What Duck Breed Would You Suggest?

[EggPlanter]

Hello, I don't mean to bother anyone or bum them out, but a couple nights ago my duckling was killed by my neighbour's dog. I am still upset about that, but am thinking to hatch more ducklings next year, and wanted to get an opinion on a breed. I've been thinking of getting Indian Runner Ducks. Any advice or opinions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[TLWR]

I have indian runners (and a welsh harlequin). Love the runners.

how did the neighbors dog get to your duckling? in the meantime, work on fixing that problem.

 

[EggPlanter]

Thanks for replying! I was free ranging them and left them unwatched for a little bit, because they are usually fine, but when I came out I found the neighbour's dog by the duck.

 

[Tevyes Dad]

You didn't state what you wanted the ducks for or how you wanted to relate to them. At this point my advice would be to read the reviews put up on backyard chickens by various members. Start off here:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/products/category/ducks

You can see pictures and read the pros and cons according to many people about many kinds of ducks.

Keep in mind some reviewers breed ducks some sell eggs and some just have pets.

 

[Amykins]

1. I hope your neighbors offered to compensate you.
2. Invest in a good fense, or keep a 12 gauge handy i case that wretched dog returns,
3. Did you only have one duckling?
4. Try the buy/sell/trade forum!

 

[EggPlanter]

You didn't state what you wanted the ducks for or how you wanted to relate to them.  At this point my advice would be to read the reviews put up on backyard chickens by various members. Start off here:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/products/category/ducks

You can see pictures and read the pros and cons according to many people about many kinds of ducks.   Keep in mind some reviewers breed ducks some sell eggs and some just have pets.

Will do, thanks!

 

[EggPlanter]

1. I hope your neighbors offered to compensate you.
2. Invest in a good fense, or keep a 12 gauge handy i case that wretched dog returns,
3. Did you only have one duckling?
4. Try the buy/sell/trade forum!

Yes I only had one duckling, but he was with my chickens.

 

[Amykins]

Yes I only had one duckling, but he was with my chickens.

Gotcha. Well...hmm. What kind of traits are you looking for in a duck? Eggs? Meat? Companionship? Face-melting adorableness that will make you smile every single time you look at them?

 

[EggPlanter]

Gotcha. Well...hmm. What kind of traits are you looking for in a duck? Eggs? Meat? Companionship? Face-melting adorableness that will make you smile every single time you look at them?

I am looking for a duck for companionship and hardiness because we have cold winters where I am, and would prefer them to be quiet if that is an option. To me every duck is adorable. Thanks!

 

[Amykins]

I am looking for a duck for companionship and hardiness because we have cold winters where I am, and would prefer them to be quiet if that is an option. To me every duck is adorable. Thanks!

Hm. I would recommend either pekins or muscovies. Muscovies are quietest, but both are very sweet-natured and hardy birds.