Looking to add a feathered friend to your family? Look no further than chickens! These adorable creatures are not only great egg-layers, but they also make fantastic pets for kids. With their gentle nature, sweet personalities, and charming appearances, chickens are some of the friendliest animals you can bring into your home. Plus, they’re much better companions than most traditional pets like cats or dogs. So if you’re ready to embark on an exciting journey with your little ones and raise some feathered beauties together, keep reading! In this article, we’ll introduce you to the 15 friendliest chicken breeds that will capture both your and your kids’ hearts. Get ready for cuteness overload and loads of fluffy cuddles ahead!
Why Raise Chickens for Your Kids
Raising chickens for your kids can be a truly rewarding experience, and it goes beyond just having fresh eggs on hand. These feathered friends make gentle and sweet pets that are perfect companions for children of all ages.
Chickens have an undeniable cuteness factor that is hard to resist. From their fluffy feathers to their adorable waddles, they’re sure to capture your heart from the moment you bring them home. And let’s not forget about those endearing clucks and chirps they make – music to any child’s ears!
But what sets chickens apart as great companions for kids is their gentle nature. Unlike some other animals, chickens are generally docile creatures who love being around humans. They enjoy being held and petted, making them ideal playmates for little ones.
Not only are chickens friendly and lovable, but they also make better pets than most animals in terms of care requirements. They don’t need constant attention or expensive toys – just a safe coop, fresh food, clean water, and regular check-ups from the veterinarian.
And let’s not forget about how pretty these birds can be! With a wide variety of breeds available, each with its own unique color patterns and features like feathered legs or beards (yes, really!), there’s no shortage of beauty when it comes to raising chickens.
So if you’re looking for an engaging pet that will teach your kids responsibility while providing hours of entertainment and affectionate interaction, raising chickens might just be the perfect choice for your family. Get ready to embark on this delightful adventure together!
15 Friendliest Chickens for Kids
People know friendly chicken breeds by different names like:
- Docile chickens
- Sweet chickens
- Nicest chickens
- Pet chickens
- Gentle chickens
- Cute chickens
- Pretty chickens and more
1. Buff Orpington
The Buff Orpington chicken is a delightful addition to any backyard flock. With its beautiful plain color and large size, it’s hard not to fall in love with these gentle giants. Their fluffy feathers give them an almost regal appearance, making them stand out among other breeds.
Not only are Buff Orpingtons pleasing to the eye, but they also have a sweet and calm temperament that makes them perfect for children. These chickens are known for their docile nature and friendly disposition, making them great companions for kids of all ages.
In addition to their friendly demeanor, Buff Orpingtons are excellent layers of brown eggs. This means your child will not only have a feathered friend but also a source of fresh breakfast treats! And let’s not forget about their size – these birds can grow quite big, which adds to their appeal as pets.
Whether you’re looking for a beautiful pet or an egg-laying companion for your children, the Buff Orpington is an ideal choice. With its stunning appearance and gentle nature, this breed will quickly become a beloved member of your family flock without fail
2. Brahma
The Brahma chicken, with its stunning appearance and unique feathered legs, is a favorite among kids. This gentle giant is known for its calm and friendly nature, making it an excellent choice for families with children.
With their majestic stature and beautiful plumage, Brahmas are sure to capture the hearts of both young and old alike. Their large size adds to their appeal, as they make quite the impression in any backyard flock.
But it’s not just their looks that make them popular pets for kids. Brahmas have a docile temperament that makes them easy to handle and interact with. They are not easily startled or aggressive, which means your little ones can enjoy spending time with these gentle giants without any worries.
Brahmas also have feathered legs, which gives them a distinct appearance compared to other chicken breeds. This feature adds to their charm and uniqueness, making them stand out in any flock.
Whether your child wants a chicken they can cuddle or simply admire from afar, the Brahma fits the bill perfectly. Its beauty combined with its friendly nature makes it one of the friendliest chickens for kids!
So if you’re looking for a chicken breed that will be a great companion for your children while also adding beauty to your backyard flock, consider getting some Brahmas. Your kids will love watching these magnificent birds strut around with their feathery legs!
