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Best Chicken Breed For Pets (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a new pet to add to your family, why not consider a chicken? Not only are they friendly and fun to watch, but they also provide a steady supply of fresh eggs. But before you go out and buy your new feathered friend, there are a few factors you should consider.

Firstly, you should think about the size of your yard or living space. Different breeds of chickens have different space requirements, so make sure you choose a breed that will be comfortable in your home. You’ll also need to consider your lifestyle – if you don’t have a lot of time to dedicate to chicken care, you’ll want a breed that’s low-maintenance.

Next, you’ll want to think about what you want from your chickens. Are you looking for a breed that’s known for its egg-laying abilities? Or are you more interested in a breed that’s friendly and sociable? There are hundreds of different chicken breeds to choose from, so it’s important to do your research and choose a breed that will suit your needs.

If you’re still unsure about whether a chicken would be the right pet for you, ask yourself these questions: Do I have the time and resources to care for a chicken? What kind of care do chickens require? Will my family be comfortable living with a chicken? By considering these questions, you can make an informed decision about whether a chicken would be the right pet for you.

10 Best Chicken Breed For Pets

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for large breed dogs with joint health concerns, featuring a shredded blend chicken and rice formula in a 34 lb bag.
2
This product is ideal for large breed dogs, providing a natural and complete diet made with chicken and rice.
3
Ideal for large breed dogs with high protein needs and digestive issues, formulated with chicken and rice.
4
Ideal for Large Breed Puppies, this high-protein dog food contains a trio of proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon.
5
This product is ideal for small breed adult dogs who prefer natural ingredients such as chicken and brown rice.
6
Ideal for adult large breed dogs who need a healthy weight formula that includes chicken and brown rice.
7
This product is ideal for large breed adult dogs and contains chicken and brown rice as main ingredients.
8
This product is ideal for dogs who are adult, large breed, need weight management, and prefer chicken meal and barley recipe.
9
This product is ideal for large breed puppies and contains chicken and rice formula in a 34 lb. bag.
10
Ideal for managing weight in adult large breed dogs with chicken as the main ingredient in a 28.5 lb. bag.
Ideal for large breed dogs with joint health concerns, featuring a shredded blend chicken and rice formula in a 34 lb bag.
This product is ideal for large breed dogs, providing a natural and complete diet made with chicken and rice.
Ideal for large breed dogs with high protein needs and digestive issues, formulated with chicken and rice.
Ideal for Large Breed Puppies, this high-protein dog food contains a trio of proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon.
This product is ideal for small breed adult dogs who prefer natural ingredients such as chicken and brown rice.
Ideal for adult large breed dogs who need a healthy weight formula that includes chicken and brown rice.
This product is ideal for large breed adult dogs and contains chicken and brown rice as main ingredients.
This product is ideal for dogs who are adult, large breed, need weight management, and prefer chicken meal and barley recipe.
This product is ideal for large breed puppies and contains chicken and rice formula in a 34 lb. bag.
Ideal for managing weight in adult large breed dogs with chicken as the main ingredient in a 28.5 lb. bag.

1. Joint Health Chicken & Rice Dog Food – 34 Lbs

The Purina Pro Plan Joint Health Large Breed Dog Food comes in a 34 lb. bag and is perfect for dogs who need a high protein diet that promotes joint health. This dog food is made of crunchy kibble that is combined with tender, shredded pieces, providing a great taste and texture that dogs love. Real chicken is the first ingredient, ensuring that your furry friend gets the protein they need to stay active and healthy. This dog food is also fortified with guaranteed live probiotics that help promote digestive and immune health. Formerly known as SAVOR Shredded Blend Large Breed Formula, this dog food is a great choice for large breed dogs who need a balanced and nutritious diet.

The Purina Pro Plan Joint Health Large Breed Dog Food is made with high-quality ingredients that are carefully selected to provide your dog with the nutrients they need. The crunchy kibble and tender, shredded pieces provide a delicious taste and texture that dogs love, while the high protein formula helps maintain and build strong muscles. The real chicken used in this dog food is a great source of protein, and the guaranteed live probiotics help support digestive and immune health. This dog food is a great choice for large breed dogs who need a balanced and nutritious diet to stay healthy and active.

If you're looking for a dog food that promotes joint health and provides your furry friend with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and active, the Purina Pro Plan Joint Health Large Breed Dog Food is an excellent choice. This dog food is made with real chicken as the first ingredient and is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health. The crunchy kibble and tender, shredded pieces provide a great taste and texture that dogs love, making this dog food a great choice for large breed dogs who need a balanced and nutritious diet.

