxic plants and flowers.
  • Keep your dog well brushed, clean, and free of mats.
  • Ask your veterinarian for an effective preventive against fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes that carry heartworm.

Safety Tips for Taking Dogs to the Beach

  • Give your dog a shady spot to rest, like a beach tent or his own outdoor beach pen.
  • Provide plenty of fresh water.
  • Protect him against sunburn. Dogs, especially those with short hair, white fur, and pink skin, can get sunburned. Limit your dog’s exposure during the day and apply sunscreen to his ears, nose, and coat before going outside.
  • Check with a lifeguard for water conditions. Dogs are easy targets for sea lice and jellyfish.
  • Keep a check on his activity. Running on the sand is strenuous exercise. A dog that is out of shape can pull a tendon or ligament, and running on wet sand can make his paw pads blister.
  • Don’t let your dog drink seawater; the salt will make him sick.
  • Rinse him off at the end of the day. Salt and other minerals in ocean water can damage your dog’s coat.
  • Check local ordinances before heading out. Not all beaches allow dogs, and some restrict the time they can be there.

Keep Your Dog Safe in the Water

  • Let your dog go for a swim. Some dogs are natural swimmers; others won’t get a toe wet. Never force your dog into the water. Follow these water safety tips and be mindful of your dog’s preferences and skills before sending him out to ride the waves.
  • Don’t let your dog overdo it; swimming is hard work, and he may tire quickly. When swimming in the ocean, be careful of strong tides.
  • Never leave your dog unattended in water.
  • Put your dog in a life vest.

Traveling in Summer With Your Dog

By Air

  • Be aware that many Airlines will not ship animals during summer months due to dangers caused by hot weather. Some will only allow dogs to fly in the early morning or in the evening. Check with the airlines for specific rules.
  • Put ice packs wrapped in a towel or an ice blanket in the dog’s crate if you do ship a dog. Two-liter soft drink bottles filled with water and then frozen work well.
  • Provide a container of fresh water, as well as a container of frozen water that will thaw over the course of the trip.

BY CAR

  • Keep your dog cool in the car by putting ice packs wrapped in a towel in his crate. Make sure the crate is well ventilated. 
  • Use a cooling pad as his bed or crate liner.
  • Put a sunshade on your car windows.
  • Bring along fresh water and a bowl, and a tarp or tent, so you can set up a shady spot when you stop. Keep a spray bottle filled with water to spritz on your dog to cool him down.

BY CARAVAN

  • Never leave a Caravan or motor home completely closed up, even if the generator and air-conditioning are running. Crack a window or door or run the exhaust fan.
  • Even though there’s lots of space to walk around when you’re moving your dog should be attached to a dog-safe seat belt or ride in a secured crate. If you have to make a sudden stop, he’ll be protected.
  • Check out the location of the nearest veterinary office, if you plan to stay in one place for any length of time. You should also plan ahead and verify that campgrounds are pet-friendly.
americanbullyswimming

Be Alert to Dehydration and Heatstroke

DEHYDRATION

Dogs can become dehydrated when more fluids leave the body than it takes in. They lose fluids through panting, urinating, and even from evaporation through their paws. If you see any of the following symptoms, the dog needs rehydration and replacement of electrolytes right away:

  • Panting.
  • Dry gums and nose.
  • Thick saliva.
  • Lethargy.
  • Sunken eyes.
  • Loss of elasticity in the skin.

Just giving your dog a bowl of water may not be enough; electrolytes may need to be replaced, as well. Use electrolyte-enhanced water, or an electrolyte solution. Check with your veterinarian for dosage recommendations. You may also need to go to an emergency vet who can administer intravenous fluids.

HEATSTROKE

Heatstroke can be the serious and often fatal result of a dog’s prolonged exposure to excessive heat. Heatstroke usually occurs when high ambient temperature overcomes the dog’s ability to dissipate heat. The degree of damage is determined by how high a temperature is reached and how long the animal is exposed. Below are the signs of heatstroke and the actions you should take if your dog is overcome.

EARLY STAGES OF HEATSTROKE

  • Heavy panting.
  • Rapid breathing.
  • Excessive drooling.
  • Bright red gums and tongue.
  • Difficulty maintaining balance.

ADVANCED STAGES OF HEATSTROKE

  • White or blue gums.
  • Lethargy, unwillingness to move.
  • Uncontrollable urination or defecation.
  • Labored, noisy breathing.
  • Shock.

If your dog begins to exhibit signs of heatstroke, you should try immediately to cool him down. Cooling methods include getting him into the shade, spraying him with cool or tepid water, and fanning him. Severely affected dogs require fluids, medication, support, and oxygen.

Check your dog’s temperature regularly during this process. Once it’s stabilized at between 37 – 38 degrees celsius, you can stop the cool-down process. If you can’t get the dog cooled down, and you begin to see signs of advanced heatstroke, take the dog to a veterinarian immediately.

The best treatment for heatstroke is prevention. Limit the time your dog works or exercises in hot weather. Choose cooler periods of the day for training and exercise sessions. Provide plenty of cool, fresh water, shade, and frequent rest periods when it’s hot.

