Yes, compost that chicken manure! If you use a deep-bedding method, letting the manure and bedding just form a deep "pack" until you are ready to do a full clean-out (say, in the spring), it will already be half-way composted before it ever gets on the manure pile or compost pile. With only three, the hens will almost certainly keep it well scratched up and aerated (otherwise, you'd need to fork it around a bit if it forms a rather stiff "cap" due to the hens walking on it more than scratching). Make sure the actual poo is well mixed with some sort of carbonaceous bedding--pure manure actually makes not-so-good compost, and will take longer to break down, than when it's mixed with bedding. If you're worried about any smells once the coop is cleaned onto the compost pile, just cover the pile with old hay, straw, weeds, leaves--whatever does the job. It not only will help maintain the pile's heat and moisture for better composting, it will also
act as a biological barrier against smells.
<<"LEAVE IT!">>
That's one command all our foxhounds must learn--whether it's dallying behind over an interesting smell when they should be staying with the pack, or "running riot" (literally, chasing something that isn't approved quarry). I'm a whipper-in (yup, that's where the political term "party whip" comes from!) so I use the command fairly often... followed, if necessary, by an admonitory flick with the hunting whip--better that than a hound get lost or run into traffic. Same deal with your dog. I like the long leash advice--certainly another good way to give a long-distance correction!
Rhonda
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