New coop help

[chynasparks]

You mentioned that your chickens can't free range. Are they in a pen of some kind? Do you have an enclosed run attached? I don't know what kind of dogs you have but chickens are at the low end of the food chain so a dog has instinks to go after them. They can be trained, taught that these birds are "part of the family". Dogs, cats, raccoons, skunks, owls, hawks all are predators to chickens and/or their eggs. It sounds like an enclosed run would solve a lot of problems at least until everyone gets to know each other. We made one with 2 cattle panels, and 2x6 lumber. That's another thing you can google and get an idea. You can click on my photo album and see the cattle panel whoop run with my peeps in it. I'm afraid your dogs might inadvertently hurt your hens before they learn "NO"

 

[dandan111]

I just dragged the coop out of the fenced in yard and the dog (westy) has calmed a bit. I was hoping to be able to let the chickens out in our fenced yard. Looks like that may not happen. If the dogs can't settle soon the chickens may have to go. This sucks.

 

[chynasparks]

Oh I really hate to hear that. Can you attach an enclosed area to the coop for them to come out? They are enjoyable to watch. Once you get their habitat set up they are not that hard to care for. But chickens aren't for everyone. Better to find out with just 2 peeps. Dogs, peeps and people can live together with a little time and patients. I'm sorry it's been so stressful for you.

 

[dandan111]

Thanks Cyna. The chickens have a enclosed area and they seem fine. It's the dog that's crazy. Chickens are out and scratching like pros. I hope the dog can adjust soon. On the plus side the coop is right outside garage now.

 

[chynasparks]

That's good. I have 2 small dogs. My chihuahua mix barks at the peeps, at everything lol. My rat terrier is curious. They can't get to them. I really do hope everything works out for you