Today we’d like to introduce you to Grant Rodriguez.
Hi Grant, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started Rockstarr Kennel over 13 years ago. I was walking my dog, a boxer, in the dog park. As I was walking I saw this guy walking his dog, I wasn’t aware that it was Cane Corso at the time. I was curious and wanted more information about the dog so I asked him what breed the dog was, he went on to say “It’s an Italian Mastiff, also known as Cane Corso.” I went home that day and did my own research because I was fascinated by how the dog behaved and looked. I researched a lot and decided I wanted to get a Cane Corso for myself so I bought my first male Cane Corso from Italy. When I got my first puppy I became more fascinated about the breed. I loved how big he was getting, his obedience and loyalty and his overall temperament. From then on, I was hooked and began to love Corsos. I decided I wanted to start my own Breeding Program, so I bought a male Corso, Simba and a female, Gemma. Simba and Gemma mated and had their first litter, they had 7 puppies, 4 females and 3 males. This was my first litter, so I was still learning about the breed itself. I wanted to find ways to grow, I had to find ways to improve their build, temperament, structure and their looks. I had a lot of questions so I reached out to many breeders from Europe because I loved how the imported Cane Cosrso looked more than the American Cane Corso. I loved how they had tighter skin, had less wrinkles, and did not have droopy eyes. I went ahead and bought my first couple adult European Cane Corsos and that’s when I officially started Rockstarr Kennel.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Starting Rockstarr Kennel took a lot of hard work, patience, discipline, hardships, time and effort. It was not an easy task, there are a lot of ups and downs that goes on when building a kennel, a lot of cleaning, some miscarriages that can sometimes be discouraging when starting out. I’ve also had dogs mate and the females do not get pregnant so as a breeder I do routine health testing to ensure all my dogs are healthy. Through all of that I learned so much along the way and because of it, I am where I am today and have a successful business.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I own a breeding company, Rockstarr Kennel, of Cane Corsos. When breeding, I pride myself on my dogs having good structure, big bones, good head, good muzzle, great movement, balanced temperament with high drive. I produce dogs that are willing to work, such as working dogs.
I’m most proud of how far I’ve come as far as building Rockstarr Kennel. I’m proud to know that I’ve helped many families find their perfect pet and none of my dogs were put in a shelter.
What sets me apart from the others? My dogs and puppies are just a step ahead than the others.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I like Houston because it’s peaceful, calming, and there’s no snow like what I’m used to in New Jersey.
I dislike that it’s a bit slower paced than I’m used to and the traffic and drivers makes it hectic.
Contact Info:
- Email: rockstarrkennel@gmail.com
- Instagram: Rockstarr_kennel
Image Credits
Grant Rodriguez
