Black Mouth Cur. He's a rescue from TN and typically a hunting breed but he's a natural when it comes to protecting the hens. We were shocked. But he's really good at it. He is always watching over them. We were amazed to see him watch the sky on his own and then jump up also when a hen alerts.
I don't let them out unless I am out there. I also have a good livestock guardian dog. But I never let the hens out alone. Even if I have to run in the house, I usually have someone come out and watch while I am inside.