[vichope74]

Yippee, my four lovely warrens arrived yesterday and they are gorgeous.  We have had 3 eggs already which I was very surprised about!  Unfortunately cant let them free range until Wednesday as the gate that the landlord was to put up will now not get done until then, so it is a small run for the time being.  My sons love them but unfortunately so does my wee dog (miniature wired haired dachschund) and can see a muzzle being ordered. 

What is the best way to introduce them- dogs and chickens?  Maybe Fingal (dog) will get more used to them in the run by Wednesday?

Other than that I am over the moon and completely understand why you are all so devoted to your chooks, the garden seems like a much nicer place with them in it and I love the little noises they make.

[cluckingnuts]

It won't be long before their characters start to come out, then you will become addicted. As for the dog, remember he was there first so make a fuss of him so he doesn't become jealous.

[Jeanette]

I have 3 dogs and they are terified of the chickens. One day i had a chicken on my lap and the dogs came over to have a look befor i could do anything the chicken had streched out her neck and gave each dog a peck. The dogs now keep their distance.

[fastmonkey85]

Its good to hear that you are happy with them. I'm sure they will bring you many hours of happiness. Post some pictures so we can see what they look like?

Alex

[Neil Doncaster]

we have just been to pick upour girlsthey are ex battery hens they look a sorry sight at the moment but it won't be long before they feather up.within a few hours of getting them their natural instict has kicked in and they are scratching around in the soil, we are so glad we got them and i would recommened anyone who is thinking about getting some hens to get ex batts it gives them a much better quality of life.

[lucylou]

hi! congratu;lations on your new arrivals my little jack russell would sit and watch my hens through the wire with her mouth watering and quivering with excitement. she doesnt take much notice of them now - unless they flap or squark but i know she would kill them in a jiffy given half the chance so mine are in a permanent enclosure now  good luck with your girls and may they give you endless amusement and eggs!

[pawsnclaws]

never ever trust the dog near the chickens is my advice mine had 2 of mine never killed then just got hold of them was my fault both times but i would never ever trust then near chicks

[dizzylizzie]

my dog is an angel with them. I can trust him with anything. Even tho he is always with me when we go in the garden with the chickens, i would never leave him alone with them. one of out chickens makes a bee-line for him every time and pecks his nose, he has never even growled at her to warn her off. He is the gentlest dog i have ever met, and he seems to know he has to 'watch' over them. He checks for eggs all the time, if we have a sick one in the house he dosent leave their side, a new one is always introduced to him first so he knows its 'ours', and he happily shares his food with them if they are given half a chance, but i would still never leave him alone because it still only takes the once. Sounds like i dont trust him, i do , but he is still a domestic wolf.....