Funny farm poodle harmony?

[HeadHen]

We are currently raising 26 chicks in a garage brooder till their outside coop and run are finished. My daughter has a rescued miniature poodle (not the little teacup version, this girl is wacky, surprisingly sturdy, and active!). My question is,

Does anyone know how poodles are with chickens?
Is she more likely to be protective over them, or eat them?

 

[arlee453]

Assume she will want to eat them... at least until they are bigger than she is!

There have been plenty of 'oh I would have never though my ______ (enter small breed of dog here) would have EVER killed my chickens...'

Better safe than sorry - always supervise the dog around the chickens - especially when they are little and even when they grow larger until you know how she will act around them.

 

[scooter147]

Keep in mind that the Standard Poodle was originally bred as a retriever.
She may have some, all be it, probably a small amount of that instinct still in her.
I would simple sit with her by the chicks and give her attention. Pick a chick up and let her smell it and give positive praise. If she trys to mouth it or snaps at it tell her no in a firm voice or a little swat on the nose.
When the chicks graduate to to the coop put the dog on the leash and let her walk into the coop with you and do the chores with you.
I have had chickens and dogs for over 35 years and with the exception of a particular beagle I have never had an issue with my dogs killing chickens.
I think by doing the above you are demenstrating to the dog that the chickens belong to you and that they are part of the "pack" and are not dinner or play toys.

 

[MissPrissy]

I have 2 toy poodles. The female has a far bigger prey drive than the male.

 

[Maryallison77]

Awwwww, wish I could be more help. I do have a poodle, but he is 10 years old now. We just got the chickens and my Buster just lays there and looks at them. He could care less about them. You would have to be more careful with a fiesty younger poodle though!Good luck!