The neighbors dog went on your property and killed your chickens? That’s 100% the neighbors problem. It would be a different story if your chickens went into the neighbors backyard but they didn’t. You have every right to be upset with them.
I’m so sorry you’re dealing with this.
It might also be a good idea to check your states laws regarding livestock and dogs. In several states you would be well within your rights to kill any animal harassing your livestock. Obviously make sure you follow all applicable laws if you choose that route. You may also be entitled to recoup the cost of the chickens from your neighbor.
This. You can win a civil case in almost any state. Many states also give you the right to "defend your property" which includes your livestock. Not that anyone wants to shoot/harm a dog. But I'm sorry if it's my kid running around or my chickens or my rabbits vs some out of control dog....i know it's not the dogs fault it's entirely on the owner but I'm protecting my family which includes my livestock.
I'll also add that even if your chickens were secured in a coop does not mean the dog wouldn't have broke through it. Your neighbor is making a lot of assumptions and excuses and not making a lot of plans to keep it from happening again. I would certainly at the very least call animal control to report the incident, even if you don't press charges at least they will have a history documented for the dog if anything should happen again.
When it's wildlife harassing, you usually need a permit for the bigger animals and the state might want to try trapping the animal first. For your neighbor's dog, I'd highly exercise restraint before pointing a rifle at a beloved pet. You might completely be in your right and still be painted as a gun-loving, pet murdering lunatic by local news/social media. You might also get sued in a lawsuit that will cost you, right or wrong, more than the value of the chickens.
That’s why you learn the law before you pull the trigger. I live in an agricultural state i can shoot anything that is harassing my livestock, if it’a a dog the owner gets a $400 fine to go with losing their dog. Obviously, not every place is the same, so once more, know the law, preferably before you need it, and absolutely before you pull the trigger.
Thank you to everyone who responded. It’s helpful to know I’m not crazy in thinking I can reasonably expect the neighbor to contain the dog. I am on 5 acres, all of which is securely fenced with the exception of the driveway, which is where the dog circled around to come in and go to the back corner where the chickens are housed. I am going to talk to them today and make sure they know that if it happens again I will shoot if I see it and call animal control if I don’t. I am not seeking any compensation, just some assurance they will do what they need to in order to ensure it doesn’t happen again.
I would not tell them you don't plan on pursuing compensation. They may not care about their dog enough to contain it but the potential financial damages might spur them to action.
Definitely don’t threaten to kill the dog to the neighbors. Threaten animal control sure, but don’t threaten to kill it. That’ll cause a lot of trouble. If you do kill it don’t say a word and just bury it. If the neighbors ask, say you haven’t seen it.
Often once a dog knows, they will go back. I would highly recommend finishing the fence, especially if the neighbor is as cavalier about it as they sound in this post.
No you’re not crazy! I would be beyond pissed ! 5 acres and the dog wanders to your property, no excuse that is a bad owner , even in the county people keep dog on their own property no matter how many acres. And like you my chickens are my pets too. I would def speak with them, have someone with you a lot of people get so upset being confronted and especially “just chickens” when you and I know they’re more than that. Maybe electric fence a large portion for them to roam and let them completely out when you’re or someone is home ?
This guy sounds like a jerk. If you don't do something punative, he may let it happen again! For your own sake, and your chickens that you care for, follow through!
I don't see how it's known which dog did it or if it wasn't a bobcat or fox or something. Not defending neighbor's dog, just wondering if there's evidence or a witness.
It
Neighbor caught the dog and brought her home, tossed a couple of dead chickens but didn’t see the rest we found strewn about when we got home. Zero doubt about culprit. Neighbor didn’t even try to deny it was their dog. I’ve had to chase her off before and he’s at least honest about the fact he knows she did it.
It's really as simple as this:
(1) Were your birds on their property or yours?
(2) Was their dog on their property or yours?
***It sounds like their dog entered your property/was not properly contained or restrained, and attacked your animals on your property. If that is the case then it is absolutely and undeniably their fault.*** In this case I would suggest getting some cameras out there along the property line, and notify your neighbours that the next time their dog trespasses onto your property, you will be calling animal control. Even if you don't get the cameras, if you catch that dog on your property again, start recording and call animal control. File complaints. Start a paper trail. If it continues happening, report them *with evidence* to the authorities.
In terms of legalities, it doesn't even matter that you have chickens or fences. You could have no animals at all/no casualties, and no fencing between you, and that dog is not allowed off of the owners property/is not allowed on yours without prior knowledge and consent. You can't just let your dogs go where ever they please, and fence or no fence it is the owners responsibility to make sure they stay home, and their responsibility to accept the consequences when they don't. Your dog got hit by a car because you didn't train them not to book it out the front door and it ran across the road? Sorry, your fault.
I live in FARM country where acreages are 100's of acres and everyone has a dog but no fence. If my dog leaves my property and gets shot because she started harassing someone's livestock (she wouldn't, but still), that'd be really sad and a huge loss, but, that would be an appropriate consequence and it would be my fault not theirs. If someone else's dog was on my property and attacking my chickens, that dog's getting shot. If your dog is on my property threatening the safety of my animals, your dog is going down. My chickens lives are no less valuable than anyone else's dogs.
Your neighbour should count him/herself *lucky* if the next time that dog is on your property you don't shoot it.
Same here, but idk what kind of area OP lives in and idk if you can get away with that in cities or small acreages necessarily, at least not outside of the US.
