The Dominique is an American breed of chicken, characterized by black-and-white barred plumage and a rose comb. It is considered to be the oldest American chicken breed, and is thought to derive from birds brought to America by colonists from southern England. It was well known by about 1750, and by the mid-nineteenth century was widely distributed in the eastern United States. It is a dual-purpose breed, but is kept principally for its brown eggs. It became an endangered breed in the twentieth century, but numbers have since recovered.
The Dominique chicken is well-suited to a variety of environments, especially those found in rural and suburban farm settings across the United States. It can adapt to free-range conditions, where it can forage for food, as well as confined spaces provided they are given enough room to roam. They are generally hardy birds, able to withstand both hot and cold climates, making them versatile for many regions.
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 4/5
The Dominique is recognized for its resilience and adaptability, often praised for its ability to thrive in different climates. It has a calm temperament and is well-suited to backyard environments, making it a favorite among small-scale farmers and hobbyists. The breed is also known for being good mothers and is often used for hatching eggs naturally.
A six-month-old pullet
Head of a hen