First chicken coop - you should avoid these 5 mistakes

The dream of having your own fresh eggs straight from the garden is becoming a reality for more and more Swiss families. The idea of going out into the garden in the morning and taking the still-warm eggs out of the nest is tempting. But between this idyllic image and the reality of keeping chickens often lie painful experiences - especially when it comes to the first chicken coop.

Many newcomers to keeping chickens make costly mistakes that could have been avoided. A coop that is too small, the wrong choice of materials or inadequate planning can not only affect the well-being of the chickens, but also lead to legal problems and high follow-up costs. In Switzerland, where animal welfare regulations are particularly strict and all chicken farming is subject to registration, these mistakes are particularly annoying.

Based on the experience of numerous chicken keepers, we have identified the five most common and costly mistakes when setting up your first chicken coop. With this guide, you can save yourself expensive repairs and create optimal conditions for your feathered friends right from the start.

The basics: What makes a good first chicken coop?

Before we look at the most common mistakes, it's important to understand what makes a well-designed first chicken coop. A good starter chicken coop differs from improvised solutions through well thought-out planning and proven functions.

The legal requirements form the basis: In Switzerland, chicken coops for 2-6 chickens must have a minimum floor area of 2 square meters and a height of 1.5 meters. However, these minimum values are only the starting point. For the well-being of the animals and the pleasure of the owner, more generous dimensions are recommended.

A well-designed first chicken coop takes all the chickens' basic needs into account: sufficient space to rest on perches, at least one nest per five chickens, a littered floor area and good ventilation without draughts. At the same time, it should be practical for people to use - easy cleaning, secure locking and weatherproof construction are essential.

The choice of material plays a decisive role in durability. While cheap sheds are often made of thin plywood or low-quality softwood, robust materials such as Douglas fir have proven themselves through their natural weather resistance and durability.

Important tip: Plan 20-30% more space than required by law right from the start. This buffer benefits animal welfare and gives you flexibility to expand the flock if necessary.

Mistake no. 1: Chicken coop too small - lack of space with consequences

By far the most common and most serious mistake when setting up your first chicken coop is underestimating the amount of space required. Many beginners are guided by cheap "chicken coops" from DIY stores or online retailers, which often don't even meet the minimum legal requirements.

Why does this mistake happen so often? Commercially available small coops are often advertised with misleading information. A coop advertised as "suitable for 4-6 chickens" sometimes only has 1.5 square meters of floor space - well below the legal 2 square meters. Particularly problematic are coops less than 1 meter high, in which no proper perch installation is possible.

The consequences of a lack of space:

Stress and aggression among the chickens
Feather pecking and cannibalism
Poor air quality and susceptibility to disease
Legal problems with inspections
Need to buy a completely new coop

How to avoid this mistake: Calculate at least 0.5 square meters per hen, preferably 0.8 square meters. A floor area of 3-4 square meters is ideal when starting out with 3-4 chickens. When selecting chicken coops, pay attention to the actual internal dimensions, not the external dimensions.

Checklist for sufficient coop size:

At least 2 m² for up to 6 chickens (legal)
Recommended: 3-4 m² for 3-4 chickens (optimal)
Minimum height 1.5 m, better 1.8-2 m
Space for 2 perches at different heights
Sufficient space for feed and water dispensers

When choosing chicken coops, you should opt for tried and tested designs that offer sufficient space and all the necessary facilities. Models with a modular design also allow for later extensions if your flock of chickens grows.

Chicken coop sizes at a glance:

When choosing the right coop size, there are various categories available based on the number of chickens. Compact coops are suitable for 2-3 chickens with a floor area of 2-3 m² and a total height of 1.5-1.8 m and are ideal for beginners. Standard chicken coops for 3-6 chickens offer 4-6 m² of floor space with a height of 1.8-2 m and are the most commonly chosen size. Comfort models for 6-8 chickens have a floor area of 6-8 m² with a height of at least 2 m and often come with conservatory areas. Premium coops for 8 or more chickens offer 8+ m² of floor space with a minimum height of 2 m and are characterized by modular expansion options.

Mistake no. 2: Wrong choice of materials - short-term savings, long-term losses

The second big mistake concerns the choice of materials. Many beginners opt for cheaply advertised stables made of inferior materials and end up paying for it in the long term - through frequent repairs, poor stable climate or complete replacement after a few years.

Typical material defects in cheap stables: Thin plywood or OSB boards swell when exposed to moisture and become brittle. Untreated softwood rots quickly and does not offer sufficient protection from the weather. Fittings made of cheap metal rust and become unsafe. Plastic parts become brittle and break in frost.

Why Douglas fir wood is the best choice: Douglas fir wood has proven to be the ideal material for chicken coops. It is naturally weather-resistant, durable and offers excellent insulating properties. The natural resins protect against pests and rot. At the same time, wood regulates humidity and creates a healthy climate in the coop.

