Getting started with breeding

[BlueGlassJar]

Hello everyone!

I hope you knowledgeable folks can offer some advice. I have a few hatchery Dominiques that are not breeding-worthy. But having fallen in love with the breed, I'm now thinking about buying some high-quality Doms next year and learning how to breed our own sustainable flock, just to keep our family supplied with meat, eggs, and beautiful birds.

How do I get started? Should I buy a dozen chicks from two different breeders and pick out one rooster from the one breeder, and a half dozen hens from the other breeder, and that's that? Or... what should my plan be? Good advice and sources of futher information (books, websites) is much appreciated!

 

[J-Sanders]

Are you looking to show the birds or just have a sustainable flock of producers? For show, yes a top breeder would be required if you want to save time and be a show bird enthusiast. But if you want to manage your flock to obtain the qualities that you require then the hatchery chickens and a judicious cull and breed program will get you what you seek.

Jim

 

[BlueGlassJar]

Thanks for replying Although I'm not interested in showing chickens, I do want to pursue the SOP just for my own personal satisfaction. So I've decided to start with quality stock from a private breeder(s). I need to learn about the basic science of breeding (books? other resources?) because I've heard that even good stock can go downhill in just a few generations if not managed well.

How can I do well at breeding healthy, show-quality chickens? If I buy a couple dozen chicks all from the same breeder, will they be too closely related to breed together...? Do I need a starter flock of 100 birds...? Should I buy stock from 5 different breeders to make sure my gene pool is sufficiently diverse?? *scratch head*

 

[devora]

Can I add a Q? Is it possible to breed w/ a rented roo? Do people stud a rooster for those of us who don't want one in the flock? (Sorry for piggybacking BlueGlassJar!)

 

[J-Sanders]

BGJ, first start with the APA SOP manual as it will explain a good bit of what you are seeking to do with your flock. This book will give you direction and a good bit of understanding of the process.

Devora, I am sure you could "rent" a Roo if you are active in the poultry community around you and provided the stud had the traits you were looking for. Get involved with your local club or if there isn't one. Then start one! Meet once every couple of weeks and grow your own so to speak.

Jim

 

[BlueGlassJar]

Thank you!!

Edit: This book looks useful too (available on inter-library loan) http://www.amazon.com/conservation-...r=8-1&keywords=conservation+breeding+handbook