4. Cochin
When it comes to choosing the friendliest chicken breeds for kids, one that definitely stands out is the Cochin. These chickens are not only big in size but also beautiful in appearance, making them a favorite among children and adults alike.
With their fluffy feathers and gentle demeanor, Cochins are known for being incredibly docile and friendly. They have a calm nature that makes them great companions for kids who want to interact with their feathered friends. Whether it’s cuddling or simply watching them roam around the backyard, Cochins are sure to bring joy to any child’s day.
One of the things that make Cochins so appealing is their unique appearance. Their large size combined with their abundance of soft feathers gives them an almost teddy bear-like look. Kids will love running their fingers through those feathery plumes and marveling at how beautiful they are.
Another great thing about Cochins is that they come in various colors, including black, white, blue, buff, partridge, and more. This means you can choose a Cochin that matches your child’s preferences or even get a mix of different-colored ones for added visual appeal.
Cochin chickens are also known for being excellent mothers if you decide to hatch eggs with your kids as part of an educational project. They have strong maternal instincts and will diligently care for their chicks while still maintaining their friendly disposition towards humans.
If you’re looking for a big and beautiful chicken breed that is gentle enough for children to handle easily without feeling overwhelmed by its size or behavior, then Cochin should be at the top of your list!
5. White Silkie
White Silkies are the epitome of cuddliness! These adorable chickens have a unique appearance with their fluffy white feathers that resemble soft clouds. And let’s not forget about those floppy feathers on their heads, which only adds to their charm!
What makes White Silkies even more lovable is their gentle and docile nature. They are known for being extremely friendly towards humans, making them perfect companions for kids. Your little ones will enjoy spending time with these sweet chickens and can even cuddle up with them.
Another great thing about White Silkies is that they don’t require much space to roam around. So if you have a small backyard or live in an urban area, these compact cuties could be the ideal choice for your family.
Aside from being adorable pets, White Silkies also lay eggs! Although they may not produce as many eggs as other breeds, the ones they do lay are creamy and delicious. Plus, seeing your child collect fresh eggs straight from the coop can be an exciting experience for everyone involved.
6. Polish
Polish chickens are truly one-of-a-kind when it comes to their appearance. With their fluffy crests and unique feather patterns, they never fail to catch the eye. These birds come in a variety of colors, including black, white, silver, gold, and even buff.
What sets Polish chickens apart is their extravagant crest of feathers on top of their heads. It gives them an almost regal appearance that is hard to resist. The crests can range from small tufts to large bouffant-like arrangements.
Their feathers are soft and delicate, making them look even more charming. And despite having limited visibility due to their crest design, these chickens manage just fine! They have adapted well and can still navigate around without any major issues.
Polish chickens have a friendly temperament which makes them excellent companions for children. They are gentle and docile by nature, making them easy to handle and interact with.
Kids will be captivated by the quirky appearance of Polish chickens as they strut around the yard or coop with confidence. So if you’re looking for a chicken breed that stands out from the crowd in terms of looks while also being friendly toward kids, then Polish chickens might just be the perfect choice!
7. Barred Plymouth Rock
Barred Plymouth Rock chickens are known for their beautiful and unique color pattern. Their feathers are striped with alternating bars of black and white, giving them a striking appearance that stands out in any flock.
Not only are they visually appealing, but Barred Plymouth Rocks also have a friendly and docile temperament, making them great companions for kids. They are calm and easy to handle, which is perfect for children who want to interact with their feathered friends.
These chickens are also excellent layers, producing large brown eggs regularly. So not only do they make wonderful pets, but they also provide your family with delicious fresh eggs each day. It’s a win-win situation!
Another advantage of raising Barred Plymouth Rocks is their hardiness. They can tolerate different climates well and adapt easily to various living conditions. Whether you live in a hot climate or a cold region, these chickens will thrive.