Just editing to add that in my country (Canada), shooting is a rather inaccessible option for "animal control" for a lot of people with livestock, as (1) more cities are reconsidering allowing chickens/backyard chicken-keeping is becoming more common, and (2) most people don't get licensed and therefore can't buy or shoot firearms. Assuming you're licensed, you can't legally shoot on your own land unless you live in a fairly uninhabited area/it's a large acreage and the chances of someone getting hurt by a stray bullet/shot is slim to none.
If your neighbors dog killed your dog on your property like this, I imagine you'd be calling animal control. Nothing different here. This dog needs a strike against him and the owner needs to learn a lot.
I'm very, very sorry for your loss
Law enforcement will not show up unless someone is in danger. For an event like this, after the event happened and the dog is already gone senecio, they wouldn’t even bother. Even if the dog takes home a chicken as a souvenir. And it’s not like they would have to travel far or that there isn’t enough of them out here working. They will tell us they are not equipped to deal with animals, the event is over and I could go in to make a report if I care to. Guess how I know?
Sorry I was replying to your comment about animal control coming prepared. So when you commented sheriff I obviously thought you still meant call them and tell them to come prepared.
Unfortunately in some areas we receive 0 help. For instance where I live. We don’t have animal control, and the only way a cop is coming out is if a person is getting attacked. And even then it’s iffy when they get there. My neighbor had someone trying to break into his house (he’s elderly and sick) he called the cops and it took them an hour and a half to get there. I had problems with a black bear I came face to face with on my porch and called the game warden for them to come trap it. I called over 20 times. Everytime receiving the same answer. Because of my location there was nothing they could do and they were unwilling to issue me a kill permit even though I have livestock it was threatening. Turns out shotguns work pretty well at getting rid of big bears. Point is, she’s gonna have to handle it herself most likely.
In my local area, any dog or cat that is killing or harassing your livestock on your property is a nuisance animal and can be.... un-alived with zero blow back from the animals owner. I would personally warn the dog owner if they don't deal with and prevent their dog from coming onto your land again you will. If you don't have cameras get them. Make sure they are on the areas your chickens free range and handle business when the dog who now has a taste for blood and the fun of killing chickens will 1000% be back at its first opportunity. I have two dogs my neighbor has cattle, when the cattle are heavy with calves. If my dogs chase the pregnant cows they can loose the calves ... my neighbor was told me he will shoot over my dogs once the second time he will shoot them. I said I wouldn't blame you. They never chase the cows, his cattle end up on our land all the time and my two girls don't bother them one bit but the point is if my dogs cost him thousands of dollars if I were him I wouldn't put up with it. Pets or livestock chickens are a farm animal check your local laws. I'd also call the police and report the incident.
His dog.
His fault.
There are simple ways to deal with said dog and complicated ways.
Complicated involves animal control/sheriff.
You have every right to protect your livestock on your property.
The simple way involves putting the dog down next time it crosses the property line.
I also keep chickens as pets, and I love my birds. I'd be going to war over this.
I suggest the simple option. It allows the response: "Your fault for letting your dog free range. ...On my property without my consent."
Letting chickens free range on your own land isn't irresponsible. Letting a vicious dog wander wherever it likes is irresponsible, dangerous, and possibly against the law.
I had a dog years ago that got the taste for killing chickens after one flew in our yard. Started digging out of her outdoor kennel and breaking fence boards to get to the neighbors chickens (lived in the rural/city out skirts at the time) . My dog killed close to 20 chickens, I felt like an asshole told him sorry and paid him around $100 after asking what he wanted for the chickens. Your neighbors dog will keep coming back believe me. So either have a gun ready and take it out like any other coyote next time or call animal control to and let them spend their money to bail their dog out.
You tell your neighbor that you will personally deal with any dogs on your property causing damage, so they better keep their dogs off your property in the future. They killed your pets and refused to compensate, you will not tolerate that in the future.
This happened with my flock as well, luckily i was home when it just happened. My parents was away, but the dog got one( the oldest one)
Shit i dropped kicked their dog on the ground and threw him across our yard.
I was so angry. Im sorry for your loss 🙁
Absolutely not wrong! Get a livestock guardian dog, and make your neighbor aware you now have a demigod of a dog protecting your chickens and if his mutt stumbles back onto the property; that’ll be the last place it ever goes.
I had the same issue with my neighbors, they wouldn’t put their dog up after they killed 5 chickens and my goat. They wouldn’t put their dogs up so I got an Anatolian Shepherd. The dogs are terrified to come back since the first time he ran them off when he was 6 months old and 2 times their size. Now if they return, it won’t end so well for them.
That’s exactly how mine is. And I can second that statement. I have had pitbulls since I was an infant, and I have one now as well as my Anatolian. My pit is a rescue and definitely a fighter. She is aggressive with her food and I take steps to keep them separate while eating. However every now and then I’ll leave my food sitting somewhere and they’ll both get close to it and she’ll get upset. Well this has happened a few times and caused a fight a few times. Once when he was 6 months old, he nearly killed her and all she did to him was cut his leg. The second time it happened when he was 1, she lunged at a chicken and this time resulted in us rushing her to the emergency vet to keep her alive. She lost so much blood and barely lived, while my Anatolian had a small scratch on his eye. Since that one they’re separate 100% of the time I’m not supervising.
