Ep270 - The Principles of Strain Creation in Animal Breeding

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 you desire. Join us as we explore the essential first steps for purifying your bloodline and creating the perfect strain. What if you already have birds that aren't ideal or have multiple faults? Don't worry – we've got you covered! Tune in to learn how to clean up your gene pool, even if your current birds aren't perfect, and set yourself on the path to success. Whether you're a seasoned breeder or just starting, this episode will provide you with the strategies and knowledge you need to make the right breeding decisions. Tune in to learn how to create and improve your strain for future generations! Don't forget to subscribe for more expert tips and insights into the world of breeding! Just go to www.breedersacademy.com #BreedingTips #StrainBuilding #GenePoolManagement #SelectiveBreeding #PoultryBreeding #BirdBreedingBasics #BreedingSuccess #Genetics101 #AnimalHusbandry #CleanUpYourGenePool #ImproveYourStrain #StrainImprovement #GeneticSelection #BreedingFoundation #QualityBreeding #HealthyStrains #BreedingStrategies #FaultFreeBreeding Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday's at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy"  We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl.  If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place.  We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com

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.  We start by giving a brief recap of the six principles, Consolidation, Maximization, Fixation, Duplication, Stabilization, and Isolation—and explain how they work together to form the backbone of a successful breeding program. The Principle of Consolidation: Learn how outcrossing and crossbreeding can increase genetic diversity and introduce desirable traits, but if used improperly, it can weaken your strain.  The Principle of Maximization: Discover the power of selective breeding and how to amplify specific traits to continuously improve your strain. The Principle of Fixation: Explore how inbreeding and line-breeding can lock in desirable traits for consistency and reliability. The Principle of Duplication: Understand the importance of creating a strain that is predictable and uniform across generations. The Principle of Stabilization: Find out how to maintain the integrity of your strain, while improving key traits through careful selection and culling. The Principle of Isolation: Learn how to safeguard your strain from contamination, disease, and outside genetic influences to maintain purity and health. We encourage you to put these principles into practice in your own breeding program, whether you're starting from scratch or looking to refine an existing strain. Tune in to discover how mastering these principles can elevate your breeding efforts. This episode is packed with actionable advice, so be sure to grab a notebook and take notes! Don't forget to subscribe for more expert tips and insights into the world of breeding! Just go to www.breedersacademy.com #AnimalBreeding #StrainCreation #BreedingPrinciples #GeneticImprovement #SelectiveBreeding #InbreedingAndLinebreeding #LivestockBreeding #PoultryBreeding #BreedingProgram #GeneticStability #HealthyStrains #BreedersAcademy Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday's at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy"  We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl.  If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place.  We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com

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.  We start by giving a brief recap of the six principles, Consolidation, Maximization, Fixation, Duplication, Stabilization, and Isolation—and explain how they work together to form the backbone of a successful breeding program. The Principle of Consolidation: Learn how outcrossing and crossbreeding can increase genetic diversity and introduce desirable traits, but if used improperly, it can weaken your strain.  The Principle of Maximization: Discover the power of selective breeding and how to amplify specific traits to continuously improve your strain. The Principle of Fixation: Explore how inbreeding and line-breeding can lock in desirable traits for consistency and reliability. The Principle of Duplication: Understand the importance of creating a strain that is predictable and uniform across generations. The Principle of Stabilization: Find out how to maintain the integrity of your strain, while improving key traits through careful selection and culling. The Principle of Isolation: Learn how to safeguard your strain from contamination, disease, and outside genetic influences to maintain purity and health. We encourage you to put these principles into practice in your own breeding program, whether you're starting from scratch or looking to refine an existing strain. Tune in to discover how mastering these principles can elevate your breeding efforts. This episode is packed with actionable advice, so be sure to grab a notebook and take notes! Don't forget to subscribe for more expert tips and insights into the world of breeding! Just go to www.breedersacademy.com #AnimalBreeding #StrainCreation #BreedingPrinciples #GeneticImprovement #SelectiveBreeding #InbreedingAndLinebreeding #LivestockBreeding #PoultryBreeding #BreedingProgram #GeneticStability #HealthyStrains #BreedersAcademy Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday's at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy"  We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl.  If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place.  We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com

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.  We start by giving a brief recap of the six principles, Consolidation, Maximization, Fixation, Duplication, Stabilization, and Isolation—and explain how they work together to form the backbone of a successful breeding program. The Principle of Consolidation: Learn how outcrossing and crossbreeding can increase genetic diversity and introduce desirable traits, but if used improperly, it can weaken your strain.  The Principle of Maximization: Discover the power of selective breeding and how to amplify specific traits to continuously improve your strain. The Principle of Fixation: Explore how inbreeding and line-breeding can lock in desirable traits for consistency and reliability. The Principle of Duplication: Understand the importance of creating a strain that is predictable and uniform across generations. The Principle of Stabilization: Find out how to maintain the integrity of your strain, while improving key traits through careful selection and culling. The Principle of Isolation: Learn how to safeguard your strain from contamination, disease, and outside genetic influences to maintain purity and health. We encourage you to put these principles into practice in your own breeding program, whether you're starting from scratch or looking to refine an existing strain. Tune in to discover how mastering these principles can elevate your breeding efforts. This episode is packed with actionable advice, so be sure to grab a notebook and take notes! Don't forget to subscribe for more expert tips and insights into the world of breeding! Just go to www.breedersacademy.com #AnimalBreeding #StrainCreation #BreedingPrinciples #GeneticImprovement #SelectiveBreeding #InbreedingAndLinebreeding #LivestockBreeding #PoultryBreeding #BreedingProgram #GeneticStability #HealthyStrains #BreedersAcademy Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday's at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy"  We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl.  If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place.  We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com

