Dove Care Tips

Dove care is a rewarding journey that combines proper nutrition, a safe environment, and regular attention to your bird’s needs. As gentle creatures, doves thrive when provided with balanced diets, clean housing, and social interaction that supports their well-being. This introduction explores evidence-based tips for setting up an ideal habitat, choosing high-quality feed, and ensuring sufficient mental stimulation. By applying these recommendations, you can help your dove stay healthy, reduce stress, and strengthen the bond you share. Whether you are a new dove owner or looking to refine your approach, these insights will guide you toward a deeper understanding of your pet’s requirements. Through careful planning and consistent care, you can create a nurturing space where your dove can flourish for years to come. With a blend of expert advice and practical wisdom, this resource will empower you to become a dedicated dove caretaker. Dove care fosters bonds and companionship.

Are you interested in adopting doves? These gentle, pretty birds are almost like the cats of the bird world. They spend much of their time relaxing and sunbathing, but can also be quite cuddly and affectionate. A Fort Myers, FL veterinarian discusses dove care basics below.

Cage

Doves are very sociable, and really should be kept in pairs. For two, you’d need a habitat that is 32’ x 32’ x 21’. However, get the biggest cage you can. The cage bars should be less than 3/8” apart: otherwise, your pets may get stuck or try to escape. Stainless steel is a good choice as far as materials go. If you get a coated cage, make sure the coating isn’t toxic.

Location is also important. Doves are happiest in quiet, comfy spots, where they can observe their owners without feeling exposed. Doves don’t climb, so it’s crucial for them to have room to fly around. If you can’t provide a flight habitat, birdproof a room to let them out in.

Accessories

Doves should have several perches, in various strengths, sizes, and materials. Change these out frequently to keep things fun and fresh.

Enrichment

Your feathered pals will also need some entertainment. Foraging games are popular with doves. You can make many fun toys out of paper, soft wood, or cardboard. Ask your vet for more information.

Water

Your doves will need fresh water at all times as part of effective dove care. They also enjoy birdbaths. Provide water bowls that are large enough for Polly to bathe in.

Area

Doves require UV light, so you’ll need to add lighting above your pets’ cage. (Note: putting the cage near a window isn’t sufficient, as glass filters the light out.) This is especially important for females. Doves lay a lot of eggs, and need Vitamin D and calcium for the shells.

Diet

You can give your doves pellets, supplemented with fresh, safe veggies. You’ll need to add grit to your birds’ food to help them digest seeds, which they swallow whole. Like any other pet, doves also enjoy snacks and treats. Ask your vet for specific advice, including safe and unsafe foods.

Love

Unlike parrots, who sometimes scream like car alarms, doves make soothing coo sounds. Pay attention to your winged pals, and spend lots of time with them!

Dove Care in 2025: How to Choose and Understand Pet Doves

What species of doves make good pets and what are their characteristics?

Ring-neck Doves, Diamond Doves, and Collared Doves commonly make rewarding household pets. Their calm demeanor, moderate size, and quieter vocalizations suit many living situations. They thrive in pairs, forming strong social bonds and enjoying gentle handling. When provided a spacious flight cage or a safe, birdproof area to stretch their wings, they remain active and content. They also require consistent attention to stay happy. Their diet generally includes quality seed or pellet mixes, supplemented by fresh produce and grit. These docile birds are known for their gentle cooing, sunbathing sessions, and curious, friendly interactions with attentive caretakers.

What are the typical behaviors of pet doves?

Pet doves typically exhibit calm and gentle behaviors, spending considerable time relaxing or sunbathing, similar to cats. They thrive on social interaction, both with their cage mates and human caregivers, often showing affection through gentle cuddling. Rather than climbing, doves primarily enjoy flying, requiring adequate space to move around freely. They engage naturally in foraging behaviors, appreciating toys and games involving paper, soft wood, or cardboard. Unlike parrots’ loud calls, doves communicate softly, producing soothing cooing sounds. Additionally, doves appreciate regular bathing, often enjoying birdbaths or water bowls provided within their habitats.

How do you set up a safe outdoor aviary for doves?

Setting up a safe outdoor aviary for doves involves providing ample flight space with secure, predator-resistant materials and bar spacing under 3/8 inch. Ensure a comfortable, quiet location shielded from extreme weather, and include multiple perches of different sizes and textures. Offer a sheltered area where they can bask in unfiltered sunlight while having easy access to shade. Provide a birdbath or shallow dish of fresh water for drinking and bathing. Incorporate foraging toys and safe natural materials for enrichment. Remember to maintain proper ventilation and keep the enclosure clean.

What household hazards should dove owners be aware of?

Dove owners should be cautious with nonstick cookware containing Teflon. Overheated Teflon can release fumes that harm or kill birds. Toxic cleaning agents, scented candles, and household sprays also create risks, as do certain paint fumes. Drafty windows or doors allow unexpected escapes and potential predator encounters. Electrical cords, small objects, and harmful houseplants like philodendron can cause accidents or poisoning. Opt for secure cage placement away from direct drafts, and choose non-toxic finishes on bars and perches. Limiting these hazards supports a safer, healthier environment for doves.

What should owners know about dove breeding behavior?

Doves typically breed year-round, producing multiple clutches. They do best with a devoted partner, so housing them in compatible pairs helps maintain harmony. Each female requires a nutritious diet with added grit, calcium, and vitamin D to support strong eggshells and overall health. Adequate UV lighting fosters proper nutrient absorption, enhancing egg production. Provide a cozy nesting space free from disturbances to promote successful breeding. Regularly observe any shifts in behavior or health and make necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable environment, resulting in a more rewarding experience for both birds and caretakers.

Do you have questions about dove care? Contact us, your Fort Myers, FL pet clinic, today!