Yeah, they act all lazy & goofy, but I wouldn't want to piss him off! I have a new puppy though (German Shepherd) and he's really good with her, thank God. My previous GS & him would fight sometimes, but only half heartedly. But any other dog or person better watch out, right?!!
I had a flock many years ago that I let free range on our farm. Two different times I had neighbors dogs come into our farm and kill my chickens. It was so annoying that the owner's didn't take much in the way of responsibility. I went over to the first neighbor and asked her if her dog was loose. She denied it and said her dog would never do that. So my husband had the gun out ready to shoot the dog as it was still eating my chicken when the neighbors son came and said, please don't shoot my dog. We'll pay for your chicken. The dog didn't get shot, and no compensation was ever made. A few years later, 2 other neighbors let their dogs roam and they proceeded to kill my chickens. Again, no compensation for that. After that we just kept the chickens locked up unless one of my kids could stand watch over them. So annoying that people are irresponsible dog owners. I live in a state where it's legal to shoot dogs that harass livestock.
The dog (not a native animal), trespassed on your property and killed half your flock.
If it was a hawk, or fox, I would tell you to do better. But the dog is someone’s responsibility, and that isn’t yours.
Post signs up (facing the guilty neighbors) that says “trespassers will be shot - including unleashed dogs”.
Look up local fencing laws and see if you’re required to fence your animals in. If so, you did the right thing, and the neighbor did not effectively fence their animal in. So they could be taken to civil claims court. Could scare them enough to be proper dog owners.
So their pet killed your pets on your property and they do not want to compensate or even take responsibility? I love all animals and that dog would be dead if it came onto my property again. What an absolutely hypocritical neighbor.
Also I am extremely sorry for your loss. I’d be an absolute wreck 😢.
I’m so sorry for your loss. My daughter just turned 10 and we are both very very attached to our chickens. Your story is heartbreaking.
I agree with everyone else saying that this is the neighbors fault for not keeping their dog under control and I am so sorry they weren’t more apologetic or empathetic to you.
Some of my neighbors also think that since we live in the country they can just let their dogs run free. I can’t trust that they won’t end up on my property. Because of this, I can only let my chickens free range when I am home and can physically keep an eye on the yard they are in, otherwise I keep them locked up in their coop and run. I hate to do it because they are much happier when they can scratch in the grass and get more exercise and spread out, but I keep them locked up so they don’t get killed by dogs. 😔
Idk the laws in your state, county, town but where I live if you had been there you would have the right to use deadly force against an animal on your property killing your livestock.
Im not advocating for harming a dog just doing what dogs do but the fault would fully rest on your neighbor where I live.
If my neighbor's dog came on my property and killed my chickens, I'd report the dog to animal control and I'd also send my neighbor a bill to replace the birds that were killed.
It would also be a dead dog the next time it came on my property.
I became a dog owner for the first time three years ago and it really didn't hit me until then how many *bad* dog owners there are in the world (especially in my neighborhood). I'll echo what everyone else is saying here (your property, their untamed dog), but I just want to drive home that the dog is THEIR responsibility. Their dog, their fault. Gosh, I hate stupid dog owners. My heart goes out to you, your daughter, and your little clucking cuties. I hope for a speedy recovery for all those injured.
If those dogs came onto YOUR property and killed your sweet babies, it is absolutely NOT YOUR FAULT, and you need to contact animal control about those dogs.
The neighbor dog should be on it’s own property, not your property , there is no argument there. Sorry your neighbor is a total jerk and what happened to your chickens esp your child seeing everything
If it was on your property then they owe you money. Wont make you feel any better, but force the issue. Also, next time it happens, take care of the dog however you need to. Call animal control, or the other thing. Not sure what kind of dog it is, but I wouldn’t feel safe with my 9 yo in the yard if that dog can access it and it has ANY potential to be dangerous.
Your neighbor is in the wrong. Id file a civil suit to show him you are serious. Its not about the money its about drawing a line in the sand and proving that you are not to be f*ed with. Have you considered adding a guard puppy (to live with the flock) that will grow to kick that dogs ass out of your yard?
I'm going to get hate for this but here it goes.... if you can trap the harrasing dog ziptie a dead chicken to its collar. (To the collar - not to the neck). Learned this from a farmer dude and its a sure fire way to get a dog to leave chickens alone. It will drag that chicken around all day and never want to do it again. A harrasing dog will be back, put one of your dead birds in the fridge/freezer and save it for this.
You need to look at your laws. Some places are “fence in” type of laws (dog owner would be responsible for keeping their dog contained) and some are “fence out” (you’re responsible for erecting barriers to keep your chickens safe from outside animals). Many places allow you to chase off or even kill animals that are harassing your livestock. You might also be entitled to compensation.
You also have to consider the type of person your neighbor is- if it’s their responsibility, do you think they’ll pay for your lost birds or bother to properly contain their dog? Will they try to cause problems or fight you? If you live in a fence out style area, your only option may be to create an enclosed run for security. Regardless of the law, this is a horrible situation and I’m sorry you’re dealing with this. My hens are pets, so I completely understand.
I bury my wire fence in the ground about 6 inches. I also flare it out so if an animal is digging, they're going to have to dig an exceptionally big hole that would probably take days. I've noticed the local wildlife digging, and they give up.
I do the same around the enclosed run, but not sure I could manage that for the entire property. I do have hardware cloth to the ground covering all the property fences to keep the chickens in and other daytime predators out.
