Grandma Bea Scattered Grain for Her Hens. One Member of the Flock Had a Collar On.
A small, busy flock of hens pecks at the scattered grain, their feathers ranging from rusty brown to speckled black and white. Grandma Bea bends low in her chunky oatmeal cardigan, sprinkling feed from her fingertips with a warm, amused smile. Right in the middle of the chickens stands Dumpling, his white head lowered to their level, brown collar around his neck, watching the pecking with deep interest but not a hint of mischief. A lamp glows in the background, a wicker basket sits by the door, and a plaid blanket hangs over a chair in the cozy, slightly cluttered space.
Dogs and backyard chickens can live together peacefully, but it takes some training and supervision. Breeds with a lower prey drive, like many Bulldogs, often adapt well, especially when introduced to the birds calmly and on a leash at first. Rewarding gentle, quiet behavior around the flock helps a lot. Keep chicken feed out of your dog's reach, since it is not made for dogs and can cause stomach upset. Chickens can carry germs like salmonella, so washing hands after handling them, and keeping your dog from eating droppings, are both good habits.
Dumpling seems to have accepted his role as honorary member of the flock. The hens are too busy eating to mind him, and Grandma Bea looks delighted by the peaceful little gathering. Feeding time is clearly a group activity in this house.
