A chicken coop isn’t just a shelter—it’s a home base. It’s where your chickens sleep, lay eggs, and take cover from bad weather and hungry predators. Get the proper setup, and your flock will be safe, comfortable, and stress-free. Get it wrong, and you’ll spend a lot of time dealing with overcrowding, messy cleanups, and maybe even lost chickens.
So, what makes an excellent coop for eight chickens? It’s all about space, durability, ventilation, security, and ease of maintenance. You need enough room to prevent squabbles, materials that hold up to rain and snow, and a design that makes cleaning (and egg collecting) a breeze.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the five best chicken coops for a flock of eight. Whether you’re looking for something mobile, extra secure, or just easy to clean, there’s a perfect coop out there. Let’s break it down.
How to Choose the Best Chicken Coop for 8 Chickens
If you’re raising chickens, getting the proper coop is not optional—it’s the difference between a happy, healthy flock and a daily headache. The best coop gives your chickens the space they need, keeps them safe, and makes your life easier. Here’s what to look for.
Coop Size & Space Requirements
Chickens aren’t that picky, but they do need space. Too little, and they’ll start pecking at each other. Too much, and you’re wasting space (and possibly money). The general rule: each chicken needs 4 square feet inside the coop and 10 square feet in the run.
For 8 chickens, that means:
- At least 32 square feet inside the coop
- At least 80 square feet in the run
That’s just the bare minimum. If you have the space, choosing a larger option is always preferable. More room means happier, healthier birds.
Roosting space matters, too. Chickens sleep on perches, and each one needs 8-12 inches of space on a roosting bar. They also need a place to lay eggs. With 8 chickens, you’ll want at least two nesting boxes, preferably three or four.
Before making a purchase, take a tape measure and check the dimensions of your backyard.Think about where the coop will go—somewhere with shade, good drainage, and protection from wind and rain.
Material & Durability
What your coop is made of matters. It affects how long it lasts, how well it protects your chickens, and how much maintenance you’ll need to do. The three main options:
- Wood: The classic choice. Looks nice and insulates well but needs regular upkeep (weatherproofing, repainting, etc.).
- Metal: Tough and predator-proof, but can get too hot in summer and too cold in winter.
- Plastic: Easy to clean, lightweight, and resistant to rot, but not always as sturdy.
Most backyard coops are wood, and for good reason—it’s sturdy and blends into the yard. Just make sure it’s treated for outdoor use so it doesn’t fall apart after a year in the rain. If you live somewhere with extreme weather, consider a metal or plastic coop with added insulation.
Ventilation & Weather Protection
Chickens don’t do well in a stuffy, damp coop. Without proper airflow, moisture builds up, and that leads to respiratory issues and mold. Not good.
Look for:
- Vents or windows to keep fresh air moving.
- A waterproof roof to keep rain out.
- Insulation if you live in a cold climate (straw, foam, or windbreaks help).
In hot weather, shade and airflow are critical. A coop with large mesh openings and roof overhangs will help keep your birds cool.
Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance
A coop that’s hard to clean is a coop you’ll start dreading cleaning. And a dirty coop? That’s a recipe for sick chickens, bad smells, and way more flies than you ever wanted.
Look for:
- Removable trays to collect droppings.
- Large access doors so you’re not squeezing into tiny spaces.
- PVC-coated floors to prevent water damage and bacteria buildup.
If egg collection is a priority, get a coop with external nesting box access. That way, you don’t have to open the whole coop to grab breakfast.
A good rule of thumb? Deep clean your coop every few weeks, replace bedding regularly and check for signs of wear. A little maintenance goes a long way.
Security Against Predators
If you’ve never lost a chicken to a predator, count yourself lucky. Foxes, raccoons, hawks, and even stray dogs will absolutely go after your flock if they get the chance.
A good coop should have the following:
- Reinforced wire mesh (chicken wire is not strong enough—hardware cloth is better).
- Secure locks on all doors and nesting boxes.
- A raised design to keep out burrowing pests.
Want extra security? Consider:
- Motion-activated lights to scare off nighttime predators.
- An automatic coop door that closes at dusk.
- Burying hardware cloth around the perimeter to stop digging predators.
Your coop isn’t just a shelter—it’s a home base for your chickens. The better it is, the happier (and safer) your flock will be.
Top 5 Chicken Coops for 8 Chickens
If you’re looking for the perfect chicken coop for 8 chickens, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve put together a list of the top 5 coops, each with its unique features. Whether you need something mobile, easy to clean, or extra spacious, there’s a coop here for you. Let’s take a closer look!
1. Large Chicken Coop with Wheels
This coop is perfect for chicken owners who want flexibility. Designed for 6-8 chickens, it’s mobile, weatherproof, and easy to clean. With wheels and a waterproof PVC cover, it’s built to move and built to last.
Key Features:
- Wheels for easy movement around the yard.
- Waterproof PVC cover to keep your chickens dry.