Pros

  • High protein formula promotes strong muscles
  • Real chicken is the first ingredient
  • Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health
  • Crunchy kibble combined with tender, shredded pieces for taste and texture dogs love

2. Large Breeds Rejoice: Chicken Rice Dog Chow

The Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a nutritionally dense crunchy kibble that is created with the finest ingredients to provide whole body health for your furry friend. This dog food is made with chicken and brown rice, which are carefully selected to nourish and sustain your dog's wellbeing.

The recipe for this dog food is created by nutritionists, veterinarians, and animal lovers. This ensures that it provides an ideal balance of nature's finest ingredients, making it a perfect meal for your dog.

The Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food supports healthy weight and strong joints. It is supported by glucosamine for strong joints, antioxidants for strong immune systems, vitamins for healthy eyes and teeth, omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, and taurine for a healthy heart.

This dog food does not contain any corn, wheat, or soy, making it a perfect meal for dogs with food sensitivities. It also doesn't contain any poultry by-products, wheat gluten, corn, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives.

This product is made in the USA, using only the finest globally sourced ingredients. Each diet is prepared in a state-of-the-art facility, with wholesome, non-GMO ingredients chosen for their nutritional benefits.

Pros

  • Made with chicken and brown rice for whole body health
  • Created by nutritionists, veterinarians, and animal lovers
  • Supports healthy weight and strong joints
  • Does not contain any corn, wheat, or soy
  • Made in the USA with wholesome, non-GMO ingredients

3. Purina Large Breed High Protein Dog Food

The Purina Pro Plan High Protein, Digestive Health Large Breed Dry Dog Food now comes in a 34 lb. bag and is specially formulated to provide adult dogs with the complete and balanced nutrition they need. Made with real chicken and rice, this dry dog food offers a delicious taste that dogs love.

One of the key features of this dog food is its high protein content, which helps promote muscle conditioning when combined with proper exercise. Additionally, the formula contains glucosamine and EPA, an omega-3 fatty acid, which work together to support joint health and mobility.

This dog food is also very easy to digest, thanks to its blend of high-quality protein and probiotics. This makes it a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues. Overall, the Purina Pro Plan High Protein, Digestive Health Large Breed Dry Dog Food is a great choice for any dog owner looking to provide their pet with high-quality nutrition and support for their overall health and well-being.

Pros

  • High protein content promotes muscle conditioning
  • Contains glucosamine and EPA for joint health and mobility
  • Easy to digest, making it a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs
  • Made with real chicken and rice for a delicious taste

4. Nutro Ultra Large Breed Puppy Trio-Protein Dog Food

NUTRO ULTRA Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food is the perfect choice for those pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with high-quality, real ingredients. This premium dog food kibble features a trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon, with chicken as the main ingredient. Specially formulated for large breed puppies, this healthy dog food recipe provides complete and balanced nutrition for your growing pup. The kibble is tailored to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies, which promotes brain development and healthy growth.

NUTRO ULTRA Dry Dog Food is made with high-quality protein and a blend of 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, blueberries, and other quality ingredients that support healthy digestion. This dry dog food is made with no chicken by-product meal, corn, soy, or wheat, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. The ingredients in this dog food are sourced from a trusted network of farmers and suppliers.

This dry dog food is perfect for those pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a healthy and balanced diet. With high-quality protein and a blend of superfoods, NUTRO ULTRA Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for your growing pup.

Pros

  • Contains a trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon, with chicken as the main ingredient, specially formulated for large breed puppies
  • Made with high-quality, real ingredients that provide complete and balanced nutrition for your growing pup
  • Tailored to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies, which promotes brain development and healthy growth
  • Made with 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, blueberries, and other quality ingredients that support healthy digestion
  • Made with no chicken by-product meal, corn, soy, or wheat and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
  • Ingredients are sourced from a trusted network of farmers and suppliers

5. Small Breed Chicken And Rice Dog Food.

BLUE Life Protection Formula Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a high-quality, nutritious dog food that is specially formulated to meet the energy needs of small breed dogs. This dog food features real chicken as the first ingredient, providing your dog with a source of high-quality protein that helps build and maintain healthy muscles.

In addition to real chicken, this dog food contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit, all of which provide your dog with a balanced diet that supports overall health and wellbeing. The kibble size is ideal for smaller jaws, making it easy for your dog to eat and digest.

This dog food is fortified with a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that have been carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance. This blend is called LifeSource Bits, and it contains a variety of antioxidant-rich ingredients that promote health and vitality.

BLUE Life Protection Formula Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is made with the finest natural ingredients and is enhanced with vitamins and minerals. This dog food contains NO chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives, making it a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

If you want to give your small breed dog a nutritious and delicious diet, try BLUE Life Protection Formula Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food. It comes in a convenient 15 lb. bag and is sure to be a hit with your furry friend.

