[alfieairedale]

Hi everyone,
I have just set up a hen house and run in my back garden. The run is 9' x 3' with the house situated on top of the run.

My question is what breed of hens would be suitable - I also have two dogs (who cannot get to the run, but do tend to bark a lot at anything new in the garden). One an Airedale and the other a Wire Haired Fox Terrier.

Also what is the maximum number of birds for the size of the run.

Thanks for your help - much appreciated!

[bantam novice]

Hello and welcome to the forum 

I am not an expert however from what I have read on the forum the recommended minimum run space for one hen is 1 sq metre but preferably allow at least 2 sq metres.  You don't include the space for the coop and the feeders etc in the run space.

As for breeds you need to decide whether you are looking for meat birds, layers or all purpose.  Some breeds specialise as meat birds, some as layers and some, like light sussex, are dual purpose.

I am sure other people will chip in their advice, in the meantime good luck and let us know what you decide.

[alfieairedale]

Sorry, I should have said - I'm looking for Layers.
Thanks for your reply.