New Member.

[carolynmcm]

We have 11 chickens: one Barred Rock rooster, one older Black Copper Maran, 6 Wyandottes, 1 Dominique, 1 Easter Egger, and 1 Golden Buff. All but the old hen are 11 months old. We have our first broody hen which is why I joined this site. We live in upstate New York and want to get a mini Ausie Sheppard to train to herd chickens. Any suggestions?

 

[sourland]

Good morning, and welcome to BYC.

 

[Callender Girl]

Sounds like a beautiful flock.

Broody hens can be quite the characters. My frustrated Cochin girl sits on top of her coop and growls at me. She had been crowding her sister out of the nest box, breaking other chickens' eggs and trying to hatch three fake eggs. For a soft, fluffy girl, Ursula can be quite intimidating.

As far as training an Aussie, I have no helpful experience or tips.

Welcome to BYC! I'm sure someone here has the answers you're seeking.

 

[janiedoe]

Good morning, welcome to BYC!

 

[Obsessed With Silkies]

Welcome to BYC! So glad you could join us!

 

[DobieLover]

Hello, Carolyn, and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.
Where in Upstate? I think an Aussie might be a little intense to try to herd chickens.

 

[janiedoe]

I agree with @DobieLover
Chickens are easily stressed out. I think they prefer dogs who ignore them. Also, herding dogs have a tendency to nip the heels of their charges.
I just shake a bag of mealworms when I want my chickens to go back in their runs. The smart ones know what it means, and the rest follow.
Good luck with your flock!

 

[Grammy60]

Hello and welcome to BYC So happy you have joined our flock.

 

[Dr Evy]

Welcome to BYC Carolyn. We’re so glad you joined!

 

[Kenneth Zweerink]

Welcome to BackYard Chickens. The Best of Luck with your Flock! And a Big Hello from Eastern Nebraska.