I personally wouldn't trust a dog alone with chooks - but as said, depends on the dog and the breed. You can get great chicken tractors for back yard set ups.
I would go for easy breeds - some nice cross breed layers.
You are best to buy point of lay hens which are almost fully grown, and take less looking after than chicks.
You will need secure housing - google chicken tractors and you will see some great ideas for small set ups.
Chickens need dry, draught free accomodation.
I would recommend 3 or 4 as hens like company, if you only get 2 and one dies (God forbid) one will be very lonely.
You will need good quality chicken feed - you can buy 20kg bags from pet supply stores for around $20 this will last for close to a month for 3 - 4 chookies so pretty cheap really.
I have 7 hens and get between 4-7 eggs most days. I don't actually sell mine but give them away to family and friends.
I love my chookies and have hatched babies as well so if you need any advice please ask and I will do my best to help! I also know a fantastic forum dedicated to backyard chook growing they have heaps of areas on setting up and raising hens if anyone would like the address pm me.
Last edited by Floweryfields; September 25th, 2010 at 02:32 PM.
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