Keep them in their run for now. Work on basic obedience first, especially recalls. A great way to practice recalls is for several family members to stand in a large circle and call the dog back and forth, rewarding when he comes. When he's caught on that coming means good things, put him on a long line and let him walk sort of near the run, and call him away, and reward. Do not use the long line to drag him to you, it's only to keep him from charging the run. You want the dog to come of his own volition, pulling them away does not teach them. Gradually, and only when you are successful at a distance, start getting closer, and keep up the call and reward, until he can be nose to fence and still call back to you 100% of the time. Keep rewarding him until you are at that point, then slowly wean off the treats. It is very important to be more enticing than the chickens, so use a really good reward, cooked chicken, liver, cheese are things that work well for me, but find what your dog likes best. Always be upbeat and playful, do not yell or act stern. Chasing chickens is very self rewarding, so you don't want him to ever get a chance to do that, or it could override all your training. Some dogs take longer than others, so be patient, and practice every day.
