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.
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.
