Last Updated on June 22, 2023 by Admin
If you have a dog and are thinking of getting a bunny or vice versa, then you’re probably wondering what rabbit breeds get along with dogs. Considering that rabbits are prey animals while dogs are predators, the two coexisting seem unnatural and unlikely. However, it’s quite possible if you adopt a rabbit breed that’s confident and friendly while also ensuring that your dog has a low prey drive. This article looks at the best rabbit breeds that get along with dogs
British Giant
This particular breed is quite friendly and also gets along with most dog breeds such as the Maltese, Boston Terrier, bulldogs, Boxer, and poodles, to name a few. British giants weigh on average 13 to 15 pounds (6 to 7 kg) and they’re considered the largest rabbit breed in the UK. If possible introduce the two species at a young age or gradually do so if either one of your pets is fully grown. Although British giant rabbits tolerate dogs, they’re less active than most bunnies that get along with dogs.
Californian
The Californian rabbit is another breed that gets along with dogs as well as most pets. They have a docile and friendly temperament making them a great interspecies pair. Californians are more tolerant of dogs and other pets since they were mainly bred for meat and are also used as show animals. This particular breed weighs on average between 7 to 9 pounds and may thrive both indoors and outdoors, around well-mannered dogs.
Checkered
This particular breed pairs well with a high-energy trained dog since they’re quite lively and friendly. Once trust is earned between a checkered rabbit and a dog, they can build a strong bond and become the best pair. Considering that they’re an energetic breed, they usually do well in an outdoor setting with a playful well-mannered dog.
Continental giant
This giant breed is another great rabbit that gets along with most dogs. It’s calm, friendly, and easier to train. In addition, continental giants are less skittish than your average-sized bunny. They basically thrive in the company of dogs and other pets if properly introduced. This giant breed gets along with Bichon Frise, Boxer, Maltese, Poodles, and Boston terriers among others.
Dutch
Dutch rabbit breeds are gentle, friendly, and also intelligent. In addition, they’re hyper and also affectionate pets. These bunnies weigh an average of 4 to 5 pounds and are usually more tolerant to miniature-sized or larger calm dog breeds. Furthermore, Dutch rabbits not only do well around dogs but they also thrive well with large families.
Flemish
Considered among the largest rabbit breeds, Flemish giants are also one of the most popular breeds that get along with dogs. They weigh on average between 15 to 22 pounds and are also referred to as gentle giants due to their gentle nature. Flemish rabbits are also confident and smart pets, hence the reason why they’re easier to pair with most low-prey drive dogs.
Giant Chinchilla
The Giant chinchilla is a docile and calm rabbit that gets along with mild-mannered dog breeds. However, the rule of thumb is to avoid pairing these gentle giants with hunting dog breeds. A Giant chinchilla is also an active breed that normally thrives in a large family setup. Some of the best dogs to pair them with are Bulldogs, Maltese, Golden retrievers, poodles, pugs, etc.
Harlequin
This particular rabbit breed is another great pet that may get along with most trained and well-mannered dogs. Harlequin rabbits are an active and quite intelligent breed. They’re also easier to train due to their docile nature. Lastly, harlequins tend to get along with bulldogs, Boston terriers, great Pyrenees, pugs, and poodles.
Havana
Havana rabbits usually get along with dogs and most pets. They’re an active and friendly breed that will easily bond with small or large mild-tempered dogs. Havana’s are great with Bulldogs, Boxer, Basset Hound, Maltese, Japanese Chin, and Coton De Tulear.
Himalayan
Himalayans are another rabbit breed that gets along with well-trained dogs. They have a calm and friendly temperament and are less skittish than most rabbits. Himalayans are a great rabbit breed that not only gets along with dogs but most cats as well. In addition, this particular bunny also thrives on human interaction, hence making them great pets.
Holland Lop
This gentle and friendly rabbit is a great choice to pair with your dogs. They love attention and normally thrive on human interaction. Holland lops are indeed a family pet that can get along with most high-energy dogs. Some of these dog breeds include the Golden Retriever, Boston Terrier, Miniature Schnoodle, and Miniature Poodle.
Sussex
Sussex rabbits are compatible with most dog breeds since they’re confident, inquisitive, and generally affectionate pets. This bunny is also easier to train and mostly does great with low-prey drive dog breeds. Some of the mild-tempered dogs a Sussex rabbit they may get along with are the Maltese, Coton de Tulear, Great Pyrenees, Bulldogs, and Golden Retriever.
Lionhead
Lionheads are docile, friendly, and quite intelligent rabbit breeds that get along with well-trained dogs. In other words, they normally thrive around dogs as well as other well-mannered pets. However, just like your Coton de Tulear or cairn terrier dogs, Lionhead rabbits also need proper grooming.
Polish
Polish bunnies are affectionate, docile, and even-tempered which makes it easier for them to blend with most rabbit-friendly dogs. Some of the common breeds include Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Boston Terrier, Bulldog, and Pug. If you’re planning to adopt or introduce any of the dogs mentioned for the first time, gradually do so and place a barrier around your dwarf rabbit as a precaution
Rex rabbit
Rex rabbits enjoy being in the company of not only their kind but other pets which includes low prey drive dogs. This particular rabbit breed has a calm and friendly temperament. Rex breeds also have great maternal instincts hence the reason why they get along with dogs. Some of the compatible breeds include the Boxer, Bichon Frisé, Papillon Viszla, Japanese Chin, and Maltese.
Conclusion
When introducing the two species, do so gradually and under strict supervision. In addition, the less prey drive and docile your dog is, the most likely they let along with your rabbits in the long run. It’s worth pointing out however that, there are no guarantees specifically when it comes to what rabbit breeds get along with dogs. Unfortunately, a rabbit and dog pair may sometimes fail to get along, the same way they would within their own species.
