Breeding of dwarf rabbits

Rabbits are popular companion animals. The current situation in the Czech Republic is such that rabbits are the third most popular type of pet, right after dogs and cats. From the currently wide gene pool of domestic rabbits, dwarf rabbits are primarily bred for pet purposes. Breeding dwarf rabbits requires certain differences compared to commercial rabbit production, and these must be respected.

Selection of a Dwarf Rabbit

There are three basic ways to obtain a dwarf rabbit. The first option is purchasing from a breeder who is a member of the Czech Breeders Association. In such breeding programs, rabbits are primarily bred for exhibition purposes. However, even in purebred breeding, offspring may occasionally appear with undesirable coloring or markings. In terms of type, they are still dwarf rabbits, but they are not suitable for shows. Nevertheless, such rabbits can make wonderful companions, and the buyer has the assurance that, with proper care, they will truly remain dwarf in size.

Moreover, buyers have the option to purchase an optimally colored young rabbit with a pedigree, and good breeders usually provide advice and guidance. The optimal age for taking a rabbit home is 7–10 weeks, depending on its physical development and growth. Purchasing from an organized breeder is the most recommended method.

The second option is buying a rabbit from a pet shop. These usually offer crossbreeds of dwarf breeds and colors. A disadvantage is that the buyer cannot see the parents. Socialization may also be an issue, especially if the rabbit has been in the shop for a longer time and is older. The third and least recommended option is buying through classified ads, which is a highly uncertain method.

Requirements for Keeping Dwarf Rabbits

The current standard for keeping dwarf rabbits is a cage with a plastic bottom. The recommended cage length is about 100 cm for dwarf breeds such as the Netherland Dwarf or Hermelin (maximum weight 1.5 kg). For a dwarf lop rabbit (naturally heavier—up to about 2 kg), a 120 cm long cage is more suitable.

Wood shavings or special bedding are used on the cage floor, with a thin layer of straw placed on top. The straw serves both as bedding and as a way to prevent boredom. A water bottle (nipple drinkers are the most practical) and feeding bowls for concentrated feed are essential. Hay can be offered in racks (external types are ideal) or placed on a resting platform. With very good hygiene, it can be offered in limited amounts on the floor. High-quality straw can also be used instead of hay, depending on availability.

A modern trend is the use of playpens placed around the cage. However, the surrounding area must be adapted accordingly, and greater room contamination should be expected. Additionally, once tamed, the rabbit can be allowed to roam freely in the room outside the cage, but always under supervision and usually only for 1–2 hours. All dangerous items must be removed beforehand.

Feeding Dwarf Rabbits

The basis of a dwarf rabbit’s diet is sufficient hay as a source of fiber. Alternatively, high-quality straw can be used. Roughage should be provided daily. It is advisable to observe the daily amount consumed and adjust the ration accordingly.

When feeding concentrated feed, approximately 20–30 g per kg of body weight per day is recommended. This is roughly the amount a rabbit consumes within 15–30 minutes after being offered. A common mistake is overfeeding concentrated feed, which leads to obesity and related serious health problems. Likewise, the old habit of feeding dry bread is now considered a dietary mistake according to modern knowledge.

With proper care, dwarf rabbits live on average 5–6 years.