If you’re looking for a loyal companion that also provides fresh eggs, chickens could be the perfect addition to your household. But with so many breeds available, it can be difficult to know which ones are the best chickens for pets and eggs.
Before making a decision, it’s important to consider factors such as the size of your backyard or living space, how much time you can commit to caring for them, and what type of climate you live in. Some breeds require more attention and space than others, and some are better suited for colder or hotter climates.
Additionally, it’s helpful to research the temperament, egg-laying frequency, and size of each breed before making a choice. Some breeds, such as the Rhode Island Red, are known for their friendly and curious personalities, while others may be more skittish. Consider the size of the eggs as well, as some breeds produce jumbo-sized eggs while others may lay smaller sizes.
If you’re still unsure which breed to choose, ask yourself some questions. Are you looking for a social chicken that enjoys human interaction? Or are you more focused on egg production and abundance? Are you willing to handle occasional broodiness, or do you want a low-maintenance bird? By answering these questions, you can narrow down your options and find the best chickens for pets and eggs that suit your individual needs.
10 Best Chickens For Pets And Eggs
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Ideal as high-protein treat for various animals including reptiles, birds, poultry, and amphibians.
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This product is ideal for providing comfortable nesting options for chickens in a coop or hen house.
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The CountryMax Hen Egg Layer Pellet 16% Chicken Feed is ideal for feeding chickens that lay eggs.
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The product is ideal for keeping chickens as pets and providing a secure living space in the backyard.
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The product is ideal for keeping chickens and providing an outdoor run area for them.
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The product is ideal for housing chickens, rabbits, and other small pets in a backyard setting with an egg box.
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It is ideal for providing comfortable and hygienic bedding for chickens in most nesting boxes.
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The product is ideal for keeping chickens and poultry in an outdoor pen, but does not include a chicken coop.
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Brothers Complete Chicken Meal and Egg Formula, 25-Pound is ideal for pets as a nutritious source of protein and vitamins.
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Ideal for puppies with food sensitivities, as it is a grain-free limited ingredient diet featuring real chicken, lentils, and whole egg.
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1. Mealworm Medley: 10lbs Of Reptile-Friendly Protein
PTCOM BY HATORTEMPT offers a premium quality product that stands for 100% organic natural dried mealworms with extra protein. Their 10lbs bulk bag for chickens is free from any additives, preservatives, and GMOs, making it a top choice for poultry and reptile owners in the USA.
These dried mealworms are healthy and tasty, and every link undergoes a thorough check in the production process to ensure that each worm is raised on high-quality feed in good conditions. The worms are quick-dried to ensure they are crisp and fragrant, maximizing the flavor as tasty treats for chickens.
PTCOM BY HATORTEMPT's mealworms are an excellent source of food, rich in protein (52%), fat (20%), fiber (10%), vitamins, and top-grade edible oils. They are the perfect feed for bluebirds and other wild birds, laying hens, ducks, geese, turkeys, pigeons, lizards, turtles, fishes, and amphibians.
Their bulk package comes in a convenient resealable zip top bag to ensure that the mealworms stay fresh longer and won't spoil. The 10lbs package is easy to store and affordable, and no refrigeration is necessary for these worms.
Birds love these organic delicious mealworms treats, whether you want your chickens to come running or are looking to attract more bluebirds. PTCOM BY HATORTEMPT guarantees customer satisfaction, and if you or your hens aren't satisfied with the product, they offer a refund.
2. Miller Nesting Boxes For Cozy Chicken Homes.
Looking for a durable and functional nesting box for your chickens? Look no further than this washable and heavy-duty covered nesting box! Made to mount easily to studs 16" on center, this nesting box is also versatile enough to be mounted to plywood or similar surfaces.
With its large size, this nesting box is perfect for accommodating all breeds of chickens. And with its easy-to-clean design, you'll be able to keep your chickens' living space fresh and hygienic with minimal effort.
Best of all, this nesting box is available at the lowest price on Amazon – period. So why wait? Upgrade your chickens' home today with this reliable and affordable nesting box!
3. Countrymax Hen Egg Layer Pellet 16% Chicken Feed 50 Pounds
This product offers a complete and balanced diet specifically tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of laying hens. With a high protein content of 16%, it is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals that promote hen health and egg production.
Not only does this feed support egg production, but it also supports overall hen health. The product is a complete layer feed, so there is no need for additional supplementation.
