Bunny breeding question

[Maukin]

So, when you breed a doe for the first time, do you want her to have a small litter, so she can handle them all and not get overwhelmed (if that's possible), or do you want her to have a large litter?How many times should a new doe be put with the buck? Does litter size the first time have any effect on future litters?

 

[Starlight Rabbitry]

I never really thought about it. I want her to have a healthy litter. I hope for smaller litters asthis way the doe is not overrun by babies. It is easier on them.

As for breeding, as a rule, it is best to breed in the morning. Also, after they mate the first time, wait an hour and do it again. This is done to give the doe a better chance of becoming pregnant.

Sharon

 

[RAL Rabbitry]

I like a medium sized litter (4-5) in a first time doe's litter or any litter for that

matter. I feel that small litters up the odds for fetal giants. I always breed does

in groups of 3 does of different varieties (easier to tell the babies apart) so if

a doe has too many I can foster some to another doe.

I normally let the buck breed the doe 3 times ina row and thats it unless

the doe tends to have small litters and then I bring her back in an hour

for her to breed again.

Roger

 

[BlueGiants]

I do the same as Roger. I let the buck breed the doe 3 times. Depending on the buck (and his "track" record),I may return her again an hour later. Some does will urinate immediately after breeding. If that happens I definately return her for another try.

And I try to breed at least 3 does to deliver within a day of each other. Since you are just starting out and only have Arwyn, it's not an option. But it wouldn't hurt if you knew another breeder in the area and coordinate your breeding with another doe... just incase. (ANY breed will do. I've had Mini Rex raise a Flemish).

 

[Maukin]

What if you only have one doe???

 

[RAL Rabbitry]

Do you know any other breeders in your area? I have fostered babies to my

does from other breeders that only had one litter and the doe didn't take

care of her babies. Do you have a local message system such as a Yahoo

group. Around here we have the ARBA District 7 newsgroup and word gets

around fast. Check and see if you have such a thing in your area and if you

don't start one. All shows are posted on it as well as rabbits for sale and

other interesting things.

Roger