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The Dominique chicken, also known as the Dominicker or Pilgrim Fowl, is one of the oldest American chicken breeds, dating back to the colonial period. Known for its distinctive barred plumage, the Dominique is a dual-purpose breed valued for both meat and egg production. It was officially recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1874.
- Medium-sized birds
- Black and white barred plumage
- Rose comb, red wattles, and earlobes
- Yellow skin and legs
- Typically weigh around 5-7 pounds
- Well-rounded body with a slightly upright stance
BREED & ORIGIN
Dominique
&
United States
LIFE EXPECTANCY
6-8 years
HEIGHT & WEIGHT
Height:14”-16” (35-41 cm)
&
Weight:Roosters: 7 lbs (3.2 kg)
Hens: 5 lbs (2.3 kg)
Chick (0-8 weeks)
Pullet/Cockerel (8-20 weeks)
Layer/Rooster (20+ weeks)
LOW
MEDIUM
HIGH
Temperament
Calm, friendly, and hardy
Activity Level
Active foragers, adapt well to both free-range and confinement
Climate Tolerance
Adaptable to various climates
Genetic Traits
Hardiness, good egg production, and meat quality
Egg Laying Capacity
Moderate; 230-270 eggs per year
Broodiness
Moderate tendency, good mothers
Feeding
A balanced diet is essential for their health and productivity. A commercial layer feed should be supplemented with access to grit and oyster shell to ensure strong eggshells. They benefit from free-ranging to consume insects and plants.
Housing
Dominiques require a well-ventilated coop with sufficient space. A minimum of 4 square feet per bird inside the coop and 10 square feet per bird in the run is recommended. They adapt well to both free-range and confined settings.
Health
Dominiques are generally hardy birds with few health issues. Regular health checks for common poultry ailments such as mites, lice, and respiratory infections are important. Maintaining a clean living environment can prevent many health problems.
Breeding Practices:
When breeding Dominiques, select birds with desirable traits such as good egg production, proper body conformation, and typical color patterns. The incubation period for their eggs is about 21 days.
Raising Chicks:
Dominique chicks are hardy and grow at a moderate rate. Provide a warm brooder environment (starting at 95°F and gradually decreasing) until they are fully feathered at about 6-8 weeks. Offer chick starter feed and clean water. Gradually introduce them to the flock when they are big enough to integrate smoothly.
Nutritional Needs:
Dominiques require a balanced diet to support their egg production and maintain their size. Commercial layer feeds usually meet their needs. Supplement with grit for digestion and provide access to fresh greens when possible.
Dominiques have played a significant role in American poultry history, being one of the oldest breeds developed in the United States. They are valued by small-scale farmers and backyard chicken keepers for their dual-purpose qualities and hardiness.
Culturally, the Dominique represents an important part of American agricultural heritage, particularly in early colonial settlements.
Category |
Details |
|---|---|
Origin |
United States |
Temperature |
Calm, friendly, and hardy |
Common Health Issues |
Generally healthy, no breed-specific issues |
Commercial Use |
Used for both egg and meat production, especially in small-scale farming |
Backyard Use |
Popular for good egg production, hardiness, and friendly nature |
Breed Standards |
Admitted to American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection in 1874 |
Exhibition |
Judged based on breed standards including feather color, comb type, and overall condition |
Role in Culture |
Significant in American agricultural heritage |
Population Status |
Listed as "Watch" by The Livestock Conservancy |
Conservation Efforts |
Ongoing efforts to preserve the breed |
Breeding Practices |
Breeders focus on selecting birds with desirable dual-purpose traits and maintaining genetic diversity |
Fertility Rates |
Generally good |
Parasite Control |
Standard poultry parasite control measures apply |
Market Value |
Chicks typically cost $3-$6 each |
Cost of Raising |
Approximately $30-$40 per chicken per year, depending on feed costs and housing |
- Good egg production (230-270 eggs per year)
- Hardy and adaptable to various climates
- Calm and friendly temperament
- Good dual-purpose breed (eggs and meat)
- Excellent foragers
- Less common, may be harder to find
- Not as prolific in egg-laying as some specialized breeds
- May be outperformed by modern hybrid breeds for commercial purposes
Dominiques typically start laying eggs at around 20-24 weeks of age.