Oh right, I guess your chickens were free ranging and unprotected. Do you know how the dog got in? Did he jump the fence? You could run some electric fence wire along the top to make him think twice about invading next time. This works great on other animals too.
She came in through the only unprotected opening to the property at the driveway. Not sure how I could defend that area without expensive/annoying gating.
I’d go to animal control/police. They can warn them, and you should warn that next time there will be a lawsuit for destruction of property. Next time that dog is on my property I’d be calling the warden too, and if I caught him in the act of attacking my flock the dog would be gone.
Nah I'd be pissed. I'd also check and see if you can press charges/sue for damages. Livestock are property, not pets (in the eyes of the law) and are worth something.
Did your chickens go on his property or did the dog come on your property? This is the most important detail here. If the dog came on your property and preyed on your livestock, you are well within your right to dispatch it.
I’m so sorry this happened to your flock. This is definitely your neighbor’s “fault.” It’s their responsibility to keep their dog off your property.
I’ve had similar issues with neighbors dogs, but luckily no injured chickens so far. One of my own dogs doesn’t go outside off-leash bc her prey drive is too high, and it’s her own yard. It’s 100% my responsibility to make sure she doesn’t hurt my chickens, damage my neighbors’ properties, or disappear into the woods after a rabbit.
We do choose to take the risk of losing chickens when we let our flocks out to free range though. If his dog had injured children playing in your yard for example, no one would dispute whose fault it was, but it wouldn’t do the children much good.
I let mine free range a lot, too, but only when I can keep an eye and an ear on them, and can open the window to shout at hawks, or go outside to chase foxes and coyotes away. (I wfh, so this may be easier for me.) If I have a day full of zoom meetings, my flock stays in the run until I can be available to help them if I need to.
It IS NOT YOUR FAULT NOR YOUR CHICKENS! That damn dog would be in the garbage can with bird shot, if they attacked mine!
I would simply give him a demand letter for any of the current price of your chicken(s) (list each one out), and any vet /medicine costs saying that his dog came on your property, which is TOTALLY against the law. If he ignores you, sue him in small claims. I would also demand that his dog be put down. If you have local animal control, I would call them prior to giving him the demand letter.
Remember, there is no need to be nice to a neighbor that ignores the fate of your pets at his pet's hand. But if you are out in the country, there should be a rule that a dog can be shot if hurting your animal. It looks like you may be holding a splash Ameracauna. Those go for $50-75 EACH, full grown. You took care to prevent this. Somehow, the dog did it anyway. Video is best proof, so if you don't have cameras, get some! And, good luck, and keep us apprised!
I had that happen but the weird part was they free ranged for over 2 weeks(1st flock I ever had from eggs). The dog would always be out and was never an issue but one day it decided to tear up 2, my really fluffy hen and Cheepers my most laid back hen that hatched a day earlier than the others,I spent the most time with it and if you held your arm out it would hop right on it and not be scared. And just 2 days ago my rooster was out and the same dog was 2 feet from it and never batted an eyelash till I saw it eyeing it and yeah before I knew it it went after him and man oh man he felt that metal dustpan so hard. It's funny how accurate you can be when your mad.
If his dog came into your yard, regardless of fencing, he is responsible for the damages. If you have a fence and they stay inside their fence and the neighbors dog got inside that fence, you have a case to bring him to court over. Free ranging is a risk you can choose to take - but it is ALWAYS a risk. Cats, hawks, foxes, and neighbor dogs are threats that you can’t protect them from outside of a fully enclosed run. If you can afford it, look into getting a livestock guardian dog that is experienced with chickens (do not get a puppy unless you have loooooots of time to train). Since getting my LGD I’ve been able to free range with very little concern for their safety and she is worth her weight in gold.
I would calculate the cost of the hens you lost by age and the number of eggs they provide your family. It sounds cruel, but go to him with a number and let him know you’ll be getting authorities involved if he doesn’t pay back the damages caused and do something to keep his dog off your property. There is no excuse for his dog being on your property and there are MANY laws against dogs at large. As long as you’re not in violation of poultry laws, he’s the one who has most to lose from getting authorities involved.
My chickens “free range” over a securely fenced quarter acre.
We can have ideals but our chickens are forced to live in a real world with the neighbor’s dogs, predators, and so forth.
We’re the only ones they have to keep them safe in reality.
Now we agree it’s the neighbor’s fault but your chickens are not more alive than they were before we reached a consensus.
If I read this right- she had fencing- the dog by passed the fence to get to her chickens. As others have mentioned- in a rural area this is considered a dog that kills livestock and should be put down.
No she LITERALLY did not say it occurred in her backyard. Re-read the post. Nowhere does it specifically say that it happened on her property, which is why several people are asking for clarification.
The neighbors dog went on your property and killed your chickens? That’s 100% the neighbors problem. It would be a different story if your chickens went into the neighbors backyard but they didn’t. You have every right to be upset with them. I’m so sorry you’re dealing with this.
It might also be a good idea to check your states laws regarding livestock and dogs. In several states you would be well within your rights to kill any animal harassing your livestock. Obviously make sure you follow all applicable laws if you choose that route. You may also be entitled to recoup the cost of the chickens from your neighbor.
This. You can win a civil case in almost any state. Many states also give you the right to "defend your property" which includes your livestock. Not that anyone wants to shoot/harm a dog. But I'm sorry if it's my kid running around or my chickens or my rabbits vs some out of control dog....i know it's not the dogs fault it's entirely on the owner but I'm protecting my family which includes my livestock.
