Can You Have A Pet Pigeon – Care, Training And Health Tips

Published: 05 May 2025

Can you keep a pet pigeon at home? This is a common question for bird lovers and potential pigeon owners. Pigeons are more than just city birds; they’re intelligent, quiet, and affectionate pets that can recognize their owners and live comfortably in homes.

Basic Facts About Pigeons

Pigeons are gentle birds that have lived close to people for thousands of years. They come in many colours like grey, white, and brown. Some pigeons can fly long distances, while others are bred just to live as pets.

Pigeons can remember faces, find their way home from far away, and even show love to their owners. These birds usually live for 10 to 15 years when they are cared for properly. They don’t need a lot of space, and they are quiet animals, which makes them easy to keep at home.

Pigeon Intelligence and Behaviour

Pigeons are highly intelligent. They can recognize faces, follow routines, and even be trained to return home after flying. Many pigeons form strong bonds with their owners and stay loyal to one mate for life. When treated with kindness, they become affectionate and social.

Popular Pigeon Breeds for Pets

There are many types of pigeons, but some are better for keeping as pets. The Fantail pigeon has a big, fan-shaped tail and looks very fancy. The Homing pigeon is known for flying long distances and finding its way home. The Lahore pigeon is calm and has beautiful colours, making it great for families.

The Jacobin pigeon has feathers around its head that look like a soft collar. These breeds are friendly, easy to care for, and enjoy being around people. Choosing the right breed helps make your experience with a pet pigeon much better.

What Does A Pigeon Need Each Day?

Pigeons have simple needs, but it’s important to meet them every day. First, they need fresh food and clean water. A balanced diet of seeds, grains, and occasional fruits keeps them healthy. You should also give them some time to fly or exercise outside, if possible.

Pigeons love to stretch their wings and explore. Their cage or living area should be cleaned daily to prevent dirt and germs. Pigeons also need companionship, so spending time with them every day is important to keep them happy. Lastly, check on their health regularly and make sure they look healthy and active.

Tips for Taming and Training Your Pigeon

Taming a pigeon takes time and kindness. Start with quiet interaction. Spend time near your pigeon, offer treats by hand, and build trust. Slowly, you can teach them to perch on your hand or come when called. Positive reinforcement (like treats or seeds) helps in faster training.

Local Pigeon Clubs and Organizations

Joining a local pigeon club or organization can be very helpful for new pigeon owners. These groups offer advice, share tips, and help you learn more about pigeon care. Many clubs also organize events where pigeon lovers can meet, exchange ideas, and even show off their pigeons.

Some clubs offer training programs or workshops to help you understand your pigeon better. You can find local pigeon clubs through the internet or by asking at pet stores or animal shelters. Being part of such a group can make pigeon ownership easier and more enjoyable.

Common Health Issues In Pigeons

Even healthy pigeons can get sick sometimes. One common problem is mites, which are tiny bugs that live in feathers and cause itching.

Some common issues include:

Mites: cause itching and feather loss
Canker: yellow growth in mouth due to infection
Respiratory infections: often due to poor hygiene

Preventative care like clean housing, proper diet, and regular vet check-ups can help avoid these issues.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Keeping a Pet Pigeon

Learn the pros and cons of keeping a pet pigeon, from their low maintenance and friendly nature to the challenges of their care and health needs.

Pros
Low Maintenance: Pigeons are not very demanding and are easy to care for. They don’t require as much attention as some other pets, like dogs or cats. Friendly and Intelligent: Pigeons are smart birds that can recognize their owners and even learn simple tricks. They are friendly and enjoy socializing. Quiet Pets: Unlike many other pets, pigeons are generally quiet. They make soft cooing sounds, which makes them a good pet for people who live in apartments or close quarters. Long Lifespan: Pigeons can live up to 15 years or more when properly cared for, which means they can be a long-term companion. Easy to Feed: Pigeons eat seeds, grains, and vegetables, which are easy to provide. Their diet is simple and affordable compared to other pets.

Pros

Low Maintenance: Pigeons are not very demanding and are easy to care for. They don’t require as much attention as some other pets, like dogs or cats.
Friendly and Intelligent: Pigeons are smart birds that can recognize their owners and even learn simple tricks. They are friendly and enjoy socializing.
Quiet Pets: Unlike many other pets, pigeons are generally quiet. They make soft cooing sounds, which makes them a good pet for people who live in apartments or close quarters.
Long Lifespan: Pigeons can live up to 15 years or more when properly cared for, which means they can be a long-term companion.
Easy to Feed: Pigeons eat seeds, grains, and vegetables, which are easy to provide. Their diet is simple and affordable compared to other pets.

