Bred to Perfection

Crossbreeding is a very common method of breeding, but many are using it for the wrong reasons. The truth is, there are some unintended consequences from using this method, many of them are long lasting, and could be detrimental to the breed.   In this episode we will discuss what's good about crossbreeding, but also what's not so good about crossbreeding.  We'll also talk about the difference bet...

In this episode of the Bred to Perfection Podcast , we sit down with Peter Brown to discuss the most common health problems faced by backyard poultry breeders, and what you can do to recognize, prevent, and treat them. Whether you're just getting started with chickens or you've been breeding poultry and gamefowl for years, this episode delivers practical, experience-based information you can use r...

In this episode, we talk about the fascinating and sometimes challenging world of breeding with a seasoned master breeder who shares their personal journey. Becoming a true expert in breeding isn't an overnight accomplishment, it takes years of hands-on experience, trial and error, and invaluable guidance from mentors. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of this journey, from the early mistak...

In this episode, we explore the relationship between nutrition and genetic potential in gamefowl and chickens. While genetics play a foundational role in a bird's growth and development, egg production, immunity, and overall performance, it's optimal nutrition that truly allows these genetic traits to shine. Each stage of a bird's life requires specific nutrients to ensure they reach their maximum...

A Critical Tool for Creating a Successful Strain In this episode, we dive deep into the world of test matings, an essential practice for any breeder involved in chickens and gamefowl, poultry of all kinds, livestock, or other species with valuable genetic traits. Test matings are a vital tool for evaluating the genetic makeup of animals and making informed decisions about breeding practices. Witho...

Brood Fowl Selection, Breeding Strains, and Health Care. Just in Time for the Holidays Christmas is almost here, and with the holidays upon us, it's the perfect time to slow down and connect. In this special Christmas Q&A episode, we're taking an easy day and answering your questions. It's been a while since we've done a Q&A, and we thought the holiday season was the ideal moment to bring it back....

In this episode, we tackle one of the most critical steps in breeding: cleaning up your gene pool. Many breeders aspire to create strong, healthy strains, but often find themselves working with birds that have multiple faults. Whether you're thinking of infusing outside blood or relying on random breeding, there's a crucial cleanup process you must follow before you can start developing the strain...

In this episode, we talk about the six foundational principles of strain creation in animal breeding, crucial knowledge for anyone serious about starting or improving a breeding program. Whether you're breeding birds, livestock, or other animals, understanding these principles can help you develop strains that not only represent their breed, but are genetically strong, healthy, and productive.   W...

Settle in, loosen that belt, and get ready for a Thanksgiving-sized conversation! In this special holiday episode of Bred to Perfection , Kenny Troiano and Brian Reeder team up once again for an unscripted, open-ended, and always entertaining deep dive into the world of breeding and poultry genetics. If you're stuffed with turkey and looking for the perfect show to veg out to, this is it. Join us...

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rodrigo Gallardo , poultry veterinarian from UC Davis , to unpack the critical connection between biosecurity and the prevention of Avian Influenza (AI) — a highly contagious and potentially devastating disease for all chickens and gamefowl breeders and their bloodlines. Whether you're a breeder or raiser, understanding how AI spreads and how to block it at th...

A Conversation with Jim Anderson and Amanda Hughes of the Southern California Poultry Club In this episode of the Bred to Perfection , we sit down with Jim Anderson and Amanda Hughes of the Southern California Poultry Club to spotlight one of the most breeder-focused events in the country—the 3rd Annual American & Oriental Gamefowl Show , happening Saturday, November 22, 2025 , at the Lake Perris...

What he's planning for himself, and the next generation of chickens, and why it matters to you. In this in-depth episode, Kenny Troiano sits down with renowned breeder, author, and genetic enthusiast Brian Reeder for a masterclass in poultry breeding. Brian shares the story behind his lifelong passion, diving into his groundbreaking research on immunogenetics, coloration, and the science that driv...