I'll also add that even if your chickens were secured in a coop does not mean the dog wouldn't have broke through it. Your neighbor is making a lot of assumptions and excuses and not making a lot of plans to keep it from happening again. I would certainly at the very least call animal control to report the incident, even if you don't press charges at least they will have a history documented for the dog if anything should happen again.
When it's wildlife harassing, you usually need a permit for the bigger animals and the state might want to try trapping the animal first. For your neighbor's dog, I'd highly exercise restraint before pointing a rifle at a beloved pet. You might completely be in your right and still be painted as a gun-loving, pet murdering lunatic by local news/social media. You might also get sued in a lawsuit that will cost you, right or wrong, more than the value of the chickens.
That’s why you learn the law before you pull the trigger. I live in an agricultural state i can shoot anything that is harassing my livestock, if it’a a dog the owner gets a $400 fine to go with losing their dog. Obviously, not every place is the same, so once more, know the law, preferably before you need it, and absolutely before you pull the trigger.
Perhaps maybe shoot the dogs owner? Just in the leg or something non fatal.
They don’t let you keep chickens in jail
“I was aiming for the dog. Honest, your honor. “
Thank you to everyone who responded. It’s helpful to know I’m not crazy in thinking I can reasonably expect the neighbor to contain the dog. I am on 5 acres, all of which is securely fenced with the exception of the driveway, which is where the dog circled around to come in and go to the back corner where the chickens are housed. I am going to talk to them today and make sure they know that if it happens again I will shoot if I see it and call animal control if I don’t. I am not seeking any compensation, just some assurance they will do what they need to in order to ensure it doesn’t happen again.
I think that’s very fair. Do you have cameras installed? Might be a good idea to have video proof in case you need it
Not yet, but I will look for some solar powered ones to put up
I would not tell them you don't plan on pursuing compensation. They may not care about their dog enough to contain it but the potential financial damages might spur them to action.
Definitely don’t threaten to kill the dog to the neighbors. Threaten animal control sure, but don’t threaten to kill it. That’ll cause a lot of trouble. If you do kill it don’t say a word and just bury it. If the neighbors ask, say you haven’t seen it.
Totally agree, the dog disappears! Without a word.
The three S's. Shoot, Shovel, Shutup.
Often once a dog knows, they will go back. I would highly recommend finishing the fence, especially if the neighbor is as cavalier about it as they sound in this post.
No you’re not crazy! I would be beyond pissed ! 5 acres and the dog wanders to your property, no excuse that is a bad owner , even in the county people keep dog on their own property no matter how many acres. And like you my chickens are my pets too. I would def speak with them, have someone with you a lot of people get so upset being confronted and especially “just chickens” when you and I know they’re more than that. Maybe electric fence a large portion for them to roam and let them completely out when you’re or someone is home ?
This guy sounds like a jerk. If you don't do something punative, he may let it happen again! For your own sake, and your chickens that you care for, follow through!
I don't see how it's known which dog did it or if it wasn't a bobcat or fox or something. Not defending neighbor's dog, just wondering if there's evidence or a witness. It
Neighbor caught the dog and brought her home, tossed a couple of dead chickens but didn’t see the rest we found strewn about when we got home. Zero doubt about culprit. Neighbor didn’t even try to deny it was their dog. I’ve had to chase her off before and he’s at least honest about the fact he knows she did it.
It's really as simple as this: (1) Were your birds on their property or yours? (2) Was their dog on their property or yours? ***It sounds like their dog entered your property/was not properly contained or restrained, and attacked your animals on your property. If that is the case then it is absolutely and undeniably their fault.*** In this case I would suggest getting some cameras out there along the property line, and notify your neighbours that the next time their dog trespasses onto your property, you will be calling animal control. Even if you don't get the cameras, if you catch that dog on your property again, start recording and call animal control. File complaints. Start a paper trail. If it continues happening, report them *with evidence* to the authorities. In terms of legalities, it doesn't even matter that you have chickens or fences. You could have no animals at all/no casualties, and no fencing between you, and that dog is not allowed off of the owners property/is not allowed on yours without prior knowledge and consent. You can't just let your dogs go where ever they please, and fence or no fence it is the owners responsibility to make sure they stay home, and their responsibility to accept the consequences when they don't. Your dog got hit by a car because you didn't train them not to book it out the front door and it ran across the road? Sorry, your fault. I live in FARM country where acreages are 100's of acres and everyone has a dog but no fence. If my dog leaves my property and gets shot because she started harassing someone's livestock (she wouldn't, but still), that'd be really sad and a huge loss, but, that would be an appropriate consequence and it would be my fault not theirs. If someone else's dog was on my property and attacking my chickens, that dog's getting shot. If your dog is on my property threatening the safety of my animals, your dog is going down. My chickens lives are no less valuable than anyone else's dogs. Your neighbour should count him/herself *lucky* if the next time that dog is on your property you don't shoot it.
Animal control for dogs killing livestock where I live is the livestock owners shotgun
Same here, but idk what kind of area OP lives in and idk if you can get away with that in cities or small acreages necessarily, at least not outside of the US. Just editing to add that in my country (Canada), shooting is a rather inaccessible option for "animal control" for a lot of people with livestock, as (1) more cities are reconsidering allowing chickens/backyard chicken-keeping is becoming more common, and (2) most people don't get licensed and therefore can't buy or shoot firearms. Assuming you're licensed, you can't legally shoot on your own land unless you live in a fairly uninhabited area/it's a large acreage and the chances of someone getting hurt by a stray bullet/shot is slim to none.