Further quality features of robust stables:

Wall thickness of at least 19mm, better 20-25mm
Sturdy frames made of squared timber 45x45mm or thicker
Galvanized or stainless steel fittings
Quality mesh with narrow mesh width
Roof made of durable material (trapezoidal sheet metal, roofing felt)

The hidden costs of cheap materials: A barn for 400 francs may seem tempting, but often leads to follow-up costs of 200-500 francs a year for repairs and improvements. A high-quality hutch for 1,500 francs, on the other hand, will last 10-15 years without major maintenance.

Quality tip: When choosing chicken coops made of Douglas fir wood, you are investing in longevity. The higher purchase costs will pay for themselves through lower maintenance costs and better animal health.

Mistake no. 3: Ignoring the choice of location - the wrong place takes its revenge

Another critical mistake is the ill-considered choice of location. Many newcomers set up their first chicken coop wherever there is space, without considering the long-term effects.

Common location mistakes:

Too sunny a location leads to overheating in summer
Shady north side remains too cold and damp
Sinks collect rainwater and create waterlogging
Wind-exposed locations cause draughts
Too close to the neighboring property leads to conflicts

The ideal location: A good chicken coop location offers morning sun for the chickens' natural daily rhythm, protection from the intense midday sun and wind protection from cold north and east winds. The soil should be well drained and slightly raised to avoid waterlogging.

Checklist for choosing a location:

Morning sun: east-facing for natural awakening
Midday protection: shade or canopy from 11 am to 3 pm
Wind protection: Protection from cold north/east winds
Drainage: Elevated position, no water accumulation
Access: Easy access for maintenance and cleaning
Neighbors: Observe minimum distances (often 3-5 meters)

Subsequent location correction: If the location was chosen suboptimally, this can often still be corrected with modular barn systems. Smaller stables can be moved, larger ones may require additional shade or wind protection.

Legal aspects: Check with your local authority about minimum distances from neighboring properties. Many municipalities require a distance of 3-5 meters from the property line. A polite prior agreement with the neighbors can avoid trouble later on.

Mistake no. 4: Forgetting the equipment - the interior makes all the difference

Many newcomers concentrate on the exterior of their first chicken coop and forget the important interior fittings. Poorly placed or missing furnishings lead to stress for the chickens and annoyance for the owner.

Frequently forgotten or incorrectly placed elements:

Perches - The most common equipment error: perches are the most important resting place for chickens. They must be positioned at least 50 cm above the floor and have 50 cm of free space to the ceiling. A perch length of at least 14 cm is required per hen. Common mistakes: mounted too low, too thin (optimum diameter 3-4 cm) or too few perches.

Nests - more is not always better: at least one nest per 5 hens is mandatory, but too many nests are misused as roosts. Nests should be placed darker and quieter than the rest of the coop. An approach bar in front of the nest facilitates access.

Feed and water dispensers: These must be positioned so that all hens can eat at the same time, but not under the perches (soiling from droppings). Elevated placement prevents litter from being scrapped in.

Dust bathing area: Chickens need regular dust baths for plumage care. A small corner with sand or special litter fulfills this purpose.

Optimal equipment list:

2-3 perches at different heights
1 nest per 3-5 chickens (depending on group size)
Elevated feeding and watering places
Dust bathing area or tub
Sufficient ventilation without draughts
Artificial lighting for short winter days

When selecting chicken coops, make sure that the basic equipment has already been optimally thought out and positioned. Subsequent changes to perches or nests are often difficult and costly.

Practical tip: Keep a close eye on your chickens in the first few weeks. Are all perches being used? Are the hens laying in the intended nests? Small adjustments at the beginning will save you having to make major changes later on.

Mistake no. 5: Underestimating safety - when foxes and martens come

The fifth big mistake concerns safety. Many beginners underestimate the threat of predators and wake up one morning to a decimated or completely missing flock of chickens.

The underestimated threat: In Switzerland, foxes, martens, weasels and occasionally hawks are a real threat to chickens. Even in urban areas, foxes penetrate into residential areas. An unsecured chicken coop is no obstacle for these skillful hunters.

Frequent security deficiencies:

Too large-meshed grids (optimal: 13x13mm)
Unsecured floor openings
Weak latches that can be pushed open
Lack of roofing over the outlet
Insufficient lighting/visual protection

Professional safety features: A secure chicken coop has fine mesh fencing that also keeps weasels out. All openings must be lockable, including ventilation slits. Doors need secure bolts or even padlocks. The outlet should not only be protected from the side, but also from above.

Proven safety measures:

Grid with mesh size 13x13mm or narrower
Earth inlet or concrete foundation to prevent undermining
Double locking at all entrances
Canopy or net over the outlet
Automatic door closure in the dark
Lighting with motion detector

The comfort factor: Safety measures must not be at the expense of ease of use. When selecting chicken coops, make sure that all safety elements can be operated easily and reliably. Complicated locks are often handled carelessly in practice.

Insurance aspects: Check with your household contents insurance company whether chickens are covered. Some insurers require certain safety measures or exclude damage caused by predators.

