Help- Need to keep chickens out of MY house

[GretaG]

This is what I came home at lunch today. I know it's super cute, and I love these little girls. We got them in February, and they are an absolute joy. Except, I can't keep them out of the house. We have a geriatric basset hound who needs to have access to the back yard any time (Or I am cleaning up dog poo instead of chicken poo)

When we are home and they come in all we have to do is say " No chickens in the house" and they leave. But when we are away at work...well you can see the shenanigans.

The cat is no help either, he runs from them and they chase him all over the yard.

I am looking for any help, old wives tales, anything. Kinda like snails an copper wire, or vampires and garlic. Is there something that chickens won't cross?

 

[the3ofus+oursixchicks]

how are they getting inside your home if your not there to let them in?

 

[appps]

I'm guessing you are leaving a door open for your dog. Have you thought about installing a doggy door for him instead. I don't think chickens would be strong enough to open those.

 

[centrarchid]

We have had same problem with a flock that roosted on front porch. We kept front door open much of time so dogs could get in and out, especially at night. Juveniles and hen with chicks where most inclined to come inside. To fix that plus energy loss mosquitos we installed a dog door as part of front door lower panel. Dogs and cats use that but chickens have not figured it out yet. Energy and mosquito improvements alone justified change.

 

[GretaG]

We have to leave the screen doors open for the dog. This old dog won't learn a new trick, and refuses to use a dog door. Like I said she is geriatric, and we are surprised she is still with us. I guess we just have to wait for her to pass, so we can close the screens.

 

[kmart]

Having the same challenge except mine are getting in thru the cat flap / dog door! Is there a way to un-teach them?

 

[lovesfarms]

I know this thread is old but your white chicken is a splitting image of mine. What ever did you do? Mine are both Easter eggers. If I lock them out, they sit outside the dentist window watching the patients.