Australian Cattle Dog

Question
My 8 month old ACD pup has killed one of my chickens.  Well, he was playing and the chicken wasn't up to it!  What is the best way to discourage him from "playing" this deadly game with them.  He also likes to spar with my 2 goats, not ideal! Frankly one breed is as bad as the other, both extreamely pig headed.

Over all the pup is good natured and willing to please, and trains quickly.  But the barn has me stumped.

Answer
Kathryn,
You first need to establish control of your dog through basic obedience training.  Once you have control over your dog you will need to do environmental socialization.  Basically this involves getting the dog used to being around the animals and teaching the acceptable interactive behavior.  You current situation is "instinct" for your dog.  You need to teach him this is unacceptable behavior.  To do this you need control.  I would suggest you purchase my short simple ONE, TWO, GOOD DOG! Booklet.  When you finish this short booklet based on a "5 minute learning theory" you and your dog will be on the same page.
You can use the protocol to teach the dog how to accept and deal with the other animals as members of its pack.  Here is an example.  Have the dog on a lead such as the whisper string I use in my training.  Allow the dog to approach the chickens.  If your dog is not exhibiting aggressive behavior reward with praise as taught in the booklet.  If it shows aggression stop the aggression with a verbal attentive command (ONE) such as "No" or "AAAAAAAH", or a lead tug, immediately when the dog stops (TWO) reward with praise (GOOD DOG!) as taught.  Create this situation to get 15 to 20 consistent reps in 5 minutes or less.  After this initial teaching conditioning will need to be accomplished through integration of this into your daily routine of interaction with your animals.

I personally have owned and currently own ACD's.  I also own horses.  The dogs naturally want to herd the horses although by using the ONE, TWO, GOOD DOG! protocol in this manner my dog always leave the horses alone unless I direct the dog to move them.
If you need anything clarified feel free to call and discuss this with me. Dr. Hogan 509-991-0385
You will find my booklet available at:  
http://invincibleservices.com/html/one__two_good_dog_.html