by Dakota Storage Buildings, on July 14, 2025
Raising chickens in your backyard gives you fresh eggs, garden-friendly compost, and the simple joy of tending to a flock.
But regardless of your setup, the size of your shed chicken coop matters just as much as the birds you choose. Too small, and your flock gets stressed. Too large, and you might be dealing with wasted space or an awkward fit in your yard.
Whether you live in a compact city lot or a spacious rural homestead, choosing the best backyard chicken coop that fits your space makes flock care easier, cleaner, and more enjoyable.
At Dakota, we offer coops in a wide range of sizes and styles, so you can find one that’s just right for your space and your flock.
Compact Coops for Smaller Backyards
If you live in a city or have a small yard, then you know the challenge of wanting to raise chickens, but not having a ton of space to work with. That’s where our compact coops are a great solution.
Ideal for 14–16 chickens, these coops are space-savvy without sacrificing comfort or ventilation. They’re low-maintenance and designed to fit neatly into side yards, patios, or garden corners, making them a great option for tight city lots or homeowners looking for a low-profile solution.
Despite their small size, these shed chicken coops are built with the same high-quality materials as our larger structures. Your birds will still enjoy roosting space, nesting boxes, and airflow to stay healthy in all seasons. Our compact models also come with easy-clean floors and exterior egg collection doors, giving you added convenience in a smaller footprint.
Plus, their size makes them easier to move or reposition if needed, which is perfect for renters or anyone who wants flexibility.
Our 6x12 coops are a great option for:
- City backyards
- Townhomes or duplexes with shared outdoor space
- First-time chicken owners
Mid-Size Coops With Just the Right Balance
Have a bit more space in your backyard? A mid-size coop may be the perfect fit.
Designed for 25–28 chickens, these coops strike a balance between size and functionality. They provide plenty of room for birds to roost and nest, plus space for extras like hanging feeders, waterers, or even built-in storage for supplies.
With a larger footprint, you'll also have better airflow and easier access for cleaning, which is important for maintaining a happy, healthy flock.
Mid-size coops also give you room to grow. Many suburban chicken keepers start with a few birds, only to realize they want to add more. These shed chicken coops make that transition easier, without needing to upgrade your entire setup or invest in a new coop.
You can integrate the coop into your existing backyard layout with customized colors and trim styles that match your home or garden aesthetic.
Our 10x12 coops are best for:
- Suburban homes with average-sized yards
- Families expanding their flock
- Coop keepers looking for additional storage space inside
Large Coops for Homesteaders, Hobby Farms, and More
If you’ve got the land, you’ve got the flexibility, and our larger shed-style coops make the most of it.
Great for 25–30+ chickens, these structures are more than just coops. They’re spaces that can double as a garden shed, feed room, or hobby workshop. These are particularly helpful for farmsteads, homesteaders, or anyone raising a flock as part of a broader self-sufficient lifestyle.
Larger shed chicken coops provide plenty of interior space for nesting boxes, roosts, feed storage, and even walk-in access for easier cleaning and maintenance. The additional room also promotes healthier flock dynamics, giving birds space to move freely and reducing stress or pecking behavior.
You can customize layouts, add dividers or storage zones, and even run electricity if needed. And with our 3D Configurator, it’s easy to visualize and build the exact setup your property and flock require.
Whether you're managing multiple breeds, raising meat birds, or simply need more functionality in one structure, a large-format coop offers the space and flexibility to do it all.
Our 7x16 and 10x16 coops are ideal for:
- Rural properties or hobby farms
- Chicken keepers managing a large or mixed flock
- Customers looking for multi-use outbuildings
4 Tips to Help You Choose the Best Backyard Chicken Coop Size
Still not sure what size is best for you?
Coop size is one of the most common questions new chicken owners have. The right choice depends on your flock size, how much space your chickens will have to roam, and even your long-term chicken-keeping goals.
Whether you're just getting started or need to expand coop space for a growing flock, here are a few key factors to help you choose the best backyard chicken coop with confidence.
1. Allow 3–4 Square Feet Per Chicken Inside the Coop
This is the general rule of thumb for happy, healthy hens, especially if they’ll be spending a lot of time inside during colder months. Chickens need enough space to roost, lay eggs, and move around without stress or aggression.
Don’t forget to account for nesting boxes and feeders, which may also take up interior space.
2. Plan for Future Flock Growth
You may start with just a few chickens, but chicken keeping tends to grow on people. If there's a chance you’ll want to expand your flock in the future, consider going a size up now.
It’s far easier (and more cost-effective) to prepare for additional birds upfront than to buy a whole new coop down the line.
3. Think Through Your Yard Layout
Measure the space where you plan to place the shed chicken coop, and don’t forget to account for walking paths around it. You’ll want easy access for cleaning, feeding, and collecting eggs, ideally without squeezing between fences, bushes, or garden beds.
Choose a spot with good drainage, partial shade, and protection from strong winds or runoff.
4. Factor in Weather and Ventilation
In hot climates, a larger coop will provide better air circulation, helping to keep your birds cool and reducing the risk of respiratory issues. In colder areas, a snug-but-well-ventilated coop can retain warmth while still allowing fresh air to flow.
Look for coops with built-in vents, windows, or other airflow options that can be adjusted based on the season.
Find the Coop That Fits Your Backyard
Whether you have a cozy patio or a wide-open pasture, we have a shed chicken coop that fits your space, your flock, and your lifestyle. Every Dakota coop is built with durability, comfort, and customization in mind, so you can feel confident you're giving your birds the best.
From small, easy-to-maintain models to large shed-style coops with room to grow, our range of sizes ensures your setup works today and tomorrow. Want to add extra roosts, storage space, or personalized features? You can do that too.
Ready to find the best backyard chicken coop for your flock? Explore our prebuilt coops or start designing your perfect setup using our 3D Configurator today.