To ensure optimal results, it is recommended to feed this product as the sole ration starting at 16 weeks of age. This product is proudly made in the USA and has a guaranteed analysis of 16% protein, 2.5% fat, and 7% fiber.
This complete layer feed is an excellent choice for those who want to provide their hens with a nutritious and balanced diet that supports overall health and egg production. It is easy to use and can be fed as the sole ration, providing convenience and peace of mind. With its high protein content and essential vitamins and minerals, this feed can help ensure that your hens stay healthy and produce high-quality eggs.
4. Ecolinear Wooden Chicken Coop With Nest Box
This Poultry Hutch is designed to provide a comfortable and safe living space for your feathered friends. Made from solid and rain-resistant fir wood, this coop is both durable and weatherproof. The environmental paint coating ensures that the hutch is waterproof and protected from the sun's rays. The green asphalt sloping roof also helps to prevent water penetration.
The coop features a sliding door and ramp, allowing your poultry to easily enter the raised housing area. The timber ridges above the ramp provide extra protection against slipping. Your birds can also lay their eggs in the nesting box, which is conveniently located in the hutch.
Cleaning the hutch is made easy with the removable bottom sliding tray. The heavy-duty galvanized wire fencing provides ventilation for your poultry while also protecting them from outside predators.
The main poultry house is elevated to prevent damage from wet conditions. This attaches to a wide open fenced enclosure that allows your birds plenty of room to move around. With overall dimensions of 80.7"L x 26"W x 44.5"H, the Poultry Hutch can comfortably hold 2-4 chickens.
Assembling the coop is a breeze with the clear manual provided. If you have any questions or concerns, our excellent customer service team is available to assist you 24/7. In the unlikely event of any missing or damaged parts during shipping, please contact us first and provide pictures of the damaged part. We are committed to resolving any issues to your satisfaction, whether through replacement at no charge or a discount. Choose this Poultry Hutch for a durable and safe living space for your feathered friends.
5. Trixie Pet Products Chicken Coop With Outdoor Run, 66.75 X 30.25 X 41.25 Inches
This product is perfect for those who want to keep chickens in their backyard. It is designed to accommodate two standard size chickens or four bantams. The package may arrive in separate boxes due to its size and weight.
This chicken coop features a nesting house with a hinged roof and removable divider, providing a comfortable space for the chickens to lay eggs. The sleeping house also has a hinged roof and a removable roosting pole, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance.
To ensure the safety of the chickens, there is a sliding door at the top of the ramp that can restrict access to the coop. This feature is particularly useful in preventing predators from getting in and harming the chickens.
The chicken coop measures at 66.75 x 30.25 x 41.25 inches, making it a suitable size for most backyards. The dimensions of the coop provide enough space for the chickens to move around and stretch their wings.
6. Bestpet 66 Inch Wood Chicken Coop Hen House Pet Rabbit Hutch Wooden Pet Cage Backyard With Egg Box
This chicken coop is an ideal space for your feathered friends to play and live in. It is designed to provide your chickens with a warm and cozy home that they deserve. The spacious design features an elevated coop with a nesting box and an enclosed run. This not only provides a playground for your chicken but also serves as a good helper for you.
Crafted from solid rain-resistant fir wood, this chicken coop is durable and weatherproof. It is also painted with an environmentally friendly coating that keeps the poultry hutch waterproof and ensures that it can withstand the sun's rays. The green asphalt sloping roof is designed to protect your chickens from water penetration.
The chicken house is elevated, which prevents any damage from wet conditions. It attaches to a wide open fenced enclosure that allows your chickens plenty of room to move around. With overall dimensions of 66"L x 51"W x 40"H, this coop can hold up to 2-4 chickens.
The large activity space with three opening doors makes it easier for your lovely pets to come in and out. The multi-door design also helps you interact with your pets and makes it easier to clean the hutch. This coop is designed with humanized features that prioritize your convenience.
Setting up this chicken coop is simple, with an overall structure that is easy to assemble. We recommend using an electronic drill for assembly, and the estimated assembly time is about 20 minutes. The removable tray makes it easier for you to clean the hutch, ensuring a comfortable living experience for your pets.
7. Cluck Comfort: Premium Nesting Pads For Chickens
The Petmate Nesting Pads are designed to provide a clean, dry surface for fresh chicken eggs. Made with thin wood shavings that draw moisture to the pad's paper backing, these pads ensure that the eggs stay clean and dry. The soft yet sturdy nesting box pads encourage chickens to lay eggs in a single place, making it easy for farmers to collect and manage their eggs.
