Bred to Perfection

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-scale breeding operations if not caught early and managed properly. We’ll cover: What aMPV is and why it's a growing threat in the U.S. Subtypes and where they’re spreading across poultry-producing states Clinical signs in chickens, turkeys, and gamefowl How the virus spreads — and why your own boots might be the culprit Treatment options and the real value of supportive care Essential prevention strategies: biosecurity, vaccination, and flock management How aMPV can derail your breeding progress and set back your strain development Whether you're raising birds for show, breeding champions, or producing for the table, this episode arms you with the vital knowledge to detect, prevent, and fight back against one of today’s most disruptive poultry diseases. Your bloodlines are only as strong as your biosecurity. Don’t miss this one. #GamefowlBreeding #PoultryHealth #AvianMetapneumovirus #FlockManagement #BiosecurityMatters #ProtectYourBloodlines 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 veterinarian Peter Brown, an expert on poultry healthcare, as he teams up with co-host Frank Bradley to tackle the rodent menace threatening your flock. They explore how rats, particularly Norway and Roof rats, can devastate farms by spreading diseases and damaging infrastructure. Peter shares vital strategies for rodent control, including effective traps and biosecurity measures. With humorous anecdotes, they highlight the importance of pest management to ensure the health and safety of your poultry.

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 misconceptions. We'll start by breaking down the crucial difference between breeding methods (like line-breeding) and breeding programs, and explain how line-breeding fits into a broader strategy. We’ll also touch on what makes line-breeding unique, including its ability to reinforce desirable traits, such as conformation and overall performance, while also addressing the potential pitfalls if not done correctly. You'll learn: What line-breeding is—and how it differs from inbreeding, backcrossing, and other methods. Why the selection and culling process is absolutely essential for success. How to manage the balance between genetic purity and diversity to avoid risks like inbreeding depression and genetic bottlenecks. How far to take your line-breeding—what’s too much and when to stop. And so much more, including how to incorporate line-breeding into a broader breeding program, such as the Founder’s Program, and ensure long-term genetic improvement! Line-breeding isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and it’s not for the faint of heart—it requires a deep understanding of genetics, a commitment to ongoing education, and a willingness to invest in the future of your bloodline. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced breeder, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the complexity of line-breeding and make better breeding decisions. Tune in to learn how to create and improve your strain for future generations! Let the molt reveal the strength of your line — not the weaknesses of your management. 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

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 molt — physically, nutritionally, and behaviorally The risks of underfeeding fit birds during feather regrowth Why dropping protein and forcing weight loss can lead to brittle feathers, extended molt duration, weakened immunity, and long-term performance decline Smart, supportive strategies to help your birds recover fast and come back stronger How proper molt management preserves your bloodline’s resilience, immune strength, and conditioning foundation Whether you’re aiming to maintain show-quality birds or prepare top-performing gamefowl for next season, understanding how to feed, condition, and support your flock during molt is non-negotiable. This isn’t just a feeding issue — it’s a breeding strategy. Key Takeaway: Don’t starve your birds to "reset" them — support them to rebuild stronger. Feed smart. Condition wisely. Breed for resilience. Let the molt reveal the strength of your line — not the weaknesses of your management. 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

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 straightforward; it involves navigating a maze of complexities. While some choices may seem innocuous, they can have devastating effects on the integrity of a strain. Poor breeding decisions, neglecting essential practices, or failing to adapt to new information can all jeopardize your efforts and ultimately diminish your strain’s quality. As breeders, our responsibility extends beyond merely creating a strain; we must strive to develop strains that stand the test of time. This involves not only improving our strains with each generation, but also ensuring their sustainability for the future. A solid foundation of best practices is crucial to achieving this goal. Today, we’ll talk about the various pitfalls that can lead to the destruction of your current strain or thwart your aspirations of developing a unique one. Understanding these risks is the first step toward making informed, beneficial choices that will foster the longevity and success of your breeding endeavors. Let’s explore how you can protect and enhance your strain for generations to come. 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

