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The Dominique breed has a vague history. It is believed that they were developed in England and came to America with the pilgrims sometime during the colonization of America. They are known for being Americas 1st breed and are commonly referred to as “Dominikers”. Dominique chickens were admitted to the American Standard of Perfection in 1874.
The popularity of this breed has been a roller coaster over the years. They were the most popular breed in America until the mid 19th century. They survived the Great Depression of the 1930s most likely due to their ability to self sustain. It was at this point in history where this bird almost became extinct because the popularity switched to the Barred Rock. In 1970 there were only 4 known flocks that were owned by Henry Miller, Edward Uber, Robert Henderson, and Carl Gallaher. These men agreed to participate in breed rescue and from 1983-2006 the popularity of the Dominique has steadily increased to the point where currently they are only on The Livestock Conservancy watch list. However, in 2007 a study found that the popularity was beginning to decrease again, most likely due to older breeders not being involved in the process.
The Dominique chicken has a beautiful tight plumage that aids them in the winter so that they do not become frostbite. The pattern of their plumage is also known as hawk coloring making them a great predator resistant bird for the family who would like to let their birds’ free-range. The Dominique chicken is also an easy bird to show, which makes it a great choice for your FFA or 4-H student. The Dominique chicken produces so many feathers that some people use them to make pillows or featherbeds.
If you are looking for an excellent dual-purpose bird then the Dominique is the bird for you. They grow to nice size weight and are dependable, hardy layers even in marginal weather. This chicken is an excellent forager and very easy to care for. The hens are also known for being broody, for the family who would like to have the experience of hatching eggs. Although they are very cold hardy, the Dominique chicken adapts well to hot and humid climates too.
The Dominique chicken is known for its docile temperament. The hens are very gentle but the roosters are sometimes known for being aggressive toward other roosters and even humans. Some people say that the roosters have even killed small rodents and snakes. For the most part, however, the Dominique is a calm bird that would make a great family backyard chicken.
| Egg Color | Brown | Hardiness | Very Cold Hardy |
| Egg Size | Medium | Broody | Yes |
| Egg Production | Good | Hen Weight | 7 lbs |
| Personality | Calm and Gentle | Rooster Weight | 8 lbs |
Live Chick Guarantee
We guarantee your ordered number of birds arrive healthy and true to breed. Please contact us immediately should any losses or variances to your order occur, this guarantee is only for the safe and live delivery of your poultry. Any loss must be reported to Chickens for Backyards within 3 days of receipt for any adjustment to be made. Reshipments are subject to availability and minimum shipping requirements. If eligible, we will reship only once. Reimbursements are limited to the cost of the birds and will not include shipping charges.
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Kate Turner –
Good layers but a bit aggressive
The two Dominiques we got were healthy and happy chicks and arrived on time, as did my other 6 chicks. As time went by they were the first to lay eggs, a big plus for them! However, from the start I have noticed that they are the most forward and aggressive towards me when I enter the barnyard. They are the only ones who want to jump up when I come in to give them treats, and they seem to want to challenge me every time I come in. I won’t order any more of them, but I must say they are pretty consistent and good layers. They are only 6 months old, so I hope it doesn’t get worse as time goes by (the challenging).
Brandy Spadafore –
Dominique Chickens are great
We ordered our first chickens ever last spring and ordered all Dominiques we love them. Our sons love them and take care of them for the most part. They have been the best starter chickens. We will eventually get more.
Gregory Martin –
Great foragers
I use neither pesticide nor herbicide on my property and ticks can be a major problem. My four Dominique hens and rooster are the solution. Although I regularly have to remind the rooster who’s boss I find the hens to be endearingly forward. Sometimes they hop up onto the feeder tray while it’s still in my hand. They are quite entertaining.