Nothing beats canine companionship on vacations, in the great outdoors, and on the beach. As a responsible dog owner, you can ensure that your vacation with your best friend will be enjoyable for both of you.

For questions or more advice on the subject E-mail us at [email protected]

Filed Under: Articles, Expert Advice, Health Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

    EBKC DNA PROFILING PROGRAM

    01/03/2021 By

    The EBKC DNA Profiling Program brings cutting-edge parentage testing technology to EBKC customers. A cheek swab brush is used to collect the DNA sample from the dog, and returned to the EBKC. The sample is processed by EBKC’s DNA Partner Laboratories, and the resulting genotype is entered into the EBKC DNA Database. The information is used to verify parentage of EBKC dogs and for genetic identity purposes. EBKC DNA does not determine the breed of a dog or if a dog is a purebred. This technology allows breeders, dog owners, and the EBKC to ensure accuracy of the EBKC registry archives.

    DNA Profiling is required for stud dogs whose semen is collected for fresh-extended or frozen use. EBKC DNA Profiling is also required for Frequently Used Sires, effective for litters whelped on or after July 1, 2020, and for imported breeding stock registered on or after March 1, 2006. If unknown parentage is indicated via DNA testing, the status of the registration will be downgraded to “conditional” until a three-generation pedigree is established.

    The dog owner will receive an EBKC letter of DNA Analysis including the DNA profile for each dog sampled. Additionally, for dogs individually registered at the time the DNA sample is received by the EBKC, the DNA Profile Number and this will be indicated on dog’s registration record, and will appear on all Registration Certificates and Pedigrees issued in the future.

    DNA Profiling may be used to determine the correct sire of a litter before registering that litter, such as in cases where the dam was exposed to more than one male during her season. Additionally, the EBKC can register litters with more than one sire.

    Order Your DNA Profile & DNA Swab Sample Kit here

    Filed Under: Articles, News

    Ed Sheperd, Founder of Gottyline & Daxline Passes Away

    29/06/2019 By

    Mr. Ed Sheperd, founder of Gottyline & Daxline has died. He who owned the world famous dogs such as ’21 Blackjack’ and produced many great American Bullies such as the legendary ‘DAX’. The EBKC would like to express its sincere condolences to the Sheperd Family. Ed Sheperd’s contribution to the American Bully Breed will live on forever.

    THE HISTORY OF GOTTYLINE, DAXLINE & ED SHEPERD

    Ed started at a time where American Pit Bulls for the most part, were tall, thin, and followed the APBT breed standard. When Ed first started breeding, he did some research on the internet and purchased a couple of pit bulls. He soon realized that both he and his kids loved the temperament of these dogs and it was the breed of their choice from that day forward.

    HOW GOTTILINE STARTED

    The Gottiline Pit bull Bloodline, otherwise known as the Gotti Pitbulls, Gottyline or Gotty Pitbulls have become one of the most popular bloodlines in American Bully Community. This bloodline was started by Richard Barajas of West Side Kennels. He actually owned the first sire, The Notorious Juan Gotty.

    Back in 1997, he bought Gotty for an amount of $1,300, from Tony Moore. Richard probably didn’t know at the time what a great buy Juan Gotty was. Tony owned Grey Line Kennels in Los Angeles.

    NOTORIOUS JUAN GOTTY OF WEST SIDE KENNELS

    Tony Moore of Greyline pit bulls produced Notorious Juan Gotty, a dog who later would be the credited for the Gottiline bloodline. Tony sold Gotty to Richard Barajas when he was still a puppy. Gotty was a 100% Greyline dog. The dogs Tony produced were known for their drive and gameness, far from the American Bullies that you see today. Gary Moore of Blue Star Kennels refers to dogs without a drive as “Kibble Munchers” and wants nothing to do with a lazy dog without drive.

    Gary’s ideal dog would be able to climb trees, take down criminals. This was a temperament that Ed Shepherd was not interested in. This extreme drive or “gameness” is not found in today’s American Bullies and was is known to exist find in lines like Greyline, amongst a few others considered “old school bloodlines.”

    Some die hard game American Pit Bull Terrier fans would argue that dogs like Gotty were dogs in the early stages of the transformation of the American Bully breed and that these dogs were not true APBT lines (think Colby, Jeep, Old Family Red Nose etc.) But that is a controversial topic and an entire article in itself.

    Whichever side of the argument you’re on, many of the old school bloodlines and the majority of the 100% greyline dogs still carried the original APBT temperament and drive. New Troijan Kennels in Los Angeles for example has 100% greyline dogs. Their dogs for the most part are known to have extremely high energy levels and drive, and are able to preform well in sports such as weight pulling, and protection training.

    Richard Barajas was breeding Juan Gotty at the time. His kennel name was West Side Kennels. So Ed decided to come up with an idea for creating a name for his yard. The name Ed decided on was Gottyline.

