Our pets tend to be lonely if we are not around, and, truth be told, we do spend a lot of time outside, providing for them, and the family. If your heart skips a beat at the mere thought of your own rabbits and dogs getting along in one room, then you are at the right place. Here are some things that you should take into consideration when it comes to introducing the two of them.
Adopting two babies
Ideally, dogs and rabbits should be introduced from the earliest age. If you can adopt them as babies, that will make your life much easier. Just like children, baby animals naturally tend to get along with other babies. If both of them are small then they won’t feel threatened by the other, who could be bigger in size. Rabbits are known to respect hierarchy, and you don’t want to cause unnecessary trouble.
Dogs on the other hand can be quite territorial, so you better tackle the issue before both of them get a chance to show their most distinctive characteristics. If they get to know each other when young, they will get used to the surroundings as they grow up, identifying the other pet as a legitimate family member. In case there is no way for you to adopt them at the same time, then we will explore more options that will still allow you to improve their relationship.
How to introduce your bunny to the dog?
- There are certain