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 generations to come. Join Kenny and the team as they break down the core philosophies and time-tested strategies that separate great breeders from the rest. From prioritizing health and selecting for desirable traits, to maintaining detailed records and breeding with purpose, this episode is packed with essential knowledge that will transform your breeding journey. You’ll learn: Why health should always come first—and how to ensure it How to select for the right traits, while avoiding defects The power and risks of inbreeding—and how to do it right Why record-keeping is critical to your success The underestimated value of the hen, as the true foundation of your strain How to practice effective biosecurity Why nutrition is key to revealing your birds’ full potential The importance of continuous education and understanding the science of breeding We also dig into the often-overlooked topics of epigenetics, outcrossing myths, strain purity, and more—touching on “The Lost Tablets” of breeding wisdom that every breeder should know. Whether you're aiming to build a family from scratch or improve an existing line, this episode will help you breed with purpose, avoid common pitfalls, and set your strain on the path to long-term success. Perfect for beginners and experienced breeders alike. Tune in and learn how to create a legacy—not just a flock. Available now on all major podcast platforms. 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

Breeding Terms Simplified is your go-to resource for demystifying the complex world of breeding terminology. This episode delves into key glossary terms, scientific principles, and advanced concepts related to breeding—whether you're a novice or a seasoned breeder. This episode also unpacks critical terms, like gene recombination, selective breeding strategies, polygenic traits, and hybrid vigor, helping you expand your breeding knowledge and improve your vocabulary. Perfect for anyone looking to refine their understanding of genetics and inheritance, this podcast offers clear explanations and expert insights to enhance your breeding practices and genetic literacy. Tune in and start mastering the language of breeding today! Show Highlights: Learn the science behind selective breeding, meiosis, and inheritance patterns Understand complex terms like crossover, gene linkage, and genetic drift Explore breeding strategies like line breeding, crossbreeding, and hybridization Master advanced topics such as epigenetics, mitochondrial DNA, and disease resistance Improve your breeding vocabulary and apply it to your practices Perfect for breeders, or anyone passionate about the science of inheritance and what it takes to create a true strain! 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

In this continuation of our series The 12 Key Challenges in Breeding and Creating a Strain, Episode 150 dives deep into the complexities of establishing a true, purebred strain—examining the connection and similarities between evolutionary biology and selective breeding practices. Breeders striving for perfection face a wide range of challenges, from genetic issues to environmental influences, and this episode uncovers the scientific foundations and practical strategies for overcoming them. We'll explore the 4 Mechanisms of Evolution identified by Charles Darwin—variation, inheritance, overproduction of offspring, and differential survival and reproduction—and how these principles relate directly to selective breeding. As breeders select for specific traits, understanding these natural processes is key to creating a healthy, viable strain over time. Challenges #6-8 focus on: Dealing with Epigenetics: The way environmental factors, such as geography, nutrition, and management, can influence genetic expression in ways that go beyond traditional inheritance. We’ll break down how breeders can harness epigenetic mechanisms for the betterment of their strains, while managing the effects of undesirable traits. Gene Flow and Genetic Instability: How the continuous influx of external genes through practices like outcrossing and crossbreeding can affect the purity of a strain. Learn how breeders can manage and even halt gene flow to avoid genetic dilution and ensure the integrity of their breed. Genetic Drift: The unpredictable changes in genetic composition that occur in small populations. Discover how breeders can use genetic drift to their advantage, preserving and enhancing strains during periods of reduced numbers, while avoiding its pitfalls, such as bottlenecking. By understanding the science behind selective breeding and the biological forces that drive evolution, breeders can make informed decisions that will help them create strong, sustainable strains. Whether you're a seasoned breeder or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate the challenges of breeding for excellence. Tune in for a deeper understanding of how evolutionary biology intersects with breeding practices and how you can apply this knowledge to your own breeding program. Don't forget to bring your questions—we’re here to help you grow your breeding knowledge! 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

