May 15, 2022 by Pauline G. Carter
Appenzeller Spitzhauben Chicken breed is from Appenzelle, Switzerland and is the national bird of this country. This chicken breed has two varieties – the Spitzhauben which means “pointed bonnet” and the Barthuhner which means “bearded hen”.
Both are show breeds. Both varieties can decently lay small white eggs 5 times a week, and both have color variations of black, golden and silver spangled plumage.
The Spitzhauben chicken breed has a V-comb while the Barthuhner has a rose comb. Both male and female Spitzhauben chickens have feather crests while Barthuhner has no crest. Appenzeller Spitzhauben Chicken is light with its hens averaging 1.6 kgs and roosters averaging 2 kgs.
Appenzeller Spitzhauben Chicken | Breed Profile

Country of origin: | Switzerland |
Primary use: | Eggs |
Weight: | Small (4-5 lbs) |
Temperament: | Forager |
Recognized Varieties: | Barthuhner, Black Spangled, Blue Spangled, Gold, Gold Spangled, Silver Spangled |
Egg production (annual): | 120 |
Egg color: | White |
Egg size: | Medium |
Comb type: | V-Shape Comb |
Characteristics Of The Appenzeller Spitzhauben Chicken
Appenzeller Spitzhauben Chickens have white skins, have blue or slate legs. They are a beautiful breed because of their well-spread tail, full hackle, and hard and tight plumage. Their crest is tipped forward over their faces, and their well-rounded body is proportioned.
They possess dark brown eyes and have large nostrils. This chicken breed has neither beards nor muffs. They have long and fine wattles and have white and oval-shaped ear lobes.

This chicken breed has a powerful beak, and its nostrils are large and deep. The fleshy knob at the front of their beak is noticeable, too. Appenzeller Spitzhauben is lightweight. The roosters averagely weigh about 2 kgs while the hens weigh about 1.6 kgs.
With their beautiful looks, they can be for show and ornamental purposes. As for their rarity, they are available from most breeders.
Behavior/ Temperament/ Use:
The Appenzeller Spitzhauben breed is suited for mountain life for they are very much acquainted with climbing. This chicken breed may be quiet and friendly in nature, but they do not like being confined. They are always active and love to roost in trees.
They also tend to look after themselves when it comes to eating. So they are an economical breed. They are not nervous or flighty. Their small wattles and combs make keep them from frost bites.

Generally, this chicken breed’s temperament is friendly, calm, and docile. They do not like to be confined at all. This can cause them to be broody sometimes. When it comes to climate tolerance, they can live up to any type of weather. Their breed size is large while their eggs and productivity are medium.
Their varieties which are mostly found in the UK and the USA range from black, golden spangled and silver strangled.
What we Liked/Pros:
- Economical. They tend to feed for themselves, especially when they are in the mountains.
- Roosting in trees. We can save space for other poultry breeds.
- No feathered legs. We can save time in cleaning them.
- Readily available breed and has a well-proportioned round body.
- Friendly, calm, active, and seldom broods.
What we Don’t Like/Cons:
- Since these chickens like to roost in trees, they can be lost or caught by hunters.
Ultimate Guide To Take Care For Appenzeller Spitzhauben Chicken
Taking care of chickens is not as difficult as it may seem. With a little bit of preparation and knowledge, you can easily take care of your flock of chickens. In this article, we will be discussing everything you need to know about taking care of Appenzeller Spitzhauben chicken.
Appenzeller Spitzhauben chicken is a breed of chicken native to the mountainous regions of Switzerland. These chickens are known for their unique appearance, including a crest of feathers on their head that resembles a crown.

This breed of chicken is known for being hardy and adaptable to different climates. They are also known for being good layers of eggs. So, if you are thinking about getting chickens, this breed may be a good option.
When it comes to taking care of chickens, there are a few things that you need to do to ensure their health and well-being. One of the most important things is to provide them with a clean and safe environment.
Chickens need plenty of space to move around and exercise. They also need access to fresh water and food at all times. Keeping their coop clean and free from any potential hazards is important.
Another important thing to consider when taking care of chickens is their health. You will need to monitor them for any signs of illness or injury. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, you should take them to see a vet as soon as possible.
Chickens are also susceptible to predators. Therefore, you must make sure that their coop is well-protected from any potential threats.
Taking care of chickens can be a rewarding experience. However, with a little effort, you can easily create a safe and healthy environment for your flock. By following these tips, you can be sure that your chickens will thrive and lay plenty of eggs for you to enjoy.
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FAQ: Appenzeller Spitzhauben Chicken
Are Appenzeller Spitzhauben rare?
No, Appenzeller Spitzhauben are not rare. They are a heritage breed chicken that is fairly new to the United States, but they are not rare. You can find them for sale at many hatcheries and online retailers.
Are Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens friendly?
Yes, Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens are friendly. They are not as skittish as some other chicken breeds and they enjoy being around people.
What do Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens look like?
Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens are a small to medium-sized breed. They have a distinctive black and white plumage with a crest of feathers on their head. They are known for their calm demeanor and good egg production.
How much do Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens weigh?
Adult Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens typically weigh between 4 and 6 pounds.
What do Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens eat?
Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens eat a variety of food, but they prefer seeds, bugs, and greens.
What is the lifespan of Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens?
Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens typically live for 6-8 years.
Do Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens lay eggs?
Yes, Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens lay eggs. They are good egg layers and can produce up to 120 eggs per year.
What color eggs do Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens lay?
Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens typically lay brown eggs. However, there is some variation and some hens may lay white or tinted eggs.
Are Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens good for meat?
No, Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens are not typically used for meat. They are a heritage breed chicken that is considered a good egg layer.
Are Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens good pets?
Yes, Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens make good pets. They are friendly and docile, and they enjoy being around people.
Final Verdict
The Appenzeller Spitzhauben chicken is a breed of chicken originating in the canton of Appenzell in Switzerland. The breed is characterized by its V-shaped comb and wattles, both white. The Appenzeller Spitzhauben is a dual-purpose breed, which is bred for egg production and meat.
About Author (Pauline G. Carter)

Pauline G. Carter is a well-known pet blogger who has written about the world of pets for several years. She is passionate about pets, from cats and dogs to birds, reptiles, and poultry. Her blog, which is updated regularly, is filled with articles and guides on pet care, nutrition, and training. She also shares her experiences and observations on pet ownership, making her blog relatable and informative for pet lovers. She is a true animal advocate and is dedicated to promoting responsible pet ownership. Let’s Go …