Chickens are a great investment, but it’s just as important to give them the proper space to prosper. Installing the right custom coop or pre-built shed allows your livestock to remain healthy and happy, so prioritizing their needs before committing will save you from additional headaches in the future. Whether you have six or 60 chickens, keep the following in mind while shopping around for the perfect coop.

How to Choose the Right Coop

1. Size

Determining how much space your poultry needs is the most crucial factor in choosing the right coop. Chickens become stressed and can pass harmful diseases and parasites when they’re cramped in tight quarters. Giving them proper ventilation and more room to spread out is always the healthier option, so it’s optimal to give two to three square feet per chicken inside your coop.

2. Functionality

Some livestock owners prefer easier usability to lower upkeep and maintenance. Many modern coops come with convenient features like retractable roofs, adjustable ventilation, and pull out litter trays. These options give your poultry more comfort while making daily tasks, like cleaning and egg retrieval, easier to accomplish.

3. Protection

If you’re concerned about losing out on your investment, purchase a coop that keeps your livestock safe from other animals. Installing proper protection depends on what kinds of predators are prevalent in your location. To repel critters, such as raccoons, from above and below, find a pre-built shed or coop with sturdy flooring elevated from the ground and overhead netting. If you’re worried about larger creatures, like foxes and coyotes, pick a hen house with a well-secured latch and a separate space to keep fresh eggs.

4. Outdoor Space

While it may not be possible to have free range on your property, giving your livestock ample opportunity in the open air is beneficial for their health and well-being. Providing an adequate chicken run with strong steel fencing, grounding with natural drainage, and enough space—typically eight to 10 square feet per bird—allows them to roam freely. If you’re working with a smaller space, choose a coop that has a run area underneath and to the side of the main structure.

Once you’ve decided on what your perfect chicken coop needs, let The Wooden Branch handle the rest. Serving Dayton and central Ohio, for over two decades, they have an extensive inventory of pre-built sheds, coops, and hen houses in various shapes, sizes, and makes. They also have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau®. Preview their coops online or call (937) 382-7337 for a free consultation.