by Dakota Storage Buildings, on October 20, 2025
When most people think about raising chickens, the first thing that comes to mind is to buy chicken coops. A sturdy coop is essential. It keeps your flock safe at night and provides a place to roost and lay eggs. But many new chicken owners underestimate one equally important element: the chicken coop run.
However, your flock requires more than a basic coop to be happy and healthy. Chickens need space to roam, scratch, and forage. Without it, they can become stressed, unhealthy, or even destructive. If the thought of letting your chickens free-range across the yard causes stress or worry, a dedicated run is a great solution
We create durable, customizable coops that come with optional runs, so you can choose the best setup for your space, your climate, and your flock. Our free range coops and enclosed chicken coops ensure that there’s an option for each flock’s needs.
What Is a Chicken Coop Run?
A chicken coop run is an enclosed outdoor area attached to your coop that gives chickens safe access to fresh air and ground space. Think of it as their playground. It’s an extension of the coop that supports natural behaviors and the flock's health.
Here are a few key benefits of a chicken run:
- Exercise: Chickens stay active, which helps reduce obesity and promotes stronger egg production.
- Mental Stimulation: Pecking, scratching, and exploring keep them from becoming bored and help prevent aggressive behaviors.
- Pecking Space: More room to spread out reduces altercations between birds.
- Safety: A properly built chicken coop run keeps predators out while giving your flock freedom to roam.
For many chicken owners, a run is the perfect middle ground between full free-range and full confinement. It keeps chickens contained to a manageable area, protects your landscaping, and gives you peace of mind.
When a Chicken Run Becomes a Must-Have
Not every backyard is the same. Some chicken owners might be able to let their birds free-range daily, while others need more structure.
A quality chicken coop run becomes especially important in situations like these:
- Limited Yard Space or No Secure Fencing: If your property doesn’t allow for safe free-ranging, a run gives your birds outdoor access without the risk of wandering.
- Predator Concerns: Hawks, raccoons, foxes, and even neighborhood dogs are constant threats. A run acts as a protective barrier.
- Local Restrictions: Some towns require backyard poultry to remain contained, and neighbors may not appreciate chickens visiting their garden beds.
In truly rural areas with lots of secure acreage, a run might feel less necessary, especially if your chickens roam freely during the day. Still, even free-range flocks benefit from a chicken coop run as a backup for times when roaming isn’t possible.
You can buy chicken coops from Dakota with or without runs, making it easy to choose the right setup for your property and lifestyle.
What to Look for in a Quality Chicken Coop Run
If you think that your flock will benefit from a chicken run, the next step is choosing one that’s built to last. This is where it can be easy for first-time chicken owners to run into trouble. Some runs may look fine at first glance, but weak materials or poor design quickly show their flaws once predators, weather, and daily wear and tear come into play.
Investing in a quality chicken coop run upfront saves you time, money, and frustration down the road.
Key features to look for when you buy chicken coops:
- Durable Siding and Roofing: Protection from rain, snow, and harsh sun keeps your flock comfortable year-round.
- Wire Mesh Protection: Sturdy, chew-resistant mesh keeps predators from digging or clawing their way in.
- Proper Ventilation: Airflow reduces moisture buildup, which can lead to respiratory issues.
- Adequate Space: Aim for at least 8-10 square feet of run space per bird, though more is always better.
When a chicken coop run has these features, it gives your chickens a safe outdoor space and creates a healthier environment that supports natural behaviors and reduces your daily workload.
Our runs are built with LP® SmartSide® siding and Long Creek Steel’s Tuff Rib Roofing to stand up to the elements while keeping your flock secure. And because no two backyards are the same, you can choose from pre-designed coop/run combinations or customize the chicken coop size and placement to fit your exact setup.
The result is a run that feels like a natural extension of your coop and your property, giving your flock the security they need and you the peace of mind you deserve.
Chicken Run Upgrades to Keep Your Run Comfortable and Secure
A standard chicken run will give your flock outdoor access, but with a few thoughtful upgrades, you can transform it into a space that’s safer, easier to maintain, and more enjoyable for your chickens.
These extra features make life better for your chickens and save you time and hassle as an owner:
- Shade and Shelter: Keep birds protected from direct sun or heavy rain.
- Roosting and Climbing Features: Chickens love to perch. Adding branches or elevated roosts gives them variety.
- Easy Access: Large doors and smart design make daily care, like cleaning and feeding, simple.
- Winter Considerations: In colder climates, adding snow covers or wind protection helps maintain comfort.
These small enhancements can go a long way toward supporting your flock’s natural behaviors, keeping them active and healthy, and making your job as a chicken keeper more manageable.
It’s easy to overlook or struggle to incorporate these upgrades, leading to extra work and less protection over time. Our enclosed run options are designed with year-round usability in mind, from weather resistance to ease of cleaning. That means less effort on your part and a flock that’s healthier, happier, and more secure in every season.
Make Chicken Keeping Easier With the Right Run
A well-designed quality chicken coop run ensures your flock has the space to move, forage, and stay safe, while giving you peace of mind and fewer maintenance headaches. It could be the difference between chickens that simply survive and a flock that is truly happy and healthy.
The right run also helps protect your investment. By reducing predator risks, supporting healthy behaviors, and making daily care easier, you’ll spend less time worrying about problems and more time enjoying the rewards of raising chickens.
At Dakota, we make it easy to buy chicken coops that are the right fit. With customizable coops and secure run options, you can choose a setup that works for your flock, your space, and your goals. Built with durable materials and thoughtful design, our coops and runs are made to last through every season.
Download our free guide, Evaluating Best-fit Quality Chicken Coops, to learn how you can give your chickens the comfort, safety, and freedom they deserve, while making your own chicken-keeping experience more enjoyable and stress-free.