These nesting pads are compatible with Petmate Chicken Coop nesting boxes and most standard nesting boxes, making them a versatile choice for all types of chicken coops. The wood shavings on the surface of these chicken nesting pads can be easily modified by hens while still holding shape, providing a flexible nesting material for the chickens.
The cushioned surface of the Petmate Nesting Pads ensures comfortable chicken nesting and protects eggs from breakage. This reduces the likelihood of broken eggs, saving farmers time and money. Additionally, the pads are 100% compostable, made from biodegradable materials that can be safely composted after use for sustainable farming or gardening.
Each pack of Petmate Nesting Pads includes 10 pads, each measuring 13 inches square. These nesting pads are sustainably sourced from 100% Great Lakes Aspen and made in the USA, ensuring that they are of the highest quality.
8. Chick Haven: 8ft Walk-In Chicken Run
The OverEZ Walk-in Chicken Run is an excellent product for chicken owners who want to provide their feathered friends with ample space to move around and breathe in fresh air. Measuring 8 feet in length, this outdoor pen offers a standing room for you to tend to your flock comfortably. The spacious design makes cleaning up after your hens a breeze, ensuring a hygienic living environment.
The chicken run boasts excellent ventilation, which allows the chickens to enjoy the warmth of the sun and breathe in fresh air all day long. When placed over grass, the pen provides a natural feel of freedom for the chickens as they roam about. The woven steel construction makes it sturdy and durable, ensuring that predators are kept at bay. The interlocking-pole system makes it easy to assemble, and the package comes with all the necessary parts for quick and easy setup.
Keeping the chicken run clean is effortless, thanks to the pre-painted design that maintains a comfortable environment for your flock. Simply wipe it down with a wet cloth, or rinse it with running water to keep it looking like new. The package includes an adapter that fits the chicken run onto any of the OverEZ Chicken Coops, ensuring that your hens stay safe and secure.
9. Brothers Complete Chicken Meal And Egg Formula, 25-Pound
Looking for a high-quality pet food that is both nutritious and delicious? Look no further than this grain-free and white potato-free option, which is specially formulated for pets with sensitive stomachs or food allergies.
Featuring GMO-free and human-grade proteins, this pet food is made with over 90% animal proteins, ensuring that your furry friend gets the nutrients they need to stay healthy and energized. Whether you have a puppy, adult dog, or senior pooch, this pet food is a great choice for providing them with the protein, vitamins, and minerals they need to thrive.
One of the key benefits of this pet food is that it is free from grains and white potatoes, which can be difficult for some pets to digest. Instead, it is made with a variety of nutritious and flavorful ingredients, including high-quality meats, vegetables, and fruits.
In addition to being grain-free and potato-free, this pet food is also free from GMOs, ensuring that your pet is not exposed to potentially harmful chemicals or additives. And with human-grade proteins, you can feel confident that your pet is getting the best possible nutrition.
So why wait? If you're looking for a high-quality pet food that your furry friend will love, look no further than this grain-free, potato-free, and GMO-free option. With over 90% animal proteins and a variety of nutritious ingredients, it's the perfect choice for pets of all ages and sizes.
10. Limited Ingredient Chicken Puppy Food – Grain Free!
The Canidae Pure Real Chicken, Lentil and Whole Egg Recipe Dry Dog Food for Puppies is an excellent choice for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, nutritious and balanced diet for their furry friend. This product is designed to provide complete and balanced goodness for growing puppies.
Crafted with real chicken as the first ingredient, this dry dog food is paired with other whole ingredients such as lentils, peas and dried whole egg to provide a healthy meal for your pup. The recipe is made using only 9 or fewer key ingredients that are easily recognizable, making it perfect for sensitive dogs.
This product is formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin and coat. With Canidae Pure Real Chicken, Lentil and Whole Egg Recipe Dry Dog Food for Puppies, pet owners can rest assured that their furry friend is getting the best possible nutrition.
Canidae is committed to creating a world of goodness for pets and the planet. This brand uses premium proteins and regeneratively farmed ingredients to nourish pets and the planet in every bowl, setting a new standard for pet food. Every bowl of Canidae Pure Real Chicken, Lentil and Whole Egg Recipe Dry Dog Food for Puppies is full of goodness, making it an ideal choice for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality and sustainable pet food option.
