total newbie.... my 15 yr old son has interest in having chickens for egggs.. will this structure wo

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j72397

j72397

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Jun 6, 2016
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This is a large area fenced with an old dog house. It is empty inside. What would I have to do to make this structure work for about 5 chickens?
 
Hi and welcome to BYC - glad that you have joined us. I'd suggest posting your question in the "coops and runs" forum, including dimensions of the structure, for the best advice. Also include where you live, as prevailing weather conditions can also be a factor in design.

All the best
CT
 
Rule of thumb 4-5 sq.feet per bird in the coop excluding nest box and roosts, and 10 sq.feet per bird in the outdoor run. Also they would need ventilation - and doors that can be closed up at dusk to keep predators out.
 
Hi and welcome.

As well as the previous suggestions about ventilation and doors, it would also probably be better raised off the ground by a couple of feet to prevent rats nesting underneath and to give the chickens some shelter/shade under it and to make cleaning out a little less of a back breaking job. Roost bars with pull out poop boards underneath to catch the majority of droppings certainly makes mucking out easier too and of course, a couple of nest boxes for 5 chickens should be enough.

Good luck to you and your son in your new enterprise

Regards

Barbara
 
Welcome to BYC
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That dog house does have great potential for a coop-conversion. they'll need something to roost on, ventilation and nest boxes in there. Space would be an important consideration here as well. If you post some more pics and details in the Coop & Run - Design, Construction, & Maintenance forum section, we'd be able to advice you more.
 

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