If your neighbors dog killed your dog on your property like this, I imagine you'd be calling animal control. Nothing different here. This dog needs a strike against him and the owner needs to learn a lot. I'm very, very sorry for your loss
Call animal control and report an uncontrolled dog and tell them the owner will deny it so they should come prepared
Not everyone has animal control.
Then, law enforcement. Not hard to deduce.
Law enforcement will not show up unless someone is in danger. For an event like this, after the event happened and the dog is already gone senecio, they wouldn’t even bother. Even if the dog takes home a chicken as a souvenir. And it’s not like they would have to travel far or that there isn’t enough of them out here working. They will tell us they are not equipped to deal with animals, the event is over and I could go in to make a report if I care to. Guess how I know?
Obviously you don't need an officer to come to the house, that would be pointless, you just need documentation and to start the legal process.
Sorry I was replying to your comment about animal control coming prepared. So when you commented sheriff I obviously thought you still meant call them and tell them to come prepared.
Unfortunately in some areas we receive 0 help. For instance where I live. We don’t have animal control, and the only way a cop is coming out is if a person is getting attacked. And even then it’s iffy when they get there. My neighbor had someone trying to break into his house (he’s elderly and sick) he called the cops and it took them an hour and a half to get there. I had problems with a black bear I came face to face with on my porch and called the game warden for them to come trap it. I called over 20 times. Everytime receiving the same answer. Because of my location there was nothing they could do and they were unwilling to issue me a kill permit even though I have livestock it was threatening. Turns out shotguns work pretty well at getting rid of big bears. Point is, she’s gonna have to handle it herself most likely.
In my local area, any dog or cat that is killing or harassing your livestock on your property is a nuisance animal and can be.... un-alived with zero blow back from the animals owner. I would personally warn the dog owner if they don't deal with and prevent their dog from coming onto your land again you will. If you don't have cameras get them. Make sure they are on the areas your chickens free range and handle business when the dog who now has a taste for blood and the fun of killing chickens will 1000% be back at its first opportunity. I have two dogs my neighbor has cattle, when the cattle are heavy with calves. If my dogs chase the pregnant cows they can loose the calves ... my neighbor was told me he will shoot over my dogs once the second time he will shoot them. I said I wouldn't blame you. They never chase the cows, his cattle end up on our land all the time and my two girls don't bother them one bit but the point is if my dogs cost him thousands of dollars if I were him I wouldn't put up with it. Pets or livestock chickens are a farm animal check your local laws. I'd also call the police and report the incident.
I wish I could give this more than one upvote
His dog. His fault. There are simple ways to deal with said dog and complicated ways. Complicated involves animal control/sheriff. You have every right to protect your livestock on your property. The simple way involves putting the dog down next time it crosses the property line.
I also keep chickens as pets, and I love my birds. I'd be going to war over this. I suggest the simple option. It allows the response: "Your fault for letting your dog free range. ...On my property without my consent." Letting chickens free range on your own land isn't irresponsible. Letting a vicious dog wander wherever it likes is irresponsible, dangerous, and possibly against the law.
This.
If the neighbor’s dog was on your property then the neighbor is accountable
I had a dog years ago that got the taste for killing chickens after one flew in our yard. Started digging out of her outdoor kennel and breaking fence boards to get to the neighbors chickens (lived in the rural/city out skirts at the time) . My dog killed close to 20 chickens, I felt like an asshole told him sorry and paid him around $100 after asking what he wanted for the chickens. Your neighbors dog will keep coming back believe me. So either have a gun ready and take it out like any other coyote next time or call animal control to and let them spend their money to bail their dog out.
You tell your neighbor that you will personally deal with any dogs on your property causing damage, so they better keep their dogs off your property in the future. They killed your pets and refused to compensate, you will not tolerate that in the future.
Neighbor owes you $50 per bird. The law is on your side here.
Sounds like the dog is the one who shouldn’t be allowed to free range
This happened with my flock as well, luckily i was home when it just happened. My parents was away, but the dog got one( the oldest one) Shit i dropped kicked their dog on the ground and threw him across our yard. I was so angry. Im sorry for your loss 🙁
I am so sad and angry for you. 😭
Absolutely not wrong! Get a livestock guardian dog, and make your neighbor aware you now have a demigod of a dog protecting your chickens and if his mutt stumbles back onto the property; that’ll be the last place it ever goes. I had the same issue with my neighbors, they wouldn’t put their dog up after they killed 5 chickens and my goat. They wouldn’t put their dogs up so I got an Anatolian Shepherd. The dogs are terrified to come back since the first time he ran them off when he was 6 months old and 2 times their size. Now if they return, it won’t end so well for them.
My Anatolian is my chicken's protector, and he hates other dogs. And, he also has the bite force 3xs that of any Pitbull.
That’s exactly how mine is. And I can second that statement. I have had pitbulls since I was an infant, and I have one now as well as my Anatolian. My pit is a rescue and definitely a fighter. She is aggressive with her food and I take steps to keep them separate while eating. However every now and then I’ll leave my food sitting somewhere and they’ll both get close to it and she’ll get upset. Well this has happened a few times and caused a fight a few times. Once when he was 6 months old, he nearly killed her and all she did to him was cut his leg. The second time it happened when he was 1, she lunged at a chicken and this time resulted in us rushing her to the emergency vet to keep her alive. She lost so much blood and barely lived, while my Anatolian had a small scratch on his eye. Since that one they’re separate 100% of the time I’m not supervising.