Best Chickens For Pets And Eggs FAQs
Are there any health concerns I should be aware of when keeping chickens as pets and for eggs?
Yes, there are some health concerns that you should be aware of when keeping chickens as pets and for eggs. One of the main concerns is the risk of Salmonella infection. Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning and is commonly found in poultry, including chickens. To reduce the risk of Salmonella infection, it is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling chickens, eggs, or anything that has been in contact with them.
Another health concern is the risk of respiratory infections, such as avian influenza and Newcastle disease. These diseases can be transmitted through the air or by direct contact with infected chickens. To prevent the spread of these diseases, it is important to keep your chickens in a clean and dry environment, avoid contact with wild birds, and practice good biosecurity measures.
Additionally, some people may have allergies to chicken feathers or dust, which can cause respiratory problems. If you or anyone in your household has allergies, it is important to take this into consideration before keeping chickens as pets or for eggs. Overall, with proper care and attention to hygiene and biosecurity measures, the health risks associated with keeping chickens can be minimized.
Can I keep different breeds of chickens together in the same coop for pets and egg production?
Yes, it is possible to keep different breeds of chickens together in the same coop for both pets and egg production. However, there are some things to consider before doing so. Firstly, you need to make sure that the chickens are compatible with each other in terms of temperament and size. Some breeds are more aggressive than others and may bully smaller or gentler breeds. Additionally, the coop should be spacious enough to accommodate all the chickens comfortably.
It is also important to note that different breeds may have different egg-laying patterns and nutritional requirements. Therefore, you need to make sure that all the chickens are getting the right feed and supplements to ensure optimal health and egg production. It may also be helpful to provide separate nesting boxes for each breed to prevent competition for nesting space.
Overall, with proper planning and management, it is possible to keep multiple breeds of chickens together in the same coop for pets and egg production.
How many chickens should I have to ensure consistent egg production?
The number of chickens you need to ensure consistent egg production depends on several factors. The first factor is the size of your flock and the amount of space they have to roam around. A general rule of thumb is that one chicken needs approximately 2-3 square feet of space in a coop, and 8-10 square feet of space in an outdoor run. If you have limited space, you may need to keep a smaller number of birds.
The second factor is the breed of chicken. Some breeds are better layers than others, and some will lay more consistently than others. For example, the Leghorn breed is known for producing large numbers of eggs consistently, while some heritage breeds may only lay eggs seasonally.
Finally, you should consider the age of your chickens. Most hens will start laying eggs at around 5-6 months old, and will continue to lay eggs for 2-3 years before their egg production starts to decline.
In general, if you want to ensure consistent egg production, it's a good idea to start with at least 3-4 hens. This will give you a good number of eggs to collect each week, while still allowing each bird enough space and resources to thrive.
What are some common behavioral issues that chickens may exhibit and how do I address them?
Chickens, like any other animal, can exhibit a variety of behavioral issues. Some of the common ones include feather pecking, aggressive behavior, and egg-eating. Feather pecking can be caused by overcrowding, boredom, or lack of proper nutrition. To address this issue, provide enough space for the chickens to move around, offer them toys to play with, and ensure that they have a balanced diet.
Aggressive behavior can be seen in roosters, especially during the breeding season. To address this issue, separate the aggressive rooster from the rest of the flock or consider getting rid of him altogether. Egg-eating is a common issue that can be caused by a lack of calcium or boredom. Provide enough calcium for the chickens and collect eggs frequently to prevent them from getting bored and breaking the eggs.
Another issue that can be seen in chickens is bullying. This can be caused by the presence of a dominant hen or a lack of socialization. To address this issue, ensure that the chickens have enough space to move around, provide enough food and water sources, and consider adding new chickens to the flock to balance the social hierarchy.
What are the best breeds of chickens for both pets and egg production?
When it comes to choosing chickens for pets and egg production, there are several breeds that stand out. The most popular breed for this purpose is the Rhode Island Red, which is known for its hardiness and ability to produce a large number of eggs. Another great breed is the Leghorn, which is a prolific layer and has a friendly personality, making it a great choice for a pet. The Plymouth Rock is another breed to consider, as it is known for its docile temperament and high egg production. The Australorp is also a great choice, as it is a dual-purpose breed that is both friendly and produces a large number of eggs. Lastly, the Sussex is a great option for those looking for a pet-friendly breed that also lays a good number of eggs. Ultimately, the best breed of chicken for pets and egg production will depend on your specific needs and preferences, but these breeds are a great place to start.