In Episode 255 of the Bred to Perfection Podcast, host Kenny Troiano of the Breeders Academy—joined by co-host Frank Bradley and Nancy Troiano—talk about the most common and critical challenges breeders face when developing a pure strain of chickens or gamefowl. Whether you're starting with hybrid stock or looking to refine an existing bloodline, this episode offers practical advice, expert insights, and proven breeding strategies to help you take your program to the next level. Learn why controlled inbreeding, eliminating genetic defects, preserving type and conformation, and selecting for natural health are essential to building a line that breeds true and thrives for generations. Discover the dangers of over-medicating, the myths of outcrossing, and the importance of selecting birds for more than just performance. This episode also highlights Kenny’s Founder's Program, a structured breeding method designed to transform even hybrid birds into high-quality, sustainable strains. Key Topics Include: The fear and facts about inbreeding Why random outcrossing can ruin your progress Building from hybrid stock without hidden defects The importance of type, structure, and conformation Eliminating genetic flaws through ruthless selection Selecting for natural disease resistance and vigor Breeding for the complete package—not just one trait If you’re ready to ditch outdated methods and master the science of strain creation, this is the episode for you. Prepare to cull hard, select smart, and breed with purpose! Listen now and join the journey to becoming a master breeder. Hashtags for Social Media and YouTube: #PoultryBreeding #InbreedingFacts #GamefowlBreeding #ChickenBreeding #BackyardBreeders #SelectiveBreeding  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

Mastering Breeding: Genetics, Selection, and the Path to Purity Welcome to Episode 254 of Bred to Perfection, brought to you by the Maximus Troy Publications Broadcasting Network! Join host Kenny Troiano, founder of The Breeders Academy, alongside Nancy Troiano and Frank Bradley, for a deep dive into the science and strategy of breeding. Whether you're building a new strain from scratch or working to improve an existing line, this episode delivers everything you need to elevate your breeding program. We explore essential topics including: The truth about recessive genes and homozygosity The strategic use of inbreeding, line-breeding, and outcrossing How epigenetics and the environment influence gene expression Breeding tools like the Founder’s Program and subline development Managing hybrid vigor and understanding polygenic traits Selecting for health, vigor, and disease resistance without over-relying on medication In a clear, no-nonsense format, the team breaks down complex genetics into actionable steps for breeders at every level. Plus, a listener Q&A tackles real-world challenges—from managing inbreeding depression to ensuring consistency in your bloodlines. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned breeder refining your strain, this episode will help you build a healthier, more predictable, and genetically sound line of chickens or gamefowl. Listen now and start breeding with confidence! #BredToPerfection #BreedersAcademy #GamefowlBreeding #GeneticsSimplified #InbreedingExplained #BackyardBreeding  Welcome to Bred to Perfection with Kenny, Nancy, and Frank – the go-to podcast for serious breeders who want to master the art and science of selective breeding. Hosted by master breeder Kenny Troiano, his wife and co-host Nancy Troiano, and fellow breeder Frank Bradley, this show talks about the principles of genetics, strain development, health management, and everything you need to breed, raise and maintain high-quality chickens and gamefowl. Each episode offers practical advice, expert interviews, live Q&A sessions, and real-world insight drawn from decades of hands-on experience. Backed by the Breeders Academy, our online learning platform, Bred to Perfection equips breeders of all levels with the knowledge and tools to build strong, sustainable, and productive breeding programs. New to the show? We're glad you're here! Tune into today’s episode to get a feel for what Bred to Perfection is all about. Whether you're just starting out or refining your own strain, you'll find something valuable in every conversation. Fridays at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTubeJoin Kenny Troiano and guests as they explore advanced breeding techniques, poultry nutrition, health management, and genetic sustainability—all with one goal: helping you create high-quality, long-lasting strains. 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