In addition to their beauty and friendly nature, Barred Plymouth Rocks are also quite intelligent birds. They quickly learn routines and can be trained to come when called or perform simple tricks – which can be an exciting activity for kids.
If you’re looking for a chicken breed that combines beauty, friendliness, egg production, adaptability, and intelligence all in one package – the Barred Plymouth Rock is an excellent choice!
8. Wyandottes
Wyandotte chickens are truly a sight to behold with their stunning laced feathers. Whether it’s the shimmering gold, elegant silver, or captivating blue lacing, these birds are one of the most beautiful you’ll find in any backyard flock.
Not only do Wyandottes have gorgeous plumage, but they also have a friendly and gentle nature that makes them perfect for kids. These chickens are known for their calm temperament and docile behavior, making them easy to handle and interact with.
In addition to their beauty and friendliness, Wyandottes are also great layers of brown eggs. So not only will your kids enjoy spending time with these feathered beauties, but they’ll also be treated to delicious fresh eggs!
Another benefit of raising Wyandottes is that they come in different varieties such as gold-laced, silver-laced, and blue-laced. Each variety has its own unique charm and adds visual interest to your flock.
Whether you choose the regal gold-laced Wyandotte or the striking silver-laced variety, you can’t go wrong with this breed when it comes to both aesthetics and personality. Your kids will fall in love with these majestic birds as they watch them strut around the yard with grace and elegance.
9. Salmon Faverolles
Salmon Faverolles, with their beautiful appearance and unique characteristics, make them a delightful addition to any family flock. These friendly chickens are known for their charming beards and muffs, which give them a distinct look that kids will adore.
Not only are Salmon Faverolles visually appealing, but they also have gentle temperaments that make them great companions for children. They are docile and enjoy human interaction, often seeking attention from their owners. Kids can spend hours watching these fluffy birds strut around the yard or even cuddling up to them.
In addition to their friendly nature, Salmon Faverolles are also excellent layers of light brown eggs. This means your little ones can witness the miracle of life firsthand as they collect fresh eggs each day from these lovely hens.
Another perk of raising Salmon Faverolles is their adaptability to various climates. Whether you live in a hot or cold region, these chickens can handle it all with ease.
Salmon Faverolles combine beauty with friendliness in one feathered package. Their unique appearance and gentle personalities make them an ideal choice for families looking to introduce chickens into their lives while creating lasting memories with their children.
10. Black Australorp
When it comes to the friendliest chickens for kids, one breed that stands out is the Black Australorp. Known for its beauty in black and impressive size, this chicken is sure to capture your child’s attention.
The Black Australorp has a striking appearance with its sleek, shiny black feathers. It’s like having a little feathered ninja running around your backyard! And don’t let their size intimidate you; these chickens are actually quite gentle and docile. In addition to being friendly, Black Australorps are also excellent egg layers. They have been known to produce up to 300 brown eggs per year! So not only will your kids enjoy their company, but they’ll also get fresh eggs as an added bonus.
Another great thing about Black Australorps is their adaptability. Whether you live in a warm or cold climate, these chickens can handle it all. They’re hardy birds that can thrive in various conditions without much fuss.
So if you’re looking for a beautiful and big chicken that will be gentle with your children, look no further than the Black Australorp. These friendly feathered friends will bring joy and companionship to your family while providing delicious eggs along the way.
11. Jersey Giant
The Jersey Giant chicken is a beautiful and majestic breed that kids will absolutely adore. These chickens are known for their large size, which makes them perfect for cuddling with little ones. Imagine your child snuggling up to this gentle giant – it’s a sight that warms the heart!
Not only are Jersey Giants big, but they also have stunning black feathers that make them stand out in any flock. Their shiny plumage gives them an air of elegance and sophistication. Your kids will be proud to show off their magnificent black friends to everyone who visits.
But it’s not just about looks with the Jersey Giant. These birds have a calm and docile temperament, which makes them great companions for children. They are known for being friendly and easygoing, making them a joy to be around.
In addition to being kid-friendly pets, Jersey Giants are also excellent egg layers. They can produce large brown eggs on a regular basis, providing your family with delicious and nutritious breakfast options.
