Embark on a captivating journey into the world of gamefowl breeding with the dynamic father-and-son duo Dante and Paul Hinlo of DVH & Sons Gamefarm. Discover their legacy, strategies, and shared passion that continue to define their excellence and shape the future of the sport.
The Beginning of a Legacy
For Dante Hinlo, gamefowl breeding began as a childhood fascination that evolved into a lifelong pursuit of perfection. Growing up surrounded by his father’s birds, Dante was immersed early in the art and discipline of gamefowl handling.
“The turning point came when my father challenged me to catch the meanest rooster on our farm without getting hurt,” Dante recalls. “Armed only with a handful of crack corn, I managed to catch it—that was my initiation into the world of gamefowl at age nine.”
Over the years, Dante’s skill, patience, and hands-on approach shaped him into one of the most respected figures in the breeding community.
Passing on the Passion
Paul Hinlo, the next generation of DVH, grew up watching and learning from both his father and grandfather. During his summer breaks in Manapla, where the original DVH farm stood, Paul observed his grandfather’s meticulous methods—his record-keeping, pen setups, and dedication to research.
“Paul studied our breeding books and magazines, tracing records and helping in yearly pen setups,” Dante shares. “That curiosity became passion.”
The DVH Edge
What sets DVH & Sons Gamefarm apart is its strong foundation in teamwork and tradition. “My father was the breeder, I was the handler, and my brother Banjo was the gaffer. That combination gave me an edge,” Dante explains. “We learned the game from the ground up.”
Their achievements include multiple championships in Candelaria, back-to-back titles in NGBA and GF-BAN, and other major wins that cemented their name in gamefowl circles.
Principles of Success
Dante’s guiding principle is simple yet powerful:
“Prioritize the health of the fowl above all. A bird’s well-being determines its performance.”
At DVH & Sons, they trust Excellence Products and Warhawk Feeds, chosen after thorough research. Proper care, nutrition, and attention to detail form the cornerstone of their continued success.
The DVH Signature Line
Their signature line stays vigorous and competitive through the foundation of Dan Gray Roundheads, strengthened by DVH Blacks and Doms. Controlled crossbreeding ensures balance, power, and adaptability.
- Dan Gray Roundheads – Sharp cutters with intelligent timing.
- Blacks – Aggressive, committed, and versatile in battle.
- Doms – Strategic and patient, with excellent footwork.
“Our Dan Grays are precision cutters; our Blacks are aggressive tacticians; our Doms are thinkers,” Dante explains. “Together, they make a complete line.”
Breeding and Management Philosophy
Every process at DVH is documented meticulously—from breeding records to vaccination and deworming schedules.
“Pen and paper are indispensable tools,” Dante emphasizes. “We’ve been tracking lineage since the early 2000s.”
He practices mild to moderate inbreeding, favoring cousin-to-cousin or grandchild-to-grandparent pairings to maintain strength while preventing genetic weakness.
The Never-Ending Pursuit of Improvement
“To stay on top, never think you’re the best,” Dante says firmly. “This sport evolves constantly. Adapt and keep learning.”
Their birds have flown beyond the Philippines, with successful placements in Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia, earning international recognition.
Keys to Bloodline Preservation
For those acquiring materials, Dante advises:
“Start with trios that aren’t closely related. Breed cousins to preserve quality and vigor.”
When selecting a brood stag or hen, Dante looks for clear eyes, strong body, station, and dominance—and for hens, a solid bloodline history.
Purity, he explains, lies not in isolation but in consistency—birds that reflect their ancestral traits in both conformation and fighting style.
Daily Care and Challenges
Dante’s daily routine revolves around nutrition, cleanliness, and observation. “You must understand their instincts,” he says. Common challenges include parasites, respiratory issues, and weather shifts—but disciplined routines keep them in top shape.
For Aspiring Breeders
“Start with knowledge and patience,” Dante advises. “Focus on one or two bloodlines, perfect them, and avoid overmixing. Research, stay ethical, and always prioritize your birds’ welfare.”
On Ethics and Responsibility
Balancing tradition with ethics is part of DVH’s philosophy. “Responsible breeding means giving our birds a dignified life,” Dante notes. “We promote the positive side of the sport—discipline, respect, and legacy.”
Purebred Warrior’s Role
Dante closes with gratitude:
“Purebred Warrior is a great help to our growing industry. It educates, inspires, and connects breeders. I hope it continues to guide new generations toward responsible and passionate breeding.”
