Dog proof

[Alwayswantchics]

I need suggestions on how to dog proof my small coop. Dogs have already killed 9+ chickens by digging. Pls help.

 

[nbenevento]

Dig a 12" trench around the outside of the run and coop. Get some 36" hardware cloth. Bury the hardware cloth, leaving 24" sticking up and attach it to the posts lining your pen. They will but be disappointed when they still can't get in. Go deeper if they are particularly skilled diggers.

 

[aart]

Or an apron rather than buried, easier and more effective.
Pic of coop and run, show how dogs got in would help.

 

[nbenevento]

The apron looks awesome! I didn't know about that method! I am definitely switching to that. Thanks!

 

[Alwayswantchics]

That sounds like something I could do. Thanks.

 

[cafarmgirl]

I like hot wire. I have a strand around the base of my run and it has been extremely effective. I've never had a dog make a second attempt on my coop after touching that wire with their nose. The reason I like it is because it not only stops the dog from getting in but the dog gets an immediate and memorable punishment for what it's doing. All they know is that the chicken coop/run is a very, very bad place to be!

 

[sourland]

I like hot wire. I have a strand around the base of my run and it has been extremely effective. I've never had a dog make a second attempt on my coop after touching that wire with their nose. The reason I like it is because it not only stops the dog from getting in but the dog gets an immediate and memorable punishment for what it's doing. All they know is that the chicken coop/run is a very, very bad place to be!

Excellent and effective solution for almost all mammalian predators.

 

[centrarchid]

I like hot wire. I have a strand around the base of my run and it has been extremely effective. I've never had a dog make a second attempt on my coop after touching that wire with their nose. The reason I like it is because it not only stops the dog from getting in but the dog gets an immediate and memorable punishment for what it's doing. All they know is that the chicken coop/run is a very, very bad place to be!

My new favorite method even for rickety chicken tractors. My dogs learn how to get around it but problem critters like dogs, foxes, raccoons and opossums excited by prospect of chicken get zapped every time they try to challenge even the flimsiest coop wire. Can be very mobile cutting down on labor as well.