I have a 10 month old weimaraner. He has been raised around my chickens and will leave them alone on my command. However, I will never have the chickens free ranging when the pup is outside without me. I trained him very well but he is a hunting dog and I must respect that. So, when he is outside, the chickens are safely in their run. When the chickens are free ranging, he goes out the front to potty, not in the backyard. Common sense with any dog and proper training and I believe you will be fine. Good luck!