- Two nesting boxes for comfortable egg-laying.
- Removable tray for hassle-free cleaning.
- Wooden construction with natural insulation.
Pros and Cons
- Easy to move for fresh grazing areas.
- The weatherproof design keeps chickens safe.
- Low maintenance with the removable tray.
- Spacious enough for 6-8 chickens.
- Natural insulation keeps chickens comfortable year-round.
- Wheels might not work well on rough or uneven terrain.
- Smaller run areas could be limiting for highly active chickens.
- Requires assembly.
Backyard owners who want mobility and weather protection. Perfect if you need to rotate grazing areas or prefer a movable, compact solution.
2. Deluxe Large Wood Chicken Coop
For those who love a classic wooden design, this deluxe coop is a solid choice. It offers 3 nesting boxes, ample space for 4-8 chickens, and easy access for cleaning and egg collection. The wooden construction is durable and provides excellent insulation for your chickens in both summer and winter.
Key Features:
- 3 nesting boxes for egg-laying.
- Spacious design for up to 8 chickens.
- Wooden construction with weather-resistant coating.
- Multiple access points for easy cleaning and egg collection.
Pros and Cons
- Sturdy, durable wood construction.
- Ample nesting boxes for 4-8 chickens.
- Easy access for cleaning and egg collection.
- Weather-resistant coating for long-lasting use.
- Takes time to assemble.
- Heavier than some plastic or metal options.
- It might require additional waterproofing over time.
Backyard chicken keepers who prefer a traditional and sturdy wooden design. Great for those who want ample nesting space and don’t mind manual cleaning.
3. Aivituvin Walk-In Chicken Coop
If you need a spacious and easy-to-clean coop, this walk-in design is ideal. It provides plenty of room for 8 chickens (or other small animals like ducks) and comes with a PVC layer for easy maintenance. The walk-in feature makes it convenient for cleaning and interacting with your chickens.
Key Features:
- Walk-in design for easy access.
- PVC layer for quick cleaning.
- Durable frame with ample space for 8 chickens.
- Outdoor poultry duck enclosure.
Pros and Cons
- Easy to clean with a removable PVC layer.
- Spacious and easy to access.
- Great for interacting with your chickens or other small animals.
- Durable construction ensures long-term use.
- It may require additional predator-proofing.
- Requires more space in the yard.
- A larger footprint may not suit smaller properties.
Owners who want a large, walk-in coop with easy access and cleaning. Great for those who want more space to interact with their chickens or have multiple types of poultry or small animals.
4. Chicken Coop with Two Houses and Run
This dual-house design is perfect for those who want to keep their chickens separated. Whether you’re introducing new birds or need more flexibility, this coop offers two houses with a large run, giving your chickens plenty of space to roam and rest comfortably.
Key Features
- Two separate houses for added flexibility.
- Large run area for plenty of space.
- Wooden construction for durability.
- Poultry cage design for added safety.
Pros and Cons
- Separate houses allow for flexible setups (e.g., quarantine or introducing new chickens).
- The long run gives chickens more space to roam.
- Secure design helps protect against predators.
- Sturdy wooden build.
- Takes up more space in the yard.
- More expensive than single-house options.
- It may require extra time to assemble.
Owners with larger backyards who want to keep multiple flocks or need to separate chickens for any reason. Perfect for those looking for added flexibility in managing their flock.
5. New Large Wood Chicken Coop with 4 Nesting Boxes
This large wooden coop offers 4 nesting boxes and enough room for 4-8 chickens. It’s perfect for those who need extra space for egg-laying and want a durable, weather-resistant coop that keeps chickens comfortable in all seasons.
Key Features:
- 4 nesting boxes for plenty of egg-laying space.
- Wooden construction with weather-resistant coating.
- Spacious design for 4-8 chickens.
- Easy-to-clean design with access points.
Pros and Cons
- More nesting space than many coops.
- Sturdy and durable wooden design.
- Weather-resistant coating adds longevity.
- Plenty of space for 4-8 chickens.
- It might need additional waterproofing or maintenance over time.
- Takes longer to assemble than plastic options.
- Heavier construction.
Backyard owners who need more nesting space and want a long-lasting wooden coop. Great for those who have up to 8 chickens and want a sturdy, traditional design for their flock.
Choosing the best chicken coop for 8 chickens depends on your needs. If you want something portable, go for the Large Chicken Coop with Wheels. If you’re all about durability and classic design, the Deluxe Large Wood Chicken Coop is a winner. For easy cleaning, the Aivituvin Walk-In Chicken Coop can’t be beaten. Need extra space? The Chicken Coop with Two Houses and Run is perfect. And if you want maximum nesting boxes, the New Large Wood Chicken Coop has you covered.
No matter which one you choose, your chickens will have a safe, comfortable home where they can thrive. Happy coop shopping!