So if you’re looking for a chicken breed that is both big in size and full of love, look no further than the Jersey Giant. Your kids will fall head over heels for these beautiful black feathered friends!
12. Light Sussex
The Light Sussex chicken is a stunning breed that will captivate both kids and adults alike with its beautiful color. With its pure white feathers accented by contrasting black markings, it presents a striking appearance in any backyard flock.
Not only are they visually appealing, but Light Sussex chickens also have a gentle nature that makes them an excellent choice for children. They are known for being docile and friendly, making them easy to handle and interact with. Kids will love spending time with these charming birds as they quickly become accustomed to human presence and enjoy being petted.
In addition to their friendly demeanor, Light Sussex chickens are also great egg layers. They produce large brown eggs on a consistent basis, which not only provides a valuable source of nutrition but can also be used in various delicious recipes.
Whether you’re looking to add some beauty to your backyard or teach your kids about responsibility through chicken keeping, the Light Sussex is an ideal choice. With their lovely coloration and amiable personality, these chickens are sure to bring joy and companionship to your family for years to come.
13. Beijing You
The Beijing You chicken is truly one-of-a-kind when it comes to its appearance. With its beard and feathered legs, this chicken stands out from the crowd in a unique and fascinating way.
When you first lay eyes on a Beijing You, you might do a double-take. Its beautiful plumage combined with its distinctive facial features makes it a real head-turner. The feathers on its legs add an extra touch of elegance that sets it apart from other breeds.
But don’t let its striking looks fool you – the Beijing You is also known for being friendly and gentle, making it a great choice for kids. Despite their ornate appearance, these chickens have sweet personalities and are often quite docile.
Whether your children want to cuddle up with them or simply admire their beauty from afar, the Beijing You will surely captivate their hearts. And as an added bonus, they’ll also provide fresh eggs for your family to enjoy!
14. Rhode Island Red
The Rhode Island Red is a beloved breed among chicken enthusiasts and it’s not hard to see why. These stunning birds are known for their vibrant red feathers that glisten in the sunlight, making them a true beauty to behold in any backyard flock.
But their appeal goes beyond just their appearance. Rhode Island Reds are also known for being friendly and docile, making them great companions for kids. They have calm temperaments and can easily be handled without getting agitated or aggressive.
In addition to being gentle and friendly, Rhode Island Reds are also fantastic egg layers. They consistently produce large brown eggs that are perfect for breakfast or baking projects with your little ones. So not only do they make wonderful pets, but they also provide you with a fresh supply of delicious eggs!
Another great thing about the Rhode Island Red is that they are quite low-maintenance chickens. They adapt well to various climates and environments, making them suitable for both urban and rural settings.
15. Cornish Cross Broiler
The Cornish Cross Broiler is a majestic and impressive chicken breed that will surely catch your eye with its large size and clean white feathers. They are known for their plumpness and meaty appearance, making them perfect for those who are looking to raise chickens for meat production.
These birds grow quickly and efficiently, reaching market weight in just 6-8 weeks. Their rapid growth rate makes them an ideal choice for those who want to have a steady supply of delicious homegrown chicken on their dinner table.
Despite their size, the Cornish Cross Broilers are surprisingly gentle and docile creatures. They may not be as cuddly as some of the other breeds mentioned earlier, but they still make great companions for children due to their calm nature.
In addition to being aesthetically pleasing with their clean white plumage, these chickens also have excellent hygiene habits. They tend to keep themselves quite tidy by dust bathing regularly, which helps keep their feathers pristine.
The Cornish Cross Broiler is an excellent choice if you’re interested in raising chickens specifically for meat production while still having a visually appealing bird in your backyard flock.
The Bottom Line
Raising chickens can be an incredibly rewarding experience for both kids and adults alike. Not only do they provide a steady supply of fresh eggs, but they also make gentle and affectionate pets. Chickens are often underestimated when it comes to being great companions, but their sweet nature, cute appearance, and friendly demeanor prove that they are better pets than most animals.
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