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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 14, 2026

Production of Germ-Free Fast-Growing Broilers from a Commercial Line for Microbiota Studies

Production of Germ-Free Fast-Growing Broilers from a Commercial Line for Microbiota Studies

Published on: June 18, 2020

Genetic variation of contact dermatitis in broilers.

¹Genetics and Bioinformatics, Department of Basic Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 3, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark. birgitteask@hotmail.com

Poultry Science

|April 8, 2010

Summary

Genetic variation exists for footpad dermatitis (FPD) and hock burns (HB) in broilers, allowing for selection against these conditions. Ignoring FPD during breeding may increase its incidence, impacting broiler welfare.

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Parasite Induced Genetically Driven Autoimmune Chagas Heart Disease in the Chicken Model

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Published on: July 29, 2012

Area of Science:

Animal Science
Genetics
Poultry Science

Background:

Footpad dermatitis (FPD) and hock burns (HB) are welfare concerns in commercial broiler chickens.
Genetic selection is a potential tool to mitigate these issues.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate genetic variation in FPD and HB.
To assess the feasibility of genetic selection against FPD and HB in commercial broiler lines.

Main Methods:

A field trial involving 10 commercial broiler lines (n = 102–265) across 2 Dutch farms.
Subjective scoring of FPD and HB on a 0–5 scale at 4, 5, and 7 weeks.
Estimation of genetic parameters in 2 lines using a larger dataset.

Main Results:

High agreement in repeated FPD and HB scores confirmed scoring reliability.
Significant genetic variation for both FPD and HB was observed between and within broiler lines.
Selection against FPD and HB is possible and recommended.

Conclusions:

Genetic selection against FPD and HB is feasible in commercial broilers.
Selection for increased body weight (BW) without considering FPD may exacerbate FPD prevalence.
Integrated breeding goals are necessary to improve broiler welfare without compromising growth performance.