Building Superior Bloodlines and Strains In this episode, we talk about the art and science of selective breeding —the true foundation of every great bloodline. Whether you're breeding chickens, gamefowl, or other poultry, these 15 proven rules will help you to create healthier, stronger, and more consistent birds generation after generation. We'll break down everything from choosing your Seed Fow...

Join Kenny Troiano, founder of the Breeders Academy, and his co-hosts as they delve into the intricacies of gamefowl breeding in this episode of Bred to Perfection. Whether you're a seasoned breeder or new to the scene, Kenny and his team discuss key concepts such as genetic principles, breeding strategies, and the importance of selective breeding. The episode also addresses common misconceptions...

Breeding for the complete package involves selecting individuals that possess a combination of desirable traits. Overall, breeding for the complete package offers numerous advantages in terms of improving breed characteristics, as well as, improved health and better resistance to disease, better performance ability, and overall adaptability and survivability to their environment. And, having a str...

Join Kenny Troiano and Frank Bradley , as they discuss the misconceptions surrounding "who is most important, the cock, or the hen." The discussion about who is more valuable, the cock or hen, is as old as the chicken itself. It has been a huge debate for as long as I can remember. Everyone has an opinion, but who is right? Many say it's the cock. But when you look at it more closely, you see how...

In this thought-provoking episode of Bred to Perfection , Kenny and Frank dive deep into the powerful connection between evolutionary biology and selective breeding —and how understanding this relationship is the key to creating, improving, and preserving a pure strain of chickens or gamefowl. Contrary to what some believe, building a true family or strain isn't a myth—it's a science. But most bre...

One is temporary, the other is long lasting, but which is best? As a breeder, you have many tools that you can use to create and improve your strain. None are more important, or have the force to move your strain forward than that of Prepotency. The problem is, for many breeders, Hybrid Vigor gets all the credit. The truth of the matter, Prepotency and Hybrid Vigor are both incredible forces of na...

In this episode of Bred to Perfection , Kenny and Nancy Troiano break down the foundational principles every chicken and gamefowl breeder needs to master to build a true strain. From selecting your seed fowl — your "Adam and Eve" — to identifying genetically weak birds, managing inbreeding, and preserving vital traits like broodiness, this episode is your roadmap to breeding success. We debunk com...

In this episode, we break down everything chicken and gamefowl breeders need to know about Avian Metapneumovirus (aMPV) — a fast-moving respiratory virus that threatens, not only your flock's health, but also the integrity of your bloodlines and breeding program. From swollen heads and foamy eyes to plummeting egg production and fertility issues, aMPV can wreak havoc in both commercial and small-s...

In this episode of Bred to Perfection , we dive into one of the biggest challenges breeders face—controlling and eliminating rats and mice. These pesky rodents can wreak havoc on your farm by contaminating feed, damaging infrastructure, and even threatening the health of your birds. Join us as we discuss the different types of rats—Norway rats and Roof rats—and how they behave around your farm. Le...

In this episode, we talk about line-breeding —one of the most effective and powerful methods used by breeders to create superior bloodlines and stabilize favorable traits over generations. Whether you're breeding domestic chickens, gamefowl or dogs, understanding line-breeding is key to creating a consistent, high-performing strain. But, like any breeding method, it's not without its problems and...

For serious gamefowl breeders and poultry keepers, molt isn't just a downtime — it's a genetic checkpoint and a vital phase that shapes your birds' future health, performance, and breeding value. Yet many breeders unknowingly sabotage this crucial period with one common misstep: dropping protein and cutting weight too aggressively. In this episode, we break down: What actually happens during the m...

Many breeders operate under the assumption that they're making informed decisions, yet often they are unaware of the crucial knowledge gaps that can lead to the downfall of their strains. It's essential to recognize that sometimes, the greatest risks come from what we don't know we should be doing—or avoiding—in our breeding practices. The journey of improving an established strain is rarely strai...

In this episode of Bred to Perfection , we reveal The 10 Commandments of Breeding —the foundational principles every serious breeder must follow to create a true, lasting strain . Whether you're just getting started or you're a seasoned breeder looking to refine your program, these commandments will guide you toward building a strain that is healthy, uniform and consistent, and repeatable for gene...