reesechickpic
In the Brooder
Hi all, I am sure there is a post about this out there but I wanted to put my specific circumstances into play. We are building a coop that said it is suitable for 12-15 chickens. we got 15 chicks, they're two weeks old now. after more research, I think the coop size is fine for 15 chickens but they will have to be free range also. I have a few concerns with this, although, I know it would be best, I would like to know the best way to solve some of these problems.
1. we have a huge property with not great fencing, lots of different plants, tall trees, places to hide/get lost.
-how do we make sure they stay in close proximity and make sure they go in before dark? we've had problems with them roosting in trees and not being able to get them out.
2. the dog. Ideally, he would be friendly with the chickens and they could all run and play together. he chases anything that runs, I think he even chases the sound of his echo in the canyons. he's a small dog, but really beefy and can be territorial. a large male French bulldog, for anyone wondering.
-how do we introduce them? the dog is very friendly with our cat, but the cat doesn't run from him and they've been around each other for ~5 years. he chases other cats that show up around our house.
I guess those are the two main problems we're facing. any tips on a coop size for 15 chickens or how to manage a 'free range' flock under these circumstances?
1. we have a huge property with not great fencing, lots of different plants, tall trees, places to hide/get lost.
-how do we make sure they stay in close proximity and make sure they go in before dark? we've had problems with them roosting in trees and not being able to get them out.
2. the dog. Ideally, he would be friendly with the chickens and they could all run and play together. he chases anything that runs, I think he even chases the sound of his echo in the canyons. he's a small dog, but really beefy and can be territorial. a large male French bulldog, for anyone wondering.
-how do we introduce them? the dog is very friendly with our cat, but the cat doesn't run from him and they've been around each other for ~5 years. he chases other cats that show up around our house.
I guess those are the two main problems we're facing. any tips on a coop size for 15 chickens or how to manage a 'free range' flock under these circumstances?