Pros

  • Features real chicken as the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein for healthy muscles
  • Contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit for a balanced diet
  • Fortified with a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that promote health and vitality
  • Made with the finest natural ingredients and contains NO chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives
  • Kibble size is ideal for smaller jaws

6. Blue Buffalo Large Breed Healthy Weight Dog Food.

The Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Healthy Weight Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a nutritious and delicious option for dogs. With real chicken as the first ingredient, this dog food provides high-quality protein that helps your dog to build and maintain healthy muscles. In addition to this, it contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies and fruit that provide a balanced diet. This dog food is specially formulated with reduced calories from fat to help large breed dogs achieve and maintain healthy weight. It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin to help support joint health and mobility. This dog food is a natural choice for your dog as it is made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals. It does not contain any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives. Moreover, it contains antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that are carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists. The LifeSource Bits provide support for the immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

Pros

  • Real meat is the first ingredient
  • Contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies and fruit
  • Specially formulated with reduced calories from fat to help large breed dogs achieve and maintain healthy weight
  • Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to help support joint health and mobility
  • Antioxidant-rich Lifesource Bits to support immune system health, life stage needs and a healthy oxidative balance
  • Made with the finest natural ingredients
  • Does not contain chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives

7. Nutro Large Breed Chicken & Rice Dog Kibble

NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe is a perfect diet for large breed dogs aged 18 months and above. It is a 30-pound bag of delicious kibble that is made with real chicken as the primary ingredient. The high-quality protein in the food is designed to keep your dog fit and trim. It is made with non-GMO ingredients, and there are no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy in it.

This dog food is formulated with natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin that support healthy joints. It also contains essential antioxidants that help build and maintain a healthy immune system. The food is cooked in the USA facilities with the finest ingredients from around the world

Overall, NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe is a well-balanced diet that provides your dog with all the necessary nutrients. It keeps your dog healthy, active, and energetic.

Pros

  • Made with high-quality protein source which is real chicken
  • Formulated to support healthy joints and immune system
  • Non-GMO ingredients and free from chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy
  • Cooked in the USA facilities with the finest ingredients from around the world

8. Healthy Weight Chicken & Barley Dog Food

The adult dry food is specially designed for large breed dogs with 18% lower calories than Science Diet Large Breed dogs. It is a light dog food that promotes ideal body weight and supports healthy mobility and a healthy heart with the help of L-carnitine. The high-quality protein and natural fibers in the food keep your large dog satisfied between meals. The food also contains omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E which nourish your big dog's skin and support a shiny coat. This food is made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients that you can trust.

Pros

  • 18% lower calories than Science Diet Large Breed dogs
  • Promotes ideal body weight and supports healthy mobility and a healthy heart with L-carnitine
  • High-quality protein and natural fibers keep your large dog satisfied between meals
  • Contains omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E which nourish your big dog's skin and support a shiny coat
  • Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients that you can trust

9. Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food, Chicken And Rice Formula – 34 Lb. Bag

The Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula is a great choice for pet owners who want to give their growing pups the right start in life. This 34 lb. bag of dry puppy food is specially formulated to support an appropriate growth rate for large breed puppies. With glucosamine, this formula also helps support developing joints and cartilage, which is essential for large breeds. Additionally, vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids work together to nourish the skin and coat of your furry friend. Finally, this high protein formula features real chicken as the first ingredient, ensuring that your puppy is getting the protein they need to grow big and strong.

This puppy food is made with high-quality ingredients and is backed by the trusted Purina name, meaning you can feel confident in your choice. It is also easy to digest and contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Overall, if you want to give your puppy the best start in life, the Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula is definitely worth considering.

Pros

  • Specially formulated for large breed puppies to support appropriate growth rate
  • Glucosamine supports developing joints and cartilage
  • Vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids nourish skin and coat
  • High protein formula with real chicken as the first ingredient

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for small breed puppies

10. Large Breed Perfect Weight Chicken Dog Food.

This dry dog food is expertly designed to meet the energy requirements of large breed adult dogs. With a balanced blend of high-quality protein, it promotes the development of lean muscle mass and supports your dog's overall health and wellbeing.

One of the key benefits of this dog food is its natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin, which support your grown dog's joint health and mobility. Additionally, it contains nourishing omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, which help to maintain your senior dog's healthy skin and shiny coat.

This dog food is made with natural ingredients, including real meat, vegetables, and fruits, and is free from any artificial preservatives or colors. It is a wholesome and nutritious meal option that your furry friend is sure to love!