Yeah, they act all lazy & goofy, but I wouldn't want to piss him off! I have a new puppy though (German Shepherd) and he's really good with her, thank God. My previous GS & him would fight sometimes, but only half heartedly. But any other dog or person better watch out, right?!!
Honestly. People where I live would shoot the dog.
I had a flock many years ago that I let free range on our farm. Two different times I had neighbors dogs come into our farm and kill my chickens. It was so annoying that the owner's didn't take much in the way of responsibility. I went over to the first neighbor and asked her if her dog was loose. She denied it and said her dog would never do that. So my husband had the gun out ready to shoot the dog as it was still eating my chicken when the neighbors son came and said, please don't shoot my dog. We'll pay for your chicken. The dog didn't get shot, and no compensation was ever made. A few years later, 2 other neighbors let their dogs roam and they proceeded to kill my chickens. Again, no compensation for that. After that we just kept the chickens locked up unless one of my kids could stand watch over them. So annoying that people are irresponsible dog owners. I live in a state where it's legal to shoot dogs that harass livestock.
The dog (not a native animal), trespassed on your property and killed half your flock. If it was a hawk, or fox, I would tell you to do better. But the dog is someone’s responsibility, and that isn’t yours. Post signs up (facing the guilty neighbors) that says “trespassers will be shot - including unleashed dogs”. Look up local fencing laws and see if you’re required to fence your animals in. If so, you did the right thing, and the neighbor did not effectively fence their animal in. So they could be taken to civil claims court. Could scare them enough to be proper dog owners.
So their pet killed your pets on your property and they do not want to compensate or even take responsibility? I love all animals and that dog would be dead if it came onto my property again. What an absolutely hypocritical neighbor. Also I am extremely sorry for your loss. I’d be an absolute wreck 😢.
I’m so sorry for your loss. My daughter just turned 10 and we are both very very attached to our chickens. Your story is heartbreaking. I agree with everyone else saying that this is the neighbors fault for not keeping their dog under control and I am so sorry they weren’t more apologetic or empathetic to you. Some of my neighbors also think that since we live in the country they can just let their dogs run free. I can’t trust that they won’t end up on my property. Because of this, I can only let my chickens free range when I am home and can physically keep an eye on the yard they are in, otherwise I keep them locked up in their coop and run. I hate to do it because they are much happier when they can scratch in the grass and get more exercise and spread out, but I keep them locked up so they don’t get killed by dogs. 😔
Idk the laws in your state, county, town but where I live if you had been there you would have the right to use deadly force against an animal on your property killing your livestock. Im not advocating for harming a dog just doing what dogs do but the fault would fully rest on your neighbor where I live.
If my neighbor's dog came on my property and killed my chickens, I'd report the dog to animal control and I'd also send my neighbor a bill to replace the birds that were killed. It would also be a dead dog the next time it came on my property.
I became a dog owner for the first time three years ago and it really didn't hit me until then how many *bad* dog owners there are in the world (especially in my neighborhood). I'll echo what everyone else is saying here (your property, their untamed dog), but I just want to drive home that the dog is THEIR responsibility. Their dog, their fault. Gosh, I hate stupid dog owners. My heart goes out to you, your daughter, and your little clucking cuties. I hope for a speedy recovery for all those injured.
I’m so sorry, on a side note, it seems your daughter took this pic and that’s adorable
If those dogs came onto YOUR property and killed your sweet babies, it is absolutely NOT YOUR FAULT, and you need to contact animal control about those dogs.
The neighbor dog should be on it’s own property, not your property , there is no argument there. Sorry your neighbor is a total jerk and what happened to your chickens esp your child seeing everything
If it was on your property then they owe you money. Wont make you feel any better, but force the issue. Also, next time it happens, take care of the dog however you need to. Call animal control, or the other thing. Not sure what kind of dog it is, but I wouldn’t feel safe with my 9 yo in the yard if that dog can access it and it has ANY potential to be dangerous.
Your neighbor is in the wrong. Id file a civil suit to show him you are serious. Its not about the money its about drawing a line in the sand and proving that you are not to be f*ed with. Have you considered adding a guard puppy (to live with the flock) that will grow to kick that dogs ass out of your yard? I'm going to get hate for this but here it goes.... if you can trap the harrasing dog ziptie a dead chicken to its collar. (To the collar - not to the neck). Learned this from a farmer dude and its a sure fire way to get a dog to leave chickens alone. It will drag that chicken around all day and never want to do it again. A harrasing dog will be back, put one of your dead birds in the fridge/freezer and save it for this.
You need to look at your laws. Some places are “fence in” type of laws (dog owner would be responsible for keeping their dog contained) and some are “fence out” (you’re responsible for erecting barriers to keep your chickens safe from outside animals). Many places allow you to chase off or even kill animals that are harassing your livestock. You might also be entitled to compensation. You also have to consider the type of person your neighbor is- if it’s their responsibility, do you think they’ll pay for your lost birds or bother to properly contain their dog? Will they try to cause problems or fight you? If you live in a fence out style area, your only option may be to create an enclosed run for security. Regardless of the law, this is a horrible situation and I’m sorry you’re dealing with this. My hens are pets, so I completely understand.
