Dogs and chickens

[Noymira]

Good luck, I hope you can make it work! I think training will be key with the dobe, they are smart, but she needs to learn that the chicks are not toys/treats and are YOURS!

My mom has two terriers (half westie/half yoikie), who will ALWAYS be on leash at my house. I do not trust them with the chickens, their instincts are just too strong. She raised these dogs from puppies and they are 10 years old, one of them cannot be let off leash or he runs after the first turkey, squirrel, coyote, or cat he sees/smells. They came to visit our chickens when we first got them and he was so anxious about wanting to get them that he sat trembling and whining outside the chicken tractor. They are the sweetest dogs, but some dogs like terriers just can't overcome their instincts for hunting.

 

[NanaLantana]

Be sure to remind the dogs EVERY day, maybe many times a day, whenever he looks at the chickens, say in a strong voice, "NO CHICKENS FOR YOU!" You have to be very watchful alert to train the dog - - - - -

 

[wsmith]

I saw an episode of "the Dog Whisperer" a few years ago where he was working with a dog, to not bother the chickens and ducks. By the time they were done, a chicken was walking around ON the dog with no issues. Very interesting stuff. So, I suppose depending on the dog and your dedication to training it, you could perhaps maybe if you are lucky teach it not to harm the poultry.......