My son has fallen in love with the ducks at our neighbor’s house. Now he’s asking for a duck of his own, and I’m wondering if this is even feasible or just a bad idea. Any duck owners here with advice?
I had ducks as a kid—they’re social, fun, and full of personality! But be ready for a lot of work, and mess. They poop everywhere, and they need a good setup with water and shelter.
Paxton said:
I had ducks as a kid—they’re social, fun, and full of personality! But be ready for a lot of work, and mess. They poop everywhere, and they need a good setup with water and shelter.
Exactly. I had ducks as a kid, too. Fun to have, but cleaning up after them was no joke. Lot of work for sure.
Paxton said:
I had ducks as a kid—they’re social, fun, and full of personality! But be ready for a lot of work, and mess. They poop everywhere, and they need a good setup with water and shelter.
You’ll need at least two ducks! They’re social animals and need duck friends to thrive.
Paxton said:
I had ducks as a kid—they’re social, fun, and full of personality! But be ready for a lot of work, and mess. They poop everywhere, and they need a good setup with water and shelter.
Had ducks and they’re chaotic little demons. Constantly pooping or biting you. Hard pass from me!
Ducks are cute but messy. They’ll poop on everything, and drakes (male ducks) can be very aggressive with females. If you go for it, stick to females only.
Maybe see if your neighbor will let your son ‘adopt’ one of their ducks for visits? You can contribute to feeding or care without committing to full duck ownership.
Ducks are lovely, but they are work. Don’t get just one—ducks need friends. For now, enjoy your neighbor’s ducks or park ducks until you’re ready for the full setup (water, coop, space, etc.).
Yan said:
Ducks are lovely, but they are work. Don’t get just one—ducks need friends. For now, enjoy your neighbor’s ducks or park ducks until you’re ready for the full setup (water, coop, space, etc.).
Seconded! Ducks are happiest in groups.
Ducks need companions. Please don’t just get one; it’ll be lonely and stressed.
Ducks are cool but messy. If you don’t have a pond, you’ll need a small pool for them to swim. Just know they will foul the water fast and poop everywhere. Clean-up is constant!
Ducks are adorable, but it’s important to get at least 3 or more for their well-being. If you want eggs, female ducks are amazing! Just be prepared for the mess.
Ducks are more work than most people think—lots of poop, messy water, and males can be aggressive. If you’re serious, research thoroughly and show your son what goes into caring for them. Raising animals can teach valuable lessons.
Consider chickens instead! They’re less messy, easier to care for, and equally fun and affectionate. Plus, chicken diapers exist if you want to keep one indoors. 
If you want a lowkey security system, geese or ducks are surprisingly great at being ‘guard animals.’ 
Just know: ducks poop A LOT. Like… so much.
Get him one!