Intro from Maine

[LDMOMMY]

I have already read a lot of those. We're ok with them escaping because we aren't planning on penning them unless it becomes necessary due to predation. We have 7 acres and my MIL has 11 across the street. The plan is to coop them at night and let them range in the day.
Thanks for the suggestions

 

[LDMOMMY]

The other piece I am hoping will help is that we have dogs who are allowed in and out as they choose. They are penned, so they won't chase any chickens, but they do bark at encroaching animals. Hoping that will help keep them away.
I've also heard of breeds of dogs that protect chickens, like the Great Pyrenees. I am not opposed to getting a dog for that job (whats ONE more animal? lol) but that particular breed is a little large for my taste. If anyone has other suggestions for that type of breed, I'm all ears.

 

[Michael OShay]

I've also heard of breeds of dogs that protect chickens, like the Great Pyrenees. I am not opposed to getting a dog for that job (whats ONE more animal? lol) but that particular breed is a little large for my taste. If anyone has other suggestions for that type of breed, I'm all ears.

Be very careful with any dog breed unless it's well trained. We've received numerous letters from new members who were shocked because their seemingly benign dogs (sometimes even small ones like chihuahuas) suddenly and unexpectedly decided to chase and kill their chickens. And once a dog has done this, it's next to impossible to break him from doing it again.

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC!

 

[ChickyChickens]

Welcome to BYC!!! There are loads of members on here…so if you have ANY questions…just ASK!!!

Hope you have loads of fun and all your answers answered here on BYC the BEST CHICKEN KEEPING FORUM on EARTH!!

 

[LDMOMMY]

thanks!