    HOW ED SHEPHERD CREATED DAXLINE

    Richard was a friend of Eds and at the time, and although he didn’t really like the idea Ed using the name “Gottyline”, he didn’t make a big deal of it and began to use the name as well. Ed chose to spell Gottyline as it reads on Juan Gotty’s papers with the letter “Y”. Richard however, began using the name but spelling it with an “I” and using “Gottiline.” This is the reason you will see this bloodline spelled both ways from time to time.

    THE ACQUISITION OF 21 BLACKJACK

    Ed had purchased Blackjack at the time Cruz was first getting into the Razors Edge bloodline. At the time, Cruz wasn’t as interested in Blackjack, because Blackjack wasn’t a Razors Edge dog. At the time, there was no Gottiline. Things really started to take off for Ed after purchasing 21 Blackjack from Cruz of Bow Wow Pits.

    Cruz is perhaps most well known for his Stud Blow, a Monster G son. Cruz went on to be successful in his own right, creating a clothing line based off of Blow. The clothing line was simply known as Blow Genes.

    Ed started to show 21 Blackjack and soon champed him out. From the popularity of 21 Blackjack, Ed started to build his Kennel. After years of line breeding and inbreeding, he created a solid recognizable look and had a yard full of amazing bullies.

    Around 2008, Ed bred West Coast Gottyline’s Romeo to his female Barbee. This is how he produced the now world famous Gottyline’s Dax. After Dax began to mature, Ed realized that he had produced a truly remarkable stud dog, that at the time, was his best production to date. He then renamed his kennel and bloodline Daxline.

    Dax was considered an extreme Bully. He had a very easy going temperament and was completely non-aggressive. Ed has no interest in breeding dogs with aggression, high energy or poor temperament. Dax finished his Show Career as an ABKC Grand Champion in the Extreme Class, but it was not without controversy.

    Dax stood around 15 inches at the withers, weighed 75 pounds, and had a 24 inch head. He was Ed’s only house dog at the time. Ed simply states that he is loved part of the family and is also too valuable to leave outside.

    DAX PRODUCTIONS

    Dax is known as the best producing bully in the history of the American Bully movement. There is some debate as to whether Dax was an F1, F2 or F2 bulldog, but what isn’t up for debate is whether Dax could produce.

    Dax Sired Ch Lucky Luciano, Louis V, Ch Magoo, Cashpot, Dual GrCh G-Train, Spartacus, Phenom, Boss, Kill Bill, Heat Stroke, Lil Sitch, Status, Havoc, Goku, Uso, Wyatt Earp among many others.

    Filed Under: Articles, News

    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

    Q&A with Judge Al Rivera

    12/09/2017 By

    How Long have you been breeding dogs?

    I’ve been involved with dogs as long as I could remember. I started out with ADBA pitbulls and later on got into bulldogs. I started showing bulldogs in Akc for some time. I went on to produce my first champion named ” Romeo”. He went on to become a Multi B.I.S winner in South American. After losing his mother, I moved away from dogs for a year or so.

    How did you get involved with the American Bully?

    After having dogs my entire life, I knew I needed to get back into dogs and soon. This was around the time the American bully started to pop up everywhere. Once I saw them I was hooked. I got into bullies a little over ten years ago and started hitting ever show within 20 hrs of New York. The show scene wasn’t really big in the beginning, but seemed to grow overnight. Handling was everything to me. I went on to handle and finish dozens of dogs. Some of the more notable dogs in our breed such as CH.Bullmaster, CH.Wolverine, GR.CH.Hawk, CH.Sideshow, GR.CH. German Ruger and CH.Spaniard. Although I didn’t breed much, I went on to produce, co-produce, handle & finish CH. Spaniard, CH. Isn’t that a Daisy, CH. Ruckus & GR.CH Obi One Kenobi who completed his championship in 1 event and went on to win Multi BIS with very minimal showing.

     

    When did you start judging?

    In 2012 I became a judge for the Abkc. This really slowed me down as far as showing and breeding was concerned, but it was something I felt I had to do for our breed at the time. I went on to judge dozens of show up and down the east coast, mid west and west coast. I’ve judged upwards of around 200+ dogs in a single show and breeds such as the American Bully, American Pit bull terrier, American Bulldog, Olde, Shorty Bull and Cane Corso. I went on to judge the first ever Euro Nationals in Spain and a show in Argentina. In 2016 I became a judge for both the EBKC & BBCR. I judged the Euro Championships in Rome for the EBKC and judged the 1st BBCR National Specialty as well as shows in Lima, Peru and Florida for the BCCR. My experience has brought me cross the world looking at various bullies breeds and meeting other people that share the same passion. I hope to continue to help mentor and move our community in the right direction.

    Can you tell us about about your life outside dogs?

    Outside of dogs I work with autistic children for a living, which has been a huge part of my life. Some of the children I work with have changed me in so many ways and changed how I view life. I’ve also been training MMA fighters & Boxers for the last 8 yrs or so. This has been a passion of mine since I can remember. I’m also married to the most incredible woman I’ve ever met & we’ve been together for over 12 years now. She’s not the biggest fan of my crazy bully life, but she deals with it and always pushes me to do better. As crazy as my life may be at times, I wouldn’t change it for the world!
    Filed Under: Articles

    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!

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