New to BYC

[kse67]

I just got 3 pullers that are about 12 weeks old. They have coop, food etc and have access to a fenced in area to free range as well. I have 2 dogs that can't seem to relax. They bark or stare at the chicken enclosure. It is the first day with the girls but I could use advice on this

 

[TwoCrows]

Welcome to BYC!

Congrats on the new pullets!! Most dogs see chickens as dinner. Every day there are threads in our emergency section on how "my dog ate my chickens". So your dogs will probably never stop barking at them. Do not let your birds free range with the dogs on the loose.

But if these are new birds as of today, you need to get the dogs out of there for a while. The dogs will stress the birds and they need to relax in their new home. You don't want to over stress your new birds. It take time even to get used to the new digs even in an area with out dogs. So let the pullets get some much needed rest and learn to enjoy their new home before you leave the dogs to stare at them.

Good luck with your new birds! You might want to go sit with them on their level, on the ground for 20 mins a day. Bring some treats with you and let them get used to you. Move slowly around them, talk quietly, try not to pick them up for a couple weeks and just enjoy them!

Enjoy your new babies and welcome to our flock!

 

[dawg53]

Welcome to BYC. Dogs + chickens = dead chickens

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC! You might want to check out some of the dog training threads on BYC, you might find some tips to help you with your dogs, ie www.backyardchickens.com/t/829562/training-teaching-a-dog-about-chickens

 

[kse67]

The dogs are starting to relax and ignore the chickens. The chickens seem to realize that the dogs can't get to them as the girls are totally fenced in.

My girls have taken to their coop very well. They are coming up to me now when I let them out of the coop and feed them. I have even been able to hand feed one if them using mealworms as a treat.

 

[drumstick diva]

 

[gander007]

 

[Michael OShay]

The dogs are starting to relax and ignore the chickens. The chickens seem to realize that the dogs can't get to them as the girls are totally fenced in.

My girls have taken to their coop very well. They are coming up to me now when I let them out of the coop and feed them. I have even been able to hand feed one if them using mealworms as a treat.

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad things are settling down with your dogs. What kind of chickens do you have?

 

[Mountain Peeps]

Welcome to BYC! Please make yourself at home and we are here to help.

Yes, be careful with dogs. Some won't bother the flock but usually they see them as any instant meal. Plus, the dog will stress the chickens out.

Here's a very helpful link about dogs and chickens.
http://www.fresh-eggs-daily.com/2012/11/basic-chicken-etiquette-for-family-dog.html