Do Netherland Dwarf rabbits make good pets?
The first dwarf rabbits behaved more like these wild rabbits than domestic animals and were not good pets. However, through generations of selective breeding, the modern Netherland Dwarf has become a gentle, friendly pet rabbit, though it still can retain a more energetic disposition than larger breeds.
Is it OK to keep two female rabbits together?
Rabbits are naturally sociable, so they need companionship of their own kind. They will be much happier living in pairs or compatible groups, and will become very lonely if kept on their own. It is easiest if rabbits are kept together from birth, but rabbits less than 12 weeks old will usually live together happily.
How long are Netherland Dwarfs pregnant for?
A rabbit’s gestation period is typically between 31-33 days. When a doe gives birth, it is called kindling. Kindling takes around 15 minutes and usually occurs in the early hours of the morning. The process of giving birth is instinctive, so they hardly ever need human help.
Are Netherland Dwarfs hard to breed?
Netherland dwarf rabbits are loveable and pretty to play with. If you wish to breed your own bunch of dwarf bunnies, it’s important to know early that it is not as simple as it is in humans. There are only so many homes for the rabbits you do not need. Do not breed more babies than you can take care of.
What do you need to know about Netherland Dwarf rabbits?
Netherland Dwarf rabbits need to have their teeth checked regularly for signs of malocclusion, and tracking their weight will also help to tell you if they are managing to eat properly. As well as the health risks of their shape, Netherland Dwarf rabbits are susceptible to the same infectious diseases as all rabbits.
What happens if you have two copies of dwarf gene?
Sadly for them, inheriting two copies of the Dwarf gene is fatal – kittens are invariably stillborn, or die shortly birth due to abnormalities in their brain and digestive system. Rabbits with the Dwarf/Normal combination are true Dwarves – these are the Netherland Dwarf bunnies that are eligible for the show ring and command the most money.
Are there Dwarf rabbits that are good for kids?
I have found the dwarf rabbits are more temperamental and therefor not the best choice for children. The larger breeds and the lops are much more friendly to children’s sudden movements, pick up/drop attitudes and more pliable.
What’s the difference between a false dwarf and a true dwarf rabbit?
False dwarves are a little longer and heavier, with ears set slightly further apart. The difference is small, and only really significant if you plan to breed baby Netherland Dwarf bunnies. But it’s also quite interesting, so let’s go there briefly. Rabbits inherit all their genes in pairs – one half from each parent (just like we do!).
How much does a Netherland Dwarf rabbit cost?
Netherland dwarf rabbits can cost between $30 and $90. This is a bit more expensive than other domestic rabbit breeds. You can find pet rabbits either through rabbit breeders or through Classified advertisements.
Where did the Northland dwarf rabbit get its name?
Smaller than a cat but larger than a hamster, they really make great cuddle buddies for young kids. Northland Dwarfs, as the name suggests were first bred in Holland. White dwarf rabbits in Holland are known as “Pol” hence the term Polish rabbit.
What kind of personality does a Netherland Dwarf Rabbit have?
Netherland Dwarf rabbit personality is still very close to wild rabbit temperament. They are very alert, energetic, and constantly on the move looking for tasty food sources. In small groups and in familiar surroundings the Netherland Dwarf rabbit personality is often playful. They enjoy having a stash of toys to explore.
What kind of diseases do Netherland Dwarf rabbits get?
As well as the health risks of their shape, Netherland Dwarf rabbits are susceptible to the same infectious diseases as all rabbits. Myxomatosis is a nasty virus spread by mosquitoes and fleas. It usually begins with puffy eyelids, pus-producing conjunctivitis, and swelling all over the body.
Are dwarf bunnies real?
Defining Dwarf Bunnies Actually, a dwarf gene is what makes rabbits officially a dwarf. And the dwarf gene does slightly more than just produce a small rabbit. Dwarfism in rabbits is also shown through other traits, including a compact body, shorter ears, and a rounder head. Not all rabbit breeds carry the dwarf gene.
Do Dwarf rabbits smell?
But don’t rabbits smell bad? No they don’t! Rabbits themselves are very clean animals with odourless fur and they fastidiously groom themselves all day. Only their urine smells so as long as you keep their living area clean (spot clean every few days and a full clean-out once a week) you shouldn’t have a problem.