Pros

  • Formulated to meet the energy needs of large breed adult dogs
  • Supports joint health with natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin
  • Maintains healthy skin and coat with nourishing omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E
  • Promotes the development of lean muscle mass with high-quality protein
  • Made with natural ingredients, free from artificial preservatives or colors

Best Chicken Breed For Pets FAQs

What are some of the most popular chicken breeds for backyard pet keeping?

When it comes to backyard pet keeping, chickens are a popular choice for many people. They are relatively low maintenance and can provide a source of fresh eggs. There are many different chicken breeds, each with their own unique characteristics and personalities. Some of the most popular breeds for backyard pet keeping include the Rhode Island Red, Plymouth Rock, and Sussex.

The Rhode Island Red is a hardy breed that is known for being a good layer of large brown eggs. They are also known for their calm and docile personalities, making them a good choice for families with children. The Plymouth Rock is another popular breed that is known for its friendly nature and good egg-laying abilities. They are a medium-sized bird with black and white striped feathers. Finally, the Sussex is a breed that comes in a variety of colors, including red, speckled, and white. They are known for being a good all-around bird, with good egg-laying abilities and a friendly personality.

Overall, there are many different breeds of chickens to choose from when it comes to backyard pet keeping. It's important to do your research and choose a breed that will be a good fit for your specific needs and lifestyle.

What are the best chicken breeds for keeping as pets?

When it comes to keeping chickens as pets, there are several breeds that are well-suited for the task. Some of the best chicken breeds for pets include the Silkie, the Buff Orpington, and the Rhode Island Red.

The Silkie is a small breed of chicken that is known for its fluffy feathers and gentle nature. They are very docile and make great pets for families with children. They are also excellent brooders, meaning they will sit on eggs and hatch them.

The Buff Orpington is a larger breed of chicken that is known for its friendly personality and calm temperament. They are very good with children and are easy to handle. They are also good layers of eggs, making them a practical choice for families who want both pets and a source of fresh eggs.

The Rhode Island Red is another popular breed for pets. They are hardy and easy to care for, and they are very good layers of eggs. They have a friendly personality and are known for their docile nature.

Overall, when choosing a chicken breed for a pet, it is important to consider factors such as temperament, size, and egg-laying ability. The Silkie, Buff Orpington, and Rhode Island Red are all great choices for families looking for a fun and practical pet.

What are the differences between different chicken breeds when it comes to temperament and behavior?

There are numerous breeds of chickens, each with their own unique set of characteristics, including temperament and behavior. Some breeds are known to be more docile and friendly, while others can be quite aggressive and difficult to handle.

For example, Rhode Island Reds are known for their friendly temperament and are easy to handle, making them a popular choice for backyard flocks. On the other hand, Leghorns can be quite skittish and flighty, making them more difficult to handle and requiring more space to avoid stress.

Additionally, some breeds are more suited for certain environments or purposes. For example, the Cornish Cross breed is often chosen for meat production due to their fast growth rate and large size, but they may have health issues due to their size and lack of mobility.

Ultimately, it is important to research and choose a breed that fits your specific needs and preferences, whether that be for egg production, meat production, or simply as pets. Understanding the differences in temperament and behavior can help ensure a successful and enjoyable experience with your flock.

What chicken breeds are known for being docile and easy to handle?

There are several chicken breeds that are known for being docile and easy to handle. One of the most popular breeds is the Buff Orpington, which is a large and friendly bird that is easy to tame. Another popular breed is the Australorp, which is known for being calm and friendly with humans. The Plymouth Rock is also a good choice for those looking for a docile chicken breed, as it is known for being calm and easy to handle. Other breeds that are known for their gentle nature include the Sussex, the Wyandotte, and the Brahmas. When choosing a chicken breed, it is important to consider your specific needs and preferences, as well as the climate and environment in which you will be keeping your birds. With the right care and attention, any chicken breed can become a friendly and docile pet.

Which chicken breeds are friendly and good with children?

There are several chicken breeds that are known to be friendly and good with children. One of the most popular breeds is the Buff Orpington, which has a calm and gentle personality. They are also known to be good egg layers, making them a great choice for families looking for a dual-purpose breed.

Another friendly breed is the Rhode Island Red. They are known for their easy-going nature and are great for families who want a breed that is low-maintenance. Additionally, they are excellent layers and can produce up to 300 eggs per year.

The Sussex is another breed that is friendly and good with children. They are known for their calm and docile personalities, and they are also great foragers. This makes them a good choice for families who want a breed that is easy to care for and that can help keep the yard clean.

Overall, there are many chicken breeds that are friendly and good with children. It's important to do your research and choose a breed that will fit well with your family's lifestyle and needs.

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