Don’t bathe chickens. There is no need unless there is a medical condition.
If they are dust bathing that much, they probably have mites or something
this post was submitted on 06 Feb 2026
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Backyard Chickens (and Other Birds)
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There's shampoos that are safer for animals, it's not unheard of to wash animals but completely unnecessary based on what you're describing. So long as you don't do it too often or cause undue stress, it's your time and money so go for it.
Alternatively, you could provide them with specific dust to bath in that won't discolor them. You can mix herbs and perfumed things in to the dust which can even have some health benefits.
You ought to find out what's causing them to do that, if it's normal for them or something threatening them. Fixing the symptom won't cure the disease.
Anyone who dictates the lives of the animals they care for based on aesthetic opinion alone should have their license revoked imo
Dust bathing is normal for chicken. Its just that I dont like to see my chickens dirty lol
This is a really bad attitude. Chickens are animals. Animals are dirty. Washing animals can be harmful to their skin and cause issues.
Don’t have chickens if this is your attitude.
Consult with your vet
Find cleaner dust then. You won't be able to stop their instincts.