I have two free range, Buff Orpington hens as of last month when a dog nabbed up the third one
I am concerned that if something were to happen to one of the two, the other would get lonely. So, I plan on getting three chicks in February or March. I am wondering on how and when to introduce the new ones to the flock. They will probably not be Buff Orpingtons. Does it matter if they are a different breed? does it make it harder for them to establish a pecking order? And at what age should I permanently introduce them to the flock? should I let them see each other before they go to live in the coop? Gah, so many questions. My Buffs are the sweetest things in the world, but I don't want to offset the balance too much.
Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks!