Raising chickens in a tiny house presents unique challenges and opportunities for homesteaders and urban farmers. With limited space, careful planning and creative solutions are essential to ensure the well-being of both the chickens and their human caretakers. By implementing smart strategies, it’s possible to successfully raise a small flock even in the most compact living situations.

Tiny house dwellers who dream of fresh eggs and the companionship of feathered friends need not give up on their poultry aspirations. From maximizing vertical space to choosing the right breeds, there are numerous ways to make chicken-keeping a reality in small-scale living environments. This article explores seven practical tips to help tiny house residents create a thriving mini-farm within their limited square footage.

1) Optimize coop space efficiently

Maximizing limited space is crucial when raising chickens in a tiny house. The coop should provide 3-4 square feet of indoor space per chicken. This ensures each bird has enough room to move comfortably.

Vertical space can be utilized effectively with elevated nesting boxes and roosts. Installing removable perches at different heights allows chickens to roost naturally while saving floor space.

Efficient storage solutions are essential. Wall-mounted feeders and waterers keep the floor clear and reduce mess. Hooks or shelves can hold cleaning supplies and other necessities.

Consider a modular coop design with removable dividers. This flexibility allows for adjusting the layout as needed. It also simplifies cleaning and maintenance tasks.

Dual-purpose furniture, like a nesting box that doubles as a storage unit, maximizes functionality in tight quarters. Every inch counts in a tiny house chicken coop.

A fold-down or sliding door between the coop and run area can create more usable space when open. This design allows chickens to freely access both areas during the day.

2) Choose bantam breeds

Bantam chickens are an excellent choice for tiny house living due to their small size. These miniature birds require less space than standard breeds, making them ideal for confined environments.

When selecting bantam breeds, consider factors like temperament, egg production, and adaptability to your climate. Popular options include Silkie Bantams, known for their fluffy, silk-like feathers and friendly nature.

Japanese Bantams are another compact and amiable breed well-suited to small spaces. Cochin Bantams, originating from China, are adorable and docile, making them great companions for families.

For those in colder climates, some bantam breeds are more cold-hardy than others. Research breeds that can tolerate your specific environmental conditions to ensure their health and comfort.

Ameraucana Bantams are known for their blue-tinted eggs and ability to withstand colder temperatures. These unique birds can add variety to your flock while thriving in a tiny house setting.

Remember that bantam chickens generally lay smaller eggs than standard breeds. However, their reduced feed consumption and space requirements make them an efficient choice for small-scale egg production in limited spaces.

3) Implement vertical roosts

Vertical roosts maximize space in tiny house chicken coops. These structures allow chickens to perch at different heights, mimicking their natural roosting behavior in trees.

Install sturdy wooden bars or dowels at various levels along the coop walls. Space them about 12-18 inches apart vertically and horizontally to accommodate different chicken sizes.

Ensure the highest roosts are at least 2 feet below the coop ceiling to prevent head injuries. The lowest roosts should be about 18 inches off the ground for easy access.

Use rounded edges on roosts to provide comfort for chicken feet. Wooden roosts with a 2-3 inch diameter work well for most breeds.

Position roosts away from feeding and nesting areas to maintain cleanliness. This separation helps reduce the spread of droppings and keeps the coop more hygienic.

Incorporate a sloped “poop board” beneath the roosts to catch droppings. This feature simplifies cleaning and maintains a healthier environment for the chickens.

4) Utilize multi-purpose furniture

In a tiny house, making the most of limited space is crucial when raising chickens. Multi-purpose furniture can be a game-changer for chicken owners living in compact areas.

Consider incorporating a nesting box that doubles as a storage unit. This can provide a comfortable laying area for hens while offering extra space to keep chicken feed and supplies organized.

A foldable or collapsible coop can be an excellent solution for those with fluctuating space needs. These structures can be expanded during the day and compacted at night, maximizing available floor area.

Opt for benches or ottomans with built-in storage compartments. These pieces can serve as seating for humans and storage for chicken-related items, keeping the living area tidy and functional.

Wall-mounted perches that fold down when needed can provide roosting space for chickens without permanently occupying valuable floor real estate. This allows for flexibility in the coop’s layout.

By incorporating these multi-functional furniture pieces, tiny house dwellers can create an efficient and comfortable environment for both themselves and their feathered friends.

5) Provide dust baths indoors

Dust baths are essential for chickens’ health and happiness, even in a tiny house setup. Create a dedicated indoor dust bathing area using a large, shallow container filled with a mixture of fine sand, diatomaceous earth, and wood ash.

Place the container in a corner of the coop or run where it won’t interfere with other activities. Ensure the area has proper ventilation to prevent dust accumulation in the living space.

Introduce chickens to the dust bath by sprinkling some feed nearby or lightly scratching the surface. They will quickly discover and start using it.

Maintain the dust bath regularly by removing any droppings and refreshing the mixture as needed. This helps keep parasites at bay and allows chickens to clean their feathers effectively.

In a tiny house, space is limited, so consider a portable dust bath option. Use a shallow storage container with a lid that can be stored when not in use and brought out during designated times.

By providing an indoor dust bath, chickens can engage in this natural behavior year-round, regardless of weather conditions. This contributes to their overall well-being and hygiene in a confined living space.

6) Use odor-control bedding

Proper bedding is crucial for managing odors in a tiny house chicken coop. Effective odor-control bedding absorbs moisture and neutralizes smells, creating a healthier environment for both chickens and humans.

Pine shavings are a popular choice due to their absorbency and pleasant scent. They help keep the coop dry and reduce ammonia buildup from chicken droppings.

Hemp bedding is another excellent option. It’s highly absorbent, biodegradable, and naturally resistant to bacteria and fungi. Hemp bedding can hold up to four times its weight in moisture.

Recycled paper bedding is also effective for odor control. It’s dust-free and can be easily composted after use. This option is particularly suitable for chickens with respiratory sensitivities.

Regular cleaning and replacement of bedding are essential for odor management. Aim to change the bedding at least once a week, or more frequently if needed.

Consider using a deep litter method, which involves adding fresh bedding on top of existing layers. This technique can help control odors and create beneficial composting action within the coop.

7) Install predator-proof fences

Protecting chickens from predators is crucial, especially in a tiny house setting where space is limited. A well-designed predator-proof fence is essential for keeping the flock safe.

Choose sturdy materials like hardware cloth or welded wire mesh with small openings. These materials prevent predators from squeezing through or reaching in to grab chickens.

Bury the fence at least 12 inches deep to deter digging predators such as foxes and dogs. Extend the fence high enough to prevent jumping or climbing animals from entering.

Consider adding an electric wire along the top and bottom of the fence for extra protection. This can deter persistent predators like raccoons and coyotes.

Ensure all gates and entry points are secure with predator-proof latches. Regular inspection and maintenance of the fence are necessary to identify and repair any weak spots or damage.

For aerial predators, install netting or a solid roof over the chicken run. This protects against hawks and other birds of prey that may attempt to swoop down on the flock.

Understanding Space Requirements

Providing adequate space for chickens in a tiny house is crucial for their health and well-being. The right setup and breed selection can maximize limited space while ensuring happy, productive hens.

Optimal Tiny House Setup for Chickens

In a tiny house, every square inch counts. Chickens need 3-4 square feet of coop space per bird. For a flock of three hens, aim for a 9-12 square foot coop. Utilize vertical space with multi-level perches and nesting boxes.

Install lofts as sleeping quarters to separate resting areas from ground activities. This efficient use of vertical space keeps the coop organized and chickens comfortable.

Create an outdoor run with 8-10 square feet per chicken. Use vertical gardening on fences or walls to maximize space and provide fresh treats. Consider a portable coop design for easy cleaning and relocation.

Choosing the Right Breed

Smaller chicken breeds are ideal for tiny house living. Bantams, Silkies, and Australorps are excellent choices. These compact birds require less space and still lay a good number of eggs.

Bantams need only 1-2 square feet of coop space each, making them perfect for very limited areas. Silkies are docile and well-suited to confined spaces. Australorps are quiet, adaptable, and prolific layers.

Consider the temperament of breeds when selecting. Calm, friendly chickens are better suited to close quarters. Avoid larger or more active breeds that may feel cramped in a tiny house setup.

Feeding and Nutrition

Proper nutrition is crucial for raising healthy chickens in a tiny house. Limited space requires creative solutions to ensure chickens receive a balanced diet and necessary supplements.

Diet Essentials in Limited Spaces

In a tiny house, efficient feed storage is key. Use airtight containers to keep feed fresh and protect it from pests. Opt for high-quality, nutrient-dense feed to maximize nutritional value in smaller quantities.

Consider vertical storage options like wall-mounted feeders to save floor space. Automatic feeders can help regulate portions and reduce waste.

For young chickens, provide a starter feed with 18-20% protein. Adult layers need 16-18% protein with added calcium for strong eggshells. Offer grit separately to aid digestion.

Supplementing Feed for Better Health

Enhance your chickens’ diet with kitchen scraps and garden produce. Leafy greens, vegetables, and fruits provide essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid toxic foods like avocado, chocolate, and raw beans.

Create a small herb garden with plants like oregano, thyme, and mint. These herbs offer natural health benefits and can be added to feed or nesting boxes.

Consider sprouting grains to increase nutritional value. This method requires minimal space and provides fresh, living food for chickens.

Offer crushed eggshells or oyster shells as a calcium supplement. This is especially important for laying hens to maintain strong eggshells.