There’s nothing more distasteful than witnessing an animal devouring another animal’s waste. It’s certainly not a topic that sparks joy in most conversations. But what if you catch your chickens feasting on dog poop? Why would they do such a thing, and should you be concerned?
Chicken Eating Dog Poop
Believe it or not, there is actually a valid reason why your chicken might be interested in your dog’s fecal matter. In the natural world, it’s not uncommon for some animals to scavenge through the waste of others. They are searching for seeds and other small food particles that have survived the digestive process of the animal that left them behind.
While I cannot say for sure that this is the reason your chickens are eating dog poop, it is a likely explanation. If you observe a flock of free-range chickens, it is perfectly normal to see them pecking at fresh horse manure or even waiting near horses for more to drop. The same behavior can be observed in cow pastures, where chickens happily dig through the cow pies.
Will Chickens Get Salmonella From Eating Dog Poop?
You may have heard from other chicken owners that you should not allow your chickens to consume dog poop because they may contract salmonella from the dog’s feces. In turn, they could transmit salmonella to you through the eggs you consume.
After conducting some research on the topic, I found that this notion aligns with common understanding. The answer is simple – follow the guidelines issued by the CDC and cook your eggs thoroughly to prevent salmonella poisoning. In fact, you should always exercise caution when handling raw chicken eggs, regardless of their source, including those purchased from stores.
Final Thoughts
If your chickens occasionally indulge in dog poop, there is no cause for alarm. You will find that this situation is quite common among long-time chicken owners. However, it is not advisable to intentionally collect and introduce dog waste into the coop. But if your chickens stumble upon the occasional “doo-doo” and decide to peck at it, there is no need to fret. It may be unpleasant, but it is safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can chickens eat dog food?
A: To learn more about whether it is safe for chickens to eat dog food, check out our article here.
Q: What other strange things can chickens eat?
A: If you’re curious about what else chickens can consume, such as styrofoam, mice, oranges, or bananas, take a look at our articles here and here and here and here.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you catch your chickens munching on dog poop, there’s no need to panic. This behavior is relatively common among chickens and poses no significant health risks. However, it is always wise to exercise caution when handling raw eggs to prevent salmonella. So, let your chickens be chickens and enjoy their occasional peculiar culinary choices. For more information about raising and caring for chickens, visit Pawsoha, your trusted resource for all things poultry-related.