Facts about Dwarf Rabbits

Dwarf rabbits are little animals which even after they turn adult reminiscent babies. To know certain interesting facts about Dwarf rabbit origin, breeds, etc. read on...

Dwarf rabbits are the smallest breed of domestic rabbits, which are said to have originated in Europe. Dwarf rabbits are the third most popular pets in America and England after dogs and cats. They are cute and adorable, and are usually docile pets. One thing to remember before buying a dwarf rabbit is that there are pure as well as false bred dwarf rabbits in the market. The false bred dwarf rabbits are products of hybridization and look larger than the pure bred ones. 

Origin and Background
Dwarf Rabbits are also called as the Netherland Dwarf Rabbits as they were first found in Netherlands, in 1900s. They are the descendants of the small Polish rabbit breed who were inter bred with the small wild rabbits. In 1948, the Dwarf rabbits were introduced in England. Later in the 1960s, the Dwarf breed was brought to United Stated and was recognized by the American Rabbit Breeder's Association in 1969.

Physical Characteristics
Dwarf rabbits are tiny animals with an average weight of 0.7-1.4 kg. They have a small round body with thick fur, which is soft and shiny. Their head is large as compared to their body, and they have small ears which are straight and point upwards. Dwarf rabbits are available in almost 24 colors including chocolate, opal, chestnut, tortoiseshell, smoke pearl, orange, black, etc.

Nature and Training
Dwarf rabbits are said to be gentle and obedient creatures. The first litter of the Polish and wild rabbits consisted of young ones that had an unpredictable and wild behavior. Constant and selective breeding have made these rabbits gentle and docile creatures. However, one should know that every Dwarf rabbit has its own personality. Dwarf rabbits love to play and are friendly towards both, children and adults. 

Like all domestic pets, it is important to train the Dwarf rabbit from the beginning. They should be taught to use the litter cages to relieve themselves. You have to be strict with them to make them listen to you. But, avoid being harsh, as it may scare or confuse them. The Dwarf rabbits develop inappropriate behavior when they become adults. To avoid such behavior, it is best that you sterilize your pets

Food
It is essential to take extra care while feeding the Dwarf rabbit, as it is said to have a sensitive digestive system. So, overfeeding the animal should be avoided. Rabbits are plant eating animals and like to eat grasses and grains. One can feed them vegetables like carrot and certain fruits like apples or banana in moderation. Nuts and seeds should be strictly avoided, and fibrous foods are best for their health.

Breeding
Pure dwarf rabbits have a pair of genes called the Dwdw, which makes them dwarf rabbits. Sometimes, when the pure bred dwarf rabbits are bred, it so happens that tiny pea shaped rabbits are produced which are called peanuts. These rabbits are usually weak and do not live for more than 2-3 days or some weeks. Only 50% pure bred Dwarf rabbits survive after birth.

It is necessary to ensure that the Dwarf rabbit is a pure breed before buying one. One must also know that having a dwarf rabbit will be quite expensive. However, after bringing home a Dwarf rabbit, you will surely realize that it is a cute little pet that thrives on love, care and affection.

Is Your Bunny Sick?

Keeping Company With Rabbits

Are rabbits soft and fuzzy? Most definitely. Are rabbits as cuddly as they look? Not necessarily. Is a rabbit more like a cat or a dog? Neither. A rabbit is like a rabbit.
Are you expecting your rabbit to come running when called? They seldom do. However, having a carrot in hand may help. I have learned to call my rabbits out from under the bed about 10 minutes before I need them. They seem to show up "on time" this way.
Are you expecting your rabbit to curl up on your lap and sit with you? He probably won't. He may nudge your leg while you sit on the couch, expecting you to move over or pet him. Perhaps he will jump up and sit with you, allow you to pet him, and then scamper off just moments later.
Do you want to hold your bunny for hours? Well, most don't want to be held for hours. Most prefer you to be on the floor and meet them on their level. The floor is where your rabbit will allow you to snuggle with him and show your affections. This is where he is most comfortable.
The first rule in communicating with a rabbit is to get down on the floor. The second rule is also to get down on the floor. Rabbits need to be approached at their level–the floor. Spend time getting to know him where he is comfortable. If he seems to avoid you at first, spend time just sitting quietly on the floor, not approaching him, not trying to pick him up. Rabbits are naturally wary, but also naturally curious. Eventually curiosity will win out and your rabbit will come over to investigate you.
Try snuggling close, face to face. When he feels comfortable with you, he may allow you to pick him up. Do not rush this introduction. Remember, a rabbit is an animal of prey, and it may take time for him to gain trust in you. The first time he nudges you or grooms you, the process of trust has begun and a special honor has been bestowed upon you: He is communicating with you as he would communicate with a fellow rabbit.
As with any animal, or humans for that matter, each has his or her own personality. Some are active and crave attention. Some are shy or aloof. If a rabbit is shy, you need to make the effort to interact with him. Although shy rabbits may become more sociable with time, do not expect a different personality. This seemingly reserved behavior is actually more common and "rabbit-like" than the interactive rabbit of folklore who plays with the children.
Most important, love your rabbit. Whoever he or she is, whatever the color, markings, direction of ears, habits or personality, all are of value and deserve our love and companionship. Each will enrich your life in his or her own special way.