Which breed of rabbit to choose?

[Catmad]

Having made the decision to purchase our first rabbit(s), we would prefer a small to medium size variety. We like the look of mini and dwarf lops and dwarf Netherlands. I understand some small varities can be larger than you think, so can anyone please tell me how long these could be when fully grown. Are they all cuddly, or are some bony? Also, have you any comments on personalty. We would like something our young daughter can have contact with. Are there any other small/medium rabbits which we might consider? Anythingyou can comment on,greatly appreciated.

 

[rabbit_whisperer]

I have a list

holland lop

hotot

dwarf

dutch/dwarf

american.



Good luck on choosing a rabbit.

 

[Snuggys Mom]

Rabbits are generally not good pets for small children. They rarely like to be picked up and will often bite or claw.

 

[MyBabyBunnies]

To be honest, rabbits are not children's pets but if you are considering one for a child, the bigger the better. Small rabbits tend to be more hyper and more likely to scratch when trying to get out of a person's arms. I have a Holland Lop (known as the Dwarf Lop in Europe) and she is crazy. I can't hold her and rarely can I even pet her without her running away. My 2 mixed breeds on the other hand, are the greatest pets, although they hate to be held, they love to lounge on the ground beside me.

Rabbits in generalare not cuddley, they do not like to held normally. Another point is that babies are not a good idea for first time rabbit owners especially for kids, they hit what's called the 'teen stage' often and rabbits can be quite mean -- biting, scratching, even attacking hands that go near them on in their cages. Your best bet would be to either get a Giant breed (they tend to be a lot calmer) or better yet, adopt an adult from a rescue or shelter. When you adopt an adult, you know what you're getting when you get it, adults will not go through that hormonal stage so if you find a cuddly adult at the shelter, there is a good chance it will stay like that.

I have to say I am pleased to see you doing your research before getting a bunny, good job!

 

[rubysmom]

I agree with MyBabyBunnies. Although rabbits are not ideal pets for children they can be a nice addition to a family that understands their behavior. I almost never hold or cuddle my rabbits. They have a 16 foot by 14 foot room and they love it when anyone comes in to see them. But on their terms. Usually they run right up to people and want pets but my male likes to be left alone except by me on occasion. So if you really are looking for a cuddly/holding pet, a rabbit probably isn't the best choice. On the other hand, my two are about 10 pounds (female is a new zealand white and male is a mixed breed) and they are very calm rabbits. Of all my fosters, the smaller breeds tended to be more high strung (generalizing obviously). All my bigs guys were pretty laid back. Check out local rabbit rescues, shelters or House Rabbit Society (www.rabbit.org). These animals are usually adults and have been socialized with people. Plus any volunteer or foster care person who has worked with them will be able to direct you to a rabbit with a suitable personality for you and your family. Good luck.

 

[queenadreena]

I think lops are quite grumpy, and look very cuddly, but tend to scratch and bite. Mini lionheads are lovely though. Mine has a adorable personality and will sit still for along time allowing cuddles and petting.

 

[rabbit_whisperer]

I'd suggest that you wait awhile if you want to get a rabbit for your child.



I also suggest something else ,it's just my opion but get an adult rabbit if you get one.

 

[Nes]

Mini rex are great pets - they are active and friendly, but they do need a person who knows what they are doing with rabbits or they can turn sour. They have great personalities, their active & adventurus, I highly recommend them

My abigale is a mini rex X lop cross - she's very active and silly but she also loves to just lie around in your lap and chill. A perfect mix and maybe along the line of what you're looking for. I HIGHLY recommend finding someone who has home raised the babies (they've been handled since birth) this will make a HUGE difference in your rabbit's friendliness. Some breeders do a good job of socialising their litters but it's not the same & with petstore rabbits... you never know. Resuces are good too.

I don't think there is anything wrong with you getting your young child a bunny - actually it can be a really good way to get them used to responsibility as long as you are willing to put in the work and monitor everything she's doing. You'll probably want to get her to clean the cage - but probably will have to help, escpecially with dissinfecting it etc. And as long as she's taught to handle the rabbits gently I've never been bit (only nipped) - a spayed/neutered animal is a must though.

Nes.