Dog / coyotes?

[NHMountainMan]

My dog spends most of his day lounging inside the electric fencing with the pullets. They are skittish around me, but very comfortable with him (as you can see)

As I've found coyote scat on the outside of the electric net - I know they've been scouting.

Do you think the chickens being so relaxed around the dog makes them more susceptible to coyotes? Can the tell the difference between the guardian vs the predator?

 

[slordaz]

That is a good question, Mine use my dogs for perches if they are napping outside and not scared of them. but are terrified of the neighbors dog after it was running loose and got one of their flock mates. so couldn't tell you if before they would know the difference or after an attack. they let a stray cat in though. Usually they go by my old rooster on if it's tolerated or not, or if the dogs are growling or barking too.

 

[DobieLover]

My dog spends most of his day lounging inside the electric fencing with the pullets. They are skittish around me, but very comfortable with him (as you can see)

As I've found coyote scat on the outside of the electric net - I know they've been scouting.

Do you think the chickens being so relaxed around the dog makes them more susceptible to coyotes? Can the tell the difference between the guardian vs the predator?

I don't believe it does. Chickens can recognize faces. They would view any canine they don't know as a potential threat.

 

[glassdragonfly]

I don't believe it does. Chickens can recognize faces. They would view any canine they don't know as a potential threat.

I agree,mine know the difference between our dogs and stays.They even know our cats.

 

[NHMountainMan]

The dog in the picture is very calm and has shown an incredible attachment to the chickens. He likes being with them and it's hard for me to call him in. I inherited the 5 birds in the picture at 4 weeks old and they won't let me anywhere near them - but trust Titan. I'm glad to hear you say your chickens seem to know trustworthy vs risk.
Thank you.

 

[quackersandfern]

No, but they aren't going to be able to get away from coyotes if they are in your area and decide to attack.

 

[NHMountainMan]

No, but they aren't going to be able to get away from coyotes if they are in your area and decide to attack.

I'm hoping the electric netting keeps them away. Just don't want them walking up to the fence thinking it's a dog. I baited the fence with bacon hopefully the recent coyote visitor gets deterred. Hoping the dog serves to deter too... Though I'm not sure he's much of a fighter.

 

[SarahGfa]

I had a pullet that walked up to a coyote, a few years ago. She was hand-raised indoors and had no fear of anything. Some chickens are too curious for their own good. Amazingly this hen is still alive (she is smarter now).