Considering 2 hens for urban backyard. Looking into breeds and between Buff vs. Muscovy. Thoughts?

[DucksPlz]

We are hoping for egg laying and social additions to the family. Located in MN, so hot summers and cold cold cold winters.

We have 2 dogs (barky but do well with our indoor bunny) and a pretty small yard close to neighbors (but big privacy fences). Looking to add 2 calmer, egg laying hens to the family. Whats your experience been like? Would you recommend for this situation? Pictures of your urban backyard set ups is so welcome!

I love the look and temperament of buff hens but have read how quiet/less messy the Muscovy can be like.

 

[GodLovesU]

I believe Muscovy is a breed of duck, are you considering those? I would recommend keeping at least 3 hens. You can find some coop plans here.

 

[Not-so Slick Chicken]

We are hoping for egg laying and social additions to the family. Located in MN, so hot summers and cold cold cold winters.

We have 2 dogs (barky but do well with our indoor bunny) and a pretty small yard close to neighbors (but big privacy fences). Looking to add 2 calmer, egg laying hens to the family. Whats your experience been like? Would you recommend for this situation? Pictures of your urban backyard set ups is so welcome!

I love the look and temperament of buff hens but have read how quiet/less messy the Muscovy can be like.

I love muscovies
(we don't have other ducks or geese, so I can't compare them)

If you want eggs year-round? Muscovies are not the way to go, though. They're seasonal layers.
(At least they are here)

I could go into more detail about them. But if eggs is the goal, there are other ducks that'll do that for you.

 

[NatJ]

I believe Muscovy is a breed of duck, are you considering those? I would recommend keeping at least 3 hens. You can find some coop plans here.

This is the "Duck" section of the forums, and yes Muscovy is a breed of duck.

For ducks or chickens, it could still be a good idea to have at least three, so if something happens to one, there are still two to keep each other company.

Chicken coop designs are not usually quite right for ducks.