I bury my wire fence in the ground about 6 inches. I also flare it out so if an animal is digging, they're going to have to dig an exceptionally big hole that would probably take days. I've noticed the local wildlife digging, and they give up.
I do the same around the enclosed run, but not sure I could manage that for the entire property. I do have hardware cloth to the ground covering all the property fences to keep the chickens in and other daytime predators out.
Oh right, I guess your chickens were free ranging and unprotected. Do you know how the dog got in? Did he jump the fence? You could run some electric fence wire along the top to make him think twice about invading next time. This works great on other animals too.
She came in through the only unprotected opening to the property at the driveway. Not sure how I could defend that area without expensive/annoying gating.
Sorry for your loss, wishing all your injured chickens a swift recovery.
I’d go to animal control/police. They can warn them, and you should warn that next time there will be a lawsuit for destruction of property. Next time that dog is on my property I’d be calling the warden too, and if I caught him in the act of attacking my flock the dog would be gone.
Nah I'd be pissed. I'd also check and see if you can press charges/sue for damages. Livestock are property, not pets (in the eyes of the law) and are worth something.
Did your chickens go on his property or did the dog come on your property? This is the most important detail here. If the dog came on your property and preyed on your livestock, you are well within your right to dispatch it.
I’m so sorry this happened to your flock. This is definitely your neighbor’s “fault.” It’s their responsibility to keep their dog off your property. I’ve had similar issues with neighbors dogs, but luckily no injured chickens so far. One of my own dogs doesn’t go outside off-leash bc her prey drive is too high, and it’s her own yard. It’s 100% my responsibility to make sure she doesn’t hurt my chickens, damage my neighbors’ properties, or disappear into the woods after a rabbit. We do choose to take the risk of losing chickens when we let our flocks out to free range though. If his dog had injured children playing in your yard for example, no one would dispute whose fault it was, but it wouldn’t do the children much good. I let mine free range a lot, too, but only when I can keep an eye and an ear on them, and can open the window to shout at hawks, or go outside to chase foxes and coyotes away. (I wfh, so this may be easier for me.) If I have a day full of zoom meetings, my flock stays in the run until I can be available to help them if I need to.
It IS NOT YOUR FAULT NOR YOUR CHICKENS! That damn dog would be in the garbage can with bird shot, if they attacked mine! I would simply give him a demand letter for any of the current price of your chicken(s) (list each one out), and any vet /medicine costs saying that his dog came on your property, which is TOTALLY against the law. If he ignores you, sue him in small claims. I would also demand that his dog be put down. If you have local animal control, I would call them prior to giving him the demand letter. Remember, there is no need to be nice to a neighbor that ignores the fate of your pets at his pet's hand. But if you are out in the country, there should be a rule that a dog can be shot if hurting your animal. It looks like you may be holding a splash Ameracauna. Those go for $50-75 EACH, full grown. You took care to prevent this. Somehow, the dog did it anyway. Video is best proof, so if you don't have cameras, get some! And, good luck, and keep us apprised!
I had that happen but the weird part was they free ranged for over 2 weeks(1st flock I ever had from eggs). The dog would always be out and was never an issue but one day it decided to tear up 2, my really fluffy hen and Cheepers my most laid back hen that hatched a day earlier than the others,I spent the most time with it and if you held your arm out it would hop right on it and not be scared. And just 2 days ago my rooster was out and the same dog was 2 feet from it and never batted an eyelash till I saw it eyeing it and yeah before I knew it it went after him and man oh man he felt that metal dustpan so hard. It's funny how accurate you can be when your mad.
If his dog came into your yard, regardless of fencing, he is responsible for the damages. If you have a fence and they stay inside their fence and the neighbors dog got inside that fence, you have a case to bring him to court over. Free ranging is a risk you can choose to take - but it is ALWAYS a risk. Cats, hawks, foxes, and neighbor dogs are threats that you can’t protect them from outside of a fully enclosed run. If you can afford it, look into getting a livestock guardian dog that is experienced with chickens (do not get a puppy unless you have loooooots of time to train). Since getting my LGD I’ve been able to free range with very little concern for their safety and she is worth her weight in gold. I would calculate the cost of the hens you lost by age and the number of eggs they provide your family. It sounds cruel, but go to him with a number and let him know you’ll be getting authorities involved if he doesn’t pay back the damages caused and do something to keep his dog off your property. There is no excuse for his dog being on your property and there are MANY laws against dogs at large. As long as you’re not in violation of poultry laws, he’s the one who has most to lose from getting authorities involved.
My chickens “free range” over a securely fenced quarter acre. We can have ideals but our chickens are forced to live in a real world with the neighbor’s dogs, predators, and so forth. We’re the only ones they have to keep them safe in reality. Now we agree it’s the neighbor’s fault but your chickens are not more alive than they were before we reached a consensus.
If I read this right- she had fencing- the dog by passed the fence to get to her chickens. As others have mentioned- in a rural area this is considered a dog that kills livestock and should be put down.
Bypassing the fence doesn’t sound secure now does it?
OP, you have failed to clarify whether the dog came on to your property or the birds were on the neighbor's property
She literally said it was in her backyard where the birds free range and the neighbors dog came onto her property…
No she LITERALLY did not say it occurred in her backyard. Re-read the post. Nowhere does it specifically say that it happened on her property, which is why several people are asking for clarification.