Newbie 6 chicks Boise

[Odelia]

Thanks for your advice. I have been researching the web and books and speaking to experienced people. I am not going to just throw them altogether. I do not want what sometimes happens AND may happen to me one pet eats another pet. I do believe that dogs can and have been trained to herd and get along with other animals. I think it is possible and I also look at the pound for older dogs that say on their card among questions like gets along with kids "gets along with chickens". That be said I don't think that I would feel comfortable letting the hens out of the coop to range and NOT supervise said dog or puppy.
Interesting idea--not sure if I will try, the Animal Science teacher at my kids 9th-High School class said that he put the chickens on the puppy's head to imprint .... something like they are bigger or dominant.... He says his dog always just keeps his distance.

I don't think that we will be the type of people that will decide and come up with a puppy or older dog right away. Perhaps they will be pullets or hens before the dog arrives. I have at least 2 neighbors who have been successful. At the same time, I have a lot of anxieties.

I think the breed of dog is going to be important. Dogs that were bred to be hunting dogs and to retrieve birds will probably find it harder to see them as family members.

 

[Doublechick]

I have been reading about dogs and studying different professional opinions. I agree with you on the breed. And most dogs are bred to have a job. Perhaps (and I say this as a student of the subject) perhaps, all dogs behavior is better and more "teachable/trainable" when they have jobs or outlets that can suit their needs.

 

[rainbowhatchery]

welcome