Yesterday we caught our two great pyrennes puppies (about 4 months old) eating one of our chickens. They spent the first 3 months with the chickens in their run during the day so this isn't new to them. They also have never shown any aggression to the chickens and still don't. However, they do like to play and will try to romp with them and then will chase them if they run - which they always do. The puppies have a happy smile and are waving their tales while giving chase. This doesn't seem like they want to eat them every chance they get.
When I saw what was happening, I ran out there, growled at them, and made sure the dogs knew this was not "ok".
My theory is they were playing with the chicken and things got a little rough. I'm not sure why they starting eating though and that has me concerned.
I spent today taking chickens, calling the dogs over, and telling them this is my chicken. I've been holding the chickens to their nose and letting them smell and lick them while repeating the words "guard" and "gentle". So far, they haven't tried to eat one again. I also let the chickens free range during the day and the dogs don't seem to care about them until they decide they want to play.
Is what I'm experiencing normal? Why would they eat the dead one? Am I responding correctly? Should I be doing something else?
Any advice would be much appreciated.
When I saw what was happening, I ran out there, growled at them, and made sure the dogs knew this was not "ok".
My theory is they were playing with the chicken and things got a little rough. I'm not sure why they starting eating though and that has me concerned.
I spent today taking chickens, calling the dogs over, and telling them this is my chicken. I've been holding the chickens to their nose and letting them smell and lick them while repeating the words "guard" and "gentle". So far, they haven't tried to eat one again. I also let the chickens free range during the day and the dogs don't seem to care about them until they decide they want to play.
Is what I'm experiencing normal? Why would they eat the dead one? Am I responding correctly? Should I be doing something else?
Any advice would be much appreciated.