Are Doves Good Pets?

Doves are beautiful, gentle birds that can make wonderful pets. They are relatively easy to care for and can provide years of companionship. However, there are a few things you should know before deciding if a dove is the right pet for you.

Temperament

Doves are typically very docile and gentle birds. They are not aggressive and are unlikely to bite or scratch. They are also very social creatures and enjoy interacting with people. Doves are also very intelligent birds and can learn to do tricks and even speak a few words.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of a dove is about 10 years, although some doves can live for up to 20 years. This makes them a relatively long-lived pet.

Diet

Doves are primarily seed eaters. They can be fed a variety of seeds, including sunflower seeds, millet, and safflower seeds. Doves also need to eat fresh fruits and vegetables, such as apples, grapes, and carrots. You can also give your dove a small amount of hard-boiled egg or cooked chicken as a treat.

Housing

Doves need a spacious cage or aviary in which to live. The cage should be at least 3 feet long, 2 feet wide, and 2 feet tall. The aviary should be at least 10 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 6 feet tall. The cage or aviary should be made of wire mesh or another material that allows for good air circulation. The cage or aviary should also have a perch for the dove to sit on.

Exercise

Doves need to be able to fly in order to stay healthy. If you do not have a large enough cage or aviary, you will need to provide your dove with a way to get exercise outside of the cage. You can do this by taking your dove for walks on a leash or by setting up a flight cage in a safe area.

Conclusion

Doves can make wonderful pets for people who are looking for a gentle, social, and intelligent companion. They are relatively easy to care for and can provide years of companionship. However, it is important to do your research before getting a dove to make sure that you can provide it with the care and attention it needs.