Friendliest Chicken Breeds

Chickens make great companions and can be wonderful helpers in teaching responsibility and care to kids. Of course, with any animal, some breeds are known to be more friendly with humans. Especially if it’s your first time caring for chickens, it’s never a bad idea to get some that you know have the reputation of being friendly. Outside of breed alone, there are quite a few factors that can help you raise the friendliest chickens. Below are some tips, as well as some great breeds to get you started!

Friendly Breeds

In no order, below are some breeds that are known for being extra friendly:

1. Silkies. Silkies are fluffy, friendly, and broody.
2. Buff Orpington. Buff Orpington chickens are quiet, affectionate, and excellent with children.
3. Speckled Sussex. Speckled Sussex chickens are calm, gentle, and curious.
4. Cochin. Cochin chickens are soft, extremely gentle, and friendly with other animals.
5. Rhode Island Red. Rhode Island Red Chickens are good natured, gentle, and have a penchant for producing eggs with double yolks.

Helpful Hints

With any chicken, the environment you cultivate for them is a strong factor in how they will turn out.  To begin your chicken journey, ensure you get top of the line supplies and toys for enrichment. Prepare your coop/brooder and designated chicken area for when your chicks arrive, and when you first bring them home let them be! Although you should speak to them in a soft voice, don’t pick them up; it’s better to let them get acclimated to their new home. After the first day or so, you can start putting some feed in your palm and let them eat while speaking to them. When they are older you can give them treats this way, too!

Here at Chickens for Backyards, we know and love our chickens, and we know you will too. To begin your chicken keeping journey, please visit us or call us at 888-831-1901.