... or at least, running around the back yard.
My four chicks are about five weeks old and have been living outside in their coop full-time for about a week. Today I decided to let them loose in the yard for the first time, mostly to see how my Chihuahua Lilly would react. I didn't know if she'd chase them or nip at them or what she might do. Turns out, she decided to become one of the flock. All five of them wandered around the yard together, no fear or aggression from anybody. I wouldn't leave her out there unattended until the hens are bigger than she is, but it looks like they are all going to be friends. A cat came into the yard and Lilly chased the cat away. So, a positive experience! Except they just about ruined the petunias, trampling them down with their big feet and eating all the blossoms. But I'm so happy to have chickens that I smiled.
My four chicks are about five weeks old and have been living outside in their coop full-time for about a week. Today I decided to let them loose in the yard for the first time, mostly to see how my Chihuahua Lilly would react. I didn't know if she'd chase them or nip at them or what she might do. Turns out, she decided to become one of the flock. All five of them wandered around the yard together, no fear or aggression from anybody. I wouldn't leave her out there unattended until the hens are bigger than she is, but it looks like they are all going to be friends. A cat came into the yard and Lilly chased the cat away. So, a positive experience! Except they just about ruined the petunias, trampling them down with their big feet and eating all the blossoms. But I'm so happy to have chickens that I smiled.