What breed of bird should I get for show next year?

[MROO]

I'm thinking about setting up a breeding program at home, but I'd rather not bring a rare breed to show in case something happens. I am bringing d'Uccles

Don't be afraid of a rare breed! Once you've gotten them established at home. taking them to shows is really a minimal risk. It's a risk we take because we want to get these little birds back on the map. Heritage chickens tend to be pretty sturdy stock ... which is one of the main reasons they are classified as "Heritage" in the first place. They're tough little birds!

 

[MROO]

I'm going to get d'Uccles, and should I get two of one variety or one of each??

If you plan to hatch chicks, stick to a single variety. If you're just getting hens and chicks don't matter, pick an assortment!

 

[sunny_bellyboo]

If you plan to hatch chicks, stick to a single variety. If you're just getting hens and chicks don't matter, pick an assortment!

ok

 

[MROO]

O

Are they super popular to show where you live?

I am thinking maybe something more unusual like mottled houdans or sultans would be fun.

If sticking with the D'uccle maybe the porcelain would do well.

Ooh! Sultans! YES! My only concern with those would be MidWest winter cold and those wonderfully funky combs. If they have a protected run , they should be fine.

 

[sunny_bellyboo]

Don't be afraid of a rare breed! Once you've gotten them established at home. taking them to shows is really a minimal risk. It's a risk we take because we want to get these little birds back on the map. Heritage chickens tend to be pretty sturdy stock ... which is one of the main reasons they are classified as "Heritage" in the first place. They're tough little birds!

yeah I bet. But I'll wait until I start the breeding program. Is it ok to have one rooster and two hens???

 

[sunny_bellyboo]

O

Ooh! Sultans! YES! My only concern with those would be MidWest winter cold and those wonderfully funky combs. If they have a protected run , they should be fine.

yeah we usually just let them out so that's why I wouldn't get those

 

[MROO]

ok

Then again, if you can keep them separate for breeding purposes, get multiples ... they're all so pretty that it's hard to choose!

 

[sunny_bellyboo]

Then again, if you can keep them separate for breeding purposes, get multiples ... they're all so pretty that it's hard to choose!

speaking of breeding would it be ok to have one rooster with two hens??

 

[featherhead007]

@featherhead007 should I get a Mille Fleur or a Porcelain variety of the d'Uccles??

my opinion, variety of d'Uccles. hearty birds

 

[ChickenCanoe]

I don't show but I've been to a few shows from small local affairs to big regional ones and strictly in my opinion, I would go with a less common yet APA recognized breed. This, while also selecting a breed that will give you less competition in your class. I can't help but think there would be a lot of silkies, cochins, orpingtons and maybe even seramas.
The criteria for a breed that you listed in your first post is a good one. Cage training and calmness when handled by strangers will be critical regardless of what breed you choose.
The judge at one show, who is a friend of mine, told me he didn't rate the best rooster because the rooster bit him and drew blood.
I would also choose a breed you think you and your family may want in your breeding program.
The following breed charts should be helpful for choosing based on personality and other characteristics.
http://www.albc-usa.org/documents/chickenbreedcomparison.pdf
http://www.sagehenfarmlodi.com/chooks/chooks.html