Threats and protective measures for chicken coops:

Different predators and other threats require specific protection measures with varying costs and levels of effectiveness. The best protection against foxes is fine-mesh fencing with medium costs and very high effectiveness. Martens can be kept out at low cost and with a high level of effectiveness using secure locking systems. Hawks require the run to be covered, which is associated with medium costs but is highly effective. Weasels are kept out cheaply and very effectively by particularly close-meshed grids with a 13x13mm mesh size. An earth inlet or foundation provides the most effective protection against intrusion from below (e.g. by digging animals), but is expensive but very effective.

Checklist for the perfect first chicken coop

Size and dimensions:

At least 2 m² floor space for up to 6 chickens
Better 3-4 m² for 3-4 chickens (optimum entry)
Minimum height 1.5 m, recommended 1.8-2 m
Sufficient space for all equipment

Material and workmanship:

Robust wood (e.g. Douglas fir) instead of plywood
Wall thickness at least 19 mm
Sturdy frame construction
Galvanized or stainless steel fittings

Location and orientation:

Morning sun (east-facing)
Protection from midday heat
Sheltered from the wind
Well-drained ground
Sufficient distance from neighbors

Equipment and furnishings:

2+ perches at different heights
1 nest per 3-5 chickens
Elevated feed and water points
Dust bathing area available
Sufficient ventilation without draughts

Safety and protection:

Fine-mesh grid (13x13mm or narrower)
Secure locks on all openings
Protection against undermining
Covering of the outlet
Simple but safe operation

Legal aspects:

Chicken keeping registered with the municipality/canton
Minimum distances to neighbors observed
Building regulations of the municipality checked
Insurance cover clarified

Summarized: The 5 most important points for your first chicken coop

Generous planning: Choose a coop that is 30-50% larger than legally required for optimum animal welfare
Quality materials: Invest in robust materials such as Douglas fir wood for long-term satisfaction
Well thought-out location: Morning sun, midday protection and good drainage are crucial for success
Complete equipment: perches, nests and feeders must be correctly dimensioned from the outset
Maximum security: Fine-meshed grids and secure closures protect against costly losses
Modular systems: Expandable hutch systems offer flexibility for growing requirements
Professional advice: When selecting chicken coops, it pays to seek expert advice for optimal solutions

Frequently asked questions about your first chicken coop

How big should my first chicken coop be? When starting out with 3-4 chickens, we recommend a floor area of 3-4 m² and a height of at least 1.8 m. This corresponds to around 1.5 times the minimum legal requirements and offers optimum animal welfare.

Which material is best for the first chicken coop? Douglas fir wood has proven to be the ideal material: weather-resistant, durable, naturally insulating and free from chemical treatments. It is worth the investment in quality.

Do I have to register my first chicken coop? Yes, in Switzerland every chicken coop has to be registered - even if you only have 2 chickens. Registration takes place at the cantonal coordination office (usually the veterinary office).

How many chickens are ideal to start with? 3-4 chickens are ideal for beginners. This group size is manageable, fulfills the chickens' social needs and provides enough eggs for a small family.

Can I enlarge a coop that is too small? That depends on the design. Modular coop systems can usually be extended, whereas closed constructions often have to be completely replaced. You should therefore plan generously from the outset.

How much does a good first chicken coop cost? You should budget CHF 1,500-3,000 for a high-quality starter chicken coop. Cheaper models under CHF 1,000 are often not durable or legally compliant.

Where is the best place to set up the chicken coop? A slightly elevated, well-drained location with morning sun and protection from the midday heat is ideal. Ensure sufficient distance from neighboring properties and good accessibility for maintenance.

Do I need planning permission for the chicken coop? Usually not for smaller hobby coops, but check the local building regulations. Some municipalities have special regulations for keeping animals in residential areas.

How do I protect the chickens from foxes and martens? Use fine-mesh fencing (13x13mm), secure latches and also protect against undermining. Automatic door closers in the dark also increase security.

What equipment is essential for the first chicken coop? Essential are: 2+ perches at different heights, at least one nest, raised feed and water points, ventilation without draughts and a dust bathing area for plumage care.

Conclusion: investing in quality pays off

The first chicken coop sets the course for years of chicken keeping. The most common mistakes - too small dimensions, inferior materials, ill-considered choice of location, inadequate equipment and insufficient safety - can be avoided through careful planning and investment in quality.

When selecting chicken coops, you should not cut corners. A high-quality coop made of Douglas fir wood with a well thought-out design and complete equipment may be more expensive initially, but will save you money in the long term thanks to lower maintenance costs and improved animal health. Modular systems also offer the flexibility to expand at a later date.

Remember: your chickens will live in this coop for the next 5-8 years. Generous planning and investment in quality create the basis for happy chickens, fresh eggs and years of enjoyment from keeping chickens. With the right preparation, you can avoid the typical beginner's mistakes and make a successful start in the fascinating world of chicken keeping.

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