Cons
Health Problems: Pigeons are susceptible to some health issues, like mites, respiratory problems, and infections, which require regular attention and care. Messy: Pigeons can be messy, as they may leave droppings everywhere. Their cages need to be cleaned regularly to maintain hygiene. Limited Interaction: While pigeons are friendly, they may not be as interactive as other pets like dogs or cats. Some people might find it hard to bond with them. Space Requirements: Although pigeons don’t need a lot of space, they still need a safe, clean area to fly around. If kept in a small cage, they may become unhappy and unhealthy. Legal Restrictions: In some areas, there might be local laws or regulations that prevent people from keeping pigeons as pets, so it’s important to check before adopting one.

Cons

Health Problems: Pigeons are susceptible to some health issues, like mites, respiratory problems, and infections, which require regular attention and care.
Messy: Pigeons can be messy, as they may leave droppings everywhere. Their cages need to be cleaned regularly to maintain hygiene.
Limited Interaction: While pigeons are friendly, they may not be as interactive as other pets like dogs or cats. Some people might find it hard to bond with them.
Space Requirements: Although pigeons don’t need a lot of space, they still need a safe, clean area to fly around. If kept in a small cage, they may become unhappy and unhealthy.
Legal Restrictions: In some areas, there might be local laws or regulations that prevent people from keeping pigeons as pets, so it’s important to check before adopting one.

FAQs about Keeping a Pet Pigeon

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about keeping a pet pigeon, covering common concerns and helpful tips for potential pigeon owners.

Can pigeons live indoors as pets?

Yes, pigeons can live indoors. They need a clean cage, access to fresh water and food, and some time outside for flying or exercise. Ensure their living area is safe and free of any potential hazards.

How long do pigeons live as pets?

Pigeons can live between 10 to 15 years when properly cared for. With good diet, regular health check-ups, and a safe environment, they can enjoy a long, healthy life.

What do pigeons eat as pets?

Pigeons eat a variety of foods, including seeds, grains, and occasional fruits like apples or berries. They also need fresh water every day.

How can I train my pet pigeon?

Training a pigeon involves patience. Start by building trust through hand-feeding and spending time with the bird. Gradually introduce simple commands or tasks like coming when called or stepping onto your hand, rewarding them with treats.

Are pigeons noisy pets?

Pigeons are generally quiet compared to other pets. However, they do make a soft cooing sound, which can be louder during mating seasons.

Do pigeons need a lot of attention?

Pigeons need daily care and some time spent with them for bonding. While they don’t require constant attention, they do enjoy interacting with their owners.

Is it legal to keep a pet pigeon?

In most places, it is legal to keep pigeons as pets. However, you should check local regulations regarding bird ownership, especially in urban areas, to ensure it is allowed in your area.

Can pigeons get along with other pets?

Pigeons can usually live peacefully with other pets like cats or dogs, but they should be supervised at first. Make sure that other pets don’t pose a threat to the pigeon’s safety.

What are the common health issues in pigeons?

Common health issues in pigeons include respiratory infections, mites, and canker (a mouth infection). Regular check-ups and maintaining a clean living environment can help prevent many health problems.

Do pigeons need to fly every day?

Yes, pigeons enjoy flying and need daily exercise. If you can, allow them to fly outdoors in a safe, enclosed area or provide space for them to fly indoors.

Conclusion

Can you have a pet pigeon as a loyal and low-maintenance companion? The answer is yes and it might just be one of the most rewarding experiences for bird lovers. Pigeons are intelligent, quiet, and affectionate pets that thrive on routine care, gentle interaction, and a safe living environment. With a simple diet, minimal space needs, and a long lifespan, they are perfect for apartment dwellers and families alike.

Article by Pets Osrs

Can You Have A Pet Pigeon – Care, Training And Health Tips

Table of Contents

Basic Facts About Pigeons

Pigeon Intelligence and Behaviour

Popular Pigeon Breeds for Pets

What Does A Pigeon Need Each Day?

Tips for Taming and Training Your Pigeon

Local Pigeon Clubs and Organizations

Common Health Issues In Pigeons

Advantages and Disadvantages of Keeping a Pet Pigeon

FAQs about Keeping a Pet Pigeon

Conclusion