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 as we "Talk Chickens," swap insights on breeding practices, explore genetic principles, and answer your questions live in the chat. Who knows how long we'll go? When Kenny and Brian get rolling, marathon sessions are almost guaranteed. The real question is: Can you slip away from the family long enough — and do you have the stamina to hang with us from start to finish? We've also got a few exciting announcements you won't want to miss — and trust us, you'll want to act fast before the offers expire. Grab a plate of leftovers, settle into your favorite chair, and enjoy the show!  #BredToPerfection #TalkChickens #PoultryBreeding #ChickenGenetics #ThanksgivingSpecial #KennyTroiano #BrianReeder #BackyardChickens #BreedersChat #PoultryPodcast  Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday's at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy"  We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl.  If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place.  We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com

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 the source is essential. We explore the differences between Low Pathogenic (LPAI) and Highly Pathogenic (HPAI) strains, the role of wild birds in transmission, and the economic and animal welfare impacts of outbreaks. You'll learn: How Avian Influenza is transmitted—and how quickly it can spread The early warning signs of AI in chickens What biosecurity really means and how to implement it effectively Why vaccination isn't a universal solution (and when it might be used) Key biosecurity practices every breeder should follow—regardless of flock size The role of veterinarians in disease surveillance, outbreak response, and long-term prevention Whether you're an experienced breeder or a first-time chicken keeper, this conversation offers practical advice and up-to-date insight to help you keep your birds — and your farm — safe from disease. #AvianInfluenza #Biosecurity #PoultryHealth #GamefowlBreeding #ChickenBreeders #HPAI #LPAI #BackyardChickens #PoultryVeterinaryCare #DiseasePrevention #FarmBiosecurity #UCDAvisPoultry Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday's at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy"  We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl.  If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place.  We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com

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 Fairgrounds in Perris, California. This APA- and ABA-sanctioned event is truly a show built for breeders, featuring specialty classes for American Games, Oriental Games, and Seramas—complete with both cage and tabletop competitions. Jim and Amanda share what makes this year's show stand out, including the double-show format that gives exhibitors twice the feedback, twice the competition, and twice the opportunity to win, all in a single day. You'll also meet this year's judging panel: Ben Porter – Kentucky Amanda Clark – California Jeff Halbach – Arizona Mike Sayre – Ohio We talk about why poultry shows are vital for preserving and improving bloodlines, how they serve as living laboratories for gamefowl breeders, and the importance of competition, education, and community in sustaining breed standards. Whether you're a seasoned breeder or new to the world of exhibition poultry, this episode will get you fired up for a day dedicated to community, competition, and the preservation of our cherished breeds. Join us—and join the community—at the 3rd Annual American & Oriental Gamefowl Show. #BredToPerfectionPodcast #AmericanGamefowl #OrientalGamefowl #SouthernCaliforniaPoultryClub #PoultryBreeders #ExhibitionPoultry #APAABA #SeramaShow #PoultryCommunity #PreserveTheBreed #LakePerrisFairgrounds Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday's at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy"  We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl.  If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place.  We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com

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 drives strong, resilient flocks. From the realities of culling and maintaining genetic quality to the often-overlooked importance of disease resistance, Brian explains what it really takes to breed with integrity. Together, Kenny and Brian tackle common myths, discuss the importance of passion and commitment, and explore how today's breeders can use science, environment, nutrition, and epigenetics to improve the chickens of tomorrow. You'll also hear how Brian's books, consultations, and online presence, including The Art of Breeding, have helped shape a supportive and informed community of breeders through platforms like The Breeders Academy. Whether you're a novice breeder or a seasoned poultry keeper, this episode offers the guidance, inspiration, and practical wisdom you need to take your breeding skills to the next level. Episode Highlights Brian's early journey and scientific research Why passion, not trends, creates great breeders The real challenges of maintaining high-quality stock Genetics, color combinations, and simplifying complex science Responsible selection, culling, and building disease-resistant flocks The role of epigenetics and environmental influence in breeding Mentorship, consultations, and community building Future plans, creative breeding ideas, and why sharing knowledge matters If you're committed to improving your flock, or the future of poultry breeding, this is an episode you won't want to miss. #PoultryBreeding, #ChickenGenetics, #BrianReeder, #BreedersAcademy, #BackyardChickens, #HeritageBreeds, #SelectiveBreeding, #PoultryScience, #EpigeneticsInAnimals, #ChickenBreeders, #GeneticSelection, #SustainableBreeding Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday's at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy"  We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl.  If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place.  We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com

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 Fowl and pairing the right cock to the right hen, to mastering culling, disease resistance, and record-keeping. You'll learn why breeding for the complete package, health, vigor, type, and performance, is key to long-term success, and how to avoid common pitfalls like breeding backward or introducing outside blood. Join us as we discuss what it really takes to build your own strain from scratch—a line that breeds true, performs consistently, and carries your name for generations to come. If you're serious about breeding and ready to elevate your program, this episode will give you the clarity, structure, and inspiration to make it happen. #SelectiveBreeding #BuildingBloodlines #GamefowlBreeding #PoultryGenetics #SuperiorStrains #SeedFowlSelection #BreedingProgram #GeneticExcellence #HeritageBloodlines #FromScratchBreeding Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday's at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy"  We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl.  If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place.  We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com

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 and old wives' tales about gamefowl breeding, providing listeners with scientific insights and practical advice to improve their flock. Tune in for enlightening conversations, listener questions, and expert tips that cater to breeders aiming to elevate their breeding practices. Make sure to follow and watch our future shows. We plan to dive deep into the world of breeding and genetics, nutrition and health management, and provide essential tips, so you too can create high quality strains.  Whether you're breeding domestic chickens, gamefowl, or various types of livestock, this show is for you.  Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday's at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy" We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl.  If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place.  We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com