Top Chicken Breeds to Keep as Pets
Are you looking for the perfect chicken breed to keep as a pet? The choice of a chicken breed for pets depends on various factors, including personality, friendliness, and ease of care. Below, we explore some of the best chicken breeds that make fantastic pets and why they are a great choice for both first-time and experienced backyard chicken keepers.
Recommended Chicken Breeds for Pets
Based on experience and feedback from various sites, some of the best chicken breeds to keep as pets are:
Australorps: Known for their friendly and docile nature, Australorps are excellent birds for those looking for a pet chicken. They are highly adaptable and easy to handle. Wyandottes: Another friendly breed, Wyandottes are well-liked for their beautiful plumage and easy-going personality. They are great for families and make excellent pets. Silkie: Silkie chickens are sweet and docile. They have a fluffy, feathered appearance, which adds to their charm. While some may be more spirited, they generally make wonderful pets. Speckled Sussex: Known for their friendly disposition and hardiness, Speckled Sussex are popular pets. They are active but easy to handle, making them an excellent choice for a variety of environments. Orpington: Orpingtons are known for their gentle and friendly nature. They come in various colors and sizes, making them a versatile choice for pet chickens. Golden Campine: Known for their friendly and docile nature, Golden Campines are a great choice for those who want a laid-back pet chicken. Easter Egger: Easter Eggers stand out for their beautiful blue or green eggs and friendly personalities. They are generally quite docile and make excellent pets. Partridge: With their unique plumage and friendly nature, Partridge chickens are a delightful addition to any pet chicken collection. White Bantam: Bantam chickens are smaller and easier to handle, making them a great choice for families and beginners. The White Bantam is known for its friendly disposition. Brahma: Despite their large size, Brahmas are incredibly docile and make excellent pets. They are often kept for their friendly nature and aesthetic appeal.A Note on Chicken Emotions and Affection
It is clear that chickens can experience emotions and feel affection towards their owners. Many community members of the Backyard Chicken group have shared their experiences, suggesting that chickens can feel a semblance of "love" or "affection" when interacting with their owners.
Specialized Chicken Breeds for Close Handling
Some breeds are naturally more adapted to frequent handling. The Aseel or Asil, originally from the Indian subcontinent, is a prime example. These chickens are bred to thrive in close confinement and are part of the household. They live very close to the family and are highly amenable to handling. It is important to note that while Aseels or Asils are excellent for close handling, they should be introduced gradually to maintain positive socialization.
For those looking for a more common and easily adaptable breed, the Rhode Island Reds are an excellent choice. They are known for their docile nature and ability to get along with all humans and animals. Rhode Island Reds are a breed I personally have experience with and would recommend, as they are hardworking and adaptable to various environments.
Conclusion
Choosing the right chicken breed for pets involves considering factors such as temperament, ease of care, and adaptability. Whether you are looking for a friendly and sweet Silkie, the easy-to-handle Orpington, or the adaptable Rhode Island Red, there is a breed out there that will make a great pet. Remember, each chicken has its unique personality, and it's important to spend time socializing and becoming familiar with your new feathered friend.
For more information on dogs and puppies, you can visit my profile. Happy chicken keeping!