What do I need to know about egg production and how to collect eggs?
Egg production is an essential part of poultry farming. If you are planning to start a small-scale or commercial egg production, there are a few things that you need to know. Firstly, you need to have the right breed of chicken that is suitable for egg production. Breeds like Leghorn, Sussex, and Plymouth Rock are good egg layers. Next, you need to provide them with a comfortable and clean environment, adequate food and water, and proper lighting. The ideal temperature for egg production is between 15 to 20 degrees Celsius.
When it comes to collecting eggs, it is important to do it regularly, preferably twice a day, to ensure that they are fresh and clean. Use clean and well-ventilated egg containers to store the eggs. To collect eggs, gently lift the chicken and reach under her to retrieve the eggs. Be careful not to drop or crack the eggs during the collection process. It is important to wash the eggs before storing them to remove any dirt or bacteria that may be on the shell. However, it is not recommended to wash the eggs with water that is colder than the eggs, as this can cause bacteria to be drawn into the egg. Finally, store the eggs in a cool and dry place to ensure their freshness and quality.
What is the average lifespan of chickens kept as pets and for egg production?
The average lifespan of chickens kept as pets and for egg production can vary depending on several factors such as breed, living conditions, diet, and healthcare. In general, most breeds of chickens can live up to 8-10 years, but their egg production usually declines after the first 2-3 years. Some breeds, like Leghorns, are known for their high egg production but have a shorter lifespan of around 4-5 years.
Proper care and attention can help extend the lifespan of backyard chickens. This includes providing a clean and spacious living area, a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs, access to fresh water, and regular veterinary check-ups. It's also important to protect them from predators and keep them safe from extreme weather conditions.
Overall, providing a healthy and happy environment for chickens can lead to a longer and more productive life. It's important to keep in mind that chickens are living creatures and require proper care and attention to thrive.
What size coop is best for chickens that are kept as pets and for eggs?
When it comes to choosing the right chicken coop size for pets and egg-laying, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, the size of the coop should be proportional to the number of chickens you have. As a general rule of thumb, each chicken should have at least 4 square feet of space inside the coop. This means that a coop designed for 4 chickens should be at least 16 square feet in size.
Additionally, it's important to consider the size of the outdoor run. Chickens need plenty of space to move around and engage in natural behaviors like scratching and dust bathing. A good rule of thumb is to provide at least 10 square feet of outdoor space per chicken.
Lastly, consider the height of the coop. Chickens need enough headroom to move around comfortably and roost at night. A minimum of 2 feet of headroom is recommended for most breeds.
Overall, a coop size of 16-20 square feet with an outdoor run of 40-50 square feet should provide ample space for 4-5 pet chickens to live comfortably and produce plenty of eggs.
What type of feed is best for chickens that are kept as pets and for eggs?
When it comes to choosing the best feed for chickens that are kept as pets and for eggs, there are a number of factors to consider. The most important factor is to ensure that the feed you choose is nutritionally balanced and provides all the nutrients that your chickens need to lay healthy eggs. A good quality layer feed that is specifically formulated for egg-laying chickens is a great option. This type of feed typically contains the right amount of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients that are needed for healthy egg production.
In addition to layer feed, you can also supplement your chickens' diet with fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as treats like mealworms or scratch grains. However, it's important to keep in mind that treats should only make up a small portion of your chickens' diet, as feeding too many treats can lead to health problems.
Ultimately, the best feed for chickens that are kept as pets and for eggs will depend on a variety of factors, including the age and breed of your chickens, as well as their individual needs and preferences. Consulting with a poultry nutrition expert can be a great way to ensure that you are providing your chickens with the best possible diet.
Which chickens are known for their friendly and social personalities?
There are several breeds of chickens that are known for their friendly and social personalities. One of the most popular breeds is the Buff Orpington. These chickens are known for being docile, friendly, and easy to handle, making them a popular choice for backyard flocks. Another breed that is known for its friendly demeanor is the Rhode Island Red. These birds are known for being curious and outgoing, and they often enjoy interacting with their human caretakers. Silkies are another breed of chicken that is known for their friendly and social personalities. These birds are often described as "lap chickens" because they enjoy cuddling and being held. Other friendly breeds include the Australorp, Sussex, and Plymouth Rock. When selecting chickens for your flock, it's important to consider their temperament and socialization needs to ensure that they will be happy and healthy in their new home.