Comparison Chart: Top 5 Chicken Coops for 8 Chickens
Here’s a clean and easy-to-read comparison chart for the top 5 chicken coops, designed for quick reference.
| Feature | Large Coop with Wheels | Deluxe Large Wood Coop | Aivituvin Walk-In Coop | Double House Coop | New Large Wood Coop |
| Capacity | 6-8 chickens | 4-8 chickens | 8 chickens | 4-8 chickens | 4-8 chickens |
| Mobility | ✅ Yes (wheels) | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Nesting Boxes | 2 | 3 | 2 | 2 per house | 4 |
| Material | Wood with PVC cover | Solid wood | Wood with PVC layer | Wood | Solid wood |
| Weather Protection | ✅ Waterproof cover | ✅ Weather-resistant | ✅ PVC layer for easy cleaning | ✅ Covered run | ✅ Weather-treated wood |
| Ease of Cleaning | ✅ Removable tray | ✅ Slide-out tray | ✅ PVC-coated interior | ✅ Easy access doors | ✅ Slide-out tray |
| Predator Protection | ✅ Reinforced wire mesh | ✅ Lockable doors | ✅ Sturdy frame | ✅ Elevated design | ✅ Secure latches |
| Best For… | Easy mobility | Spacious nesting | Walk-in access | Multi-flock setup | Extra nesting space |
Would you like any additional details or modifications?
FAQs About Chicken Coops for 8 Chickens
Do you have questions about chicken coops for 8 chickens? You’re not alone! Here are some of the most common questions—and answers—to help you make the best choice for your flock.
1. How big should a coop be for 8 chickens?
For 8 chickens, your coop should offer a minimum of 32 square feet of space inside (roughly 4 square feet per chicken) and at least 80 square feet in the run (around 10 square feet per chicken). This ensures your chickens have enough room to roam, nest, and roost comfortably without overcrowding, which can lead to stress or health problems. It’s always a good idea to give them a bit more space if possible. Chickens are happiest when they have room to stretch their wings and scratch around!
2. What is the best bedding for a chicken coop?
The best bedding for your chicken coop depends on your priorities, but pine shavings and straw are popular choices. Pine shavings are absorbent and help control odor, while straw is soft and great for nesting. Sand is also an option, as it’s easy to clean and keeps things dry, but it requires more maintenance. The key is to choose bedding that’s comfortable, absorbent, and easy to replace. Do not use cedar shavings because they can hurt chickens.
3. How often should you clean a chicken coop?
Ideally, you should clean your chicken coop once a week, but it depends on how many chickens you have and how much they use the coop. If you’re using deep litter (where the bedding builds up and decomposes), you might only need to do a full clean every couple of months. However, it’s a good idea to spot-clean the coop a few times a week—scoop out waste, replace soiled bedding, and ensure fresh water is always available. Regular cleaning keeps your chickens healthy and prevents pests like mites and flies.
4. Do chicken coops need to be insulated?
Chicken coops don’t always need to be insulated, but it’s a good idea if you live in an area with extreme weather. Insulating the coop helps keep it warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. You can use materials like foam boards, reflective insulation, or even straw bales for natural insulation. Proper ventilation is still important, even if you insulate the coop, to prevent moisture buildup. Chickens can handle cold temperatures, but drafts and dampness can make them sick.
5. How can I keep my chickens safe from predators?
Predator-proofing your chicken coop is essential. Look for coops with reinforced wire mesh, secure locks, and raised foundations to prevent predators from digging underneath. Make sure there are no gaps that a predator could slip through. During the night, secure the coop doors and check that all latches are firmly closed. A sound fencing system around the run can also add extra protection. Consider adding motion-activated lights or alarms to scare off nighttime intruders. Always lock your chickens inside the coop at night—it’s like tucking them in with a security guard on duty.
Conclusion
A good chicken coop isn’t just a box with a roof—it’s a home. It’s where your chickens sleep, lay eggs, and stay safe from the things that go bump in the night. Get the right one, and your flock will thrive. Get the wrong one, and you’ll be dealing with cramped quarters, cleaning headaches, and possibly some very grumpy hens.
So what’s the best choice? It depends. If you need to move your coop around, a wheeled model makes life easier. If low-maintenance cleaning is your thing, a walk-in coop with a PVC layer keeps the mess under control. Need extra nesting space? Go for the model with four nesting boxes. And if you want something solid and dependable, a classic wooden coop is always a safe bet.
If you need a chicken coop for four chickens, read this post: Choosing the Best Chicken Coop for Four Chickens: What You Need to Know. We have selected the best six coops for four chickens or If you need a chicken coop for six chickens, read this post: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Chicken Coop for 6 Chickens: Space, Safety, and Happy Hens. We have selected the best five coops for four chickens.
Whatever you choose, think about space, security, and ease of use. Your chickens (and future self) will thank you. Got a coop you love? Share your experience in the comments! Have questions? Drop them below—I’m here to help.