For the triracial group in Florida, see Dominickers. United States during the colonial period. This breed was first documented chicken pillows the Northeast United States around Boston, Massachusetts and other major hubs of development.
After the Plymouth Rock breed was developed from the Dominiques in the 1870s, the Dominiques’ popularity declined, until by 1950 they were so rare as to be considered nearly extinct. The Dominique is a stylish, medium-sized breed known for their rose comb and irregular barring. Their plumage is held fairly tight to the body which helps them resist frostbite, and as a result, they tend to do well in all climates. Their calm, steady demeanor makes them successful as show birds or family pets. However, Dominique roosters can sometimes be even more aggressive than the Rhode Island Red and have been known to kill small cats, snakes, and even mink. The hens tend to be good mothers, brooding and raising chicks with a high rate of success. The Dominique is hardy and a good forager, traits which are attributed to the harsh conditions in which the breed first developed.
America’s First Chicken, Brentwood, Tennessee: Tractor Supply Co. Storey’s Illustrated Guide to Poultry Breeds. 210 MAS MoCA Way, North Adams MA 01247: Storey Publishing. Suite 200, 380 Jackson St, St Paul MN 55101: Voyageur Press. 85 Second Street San Francisco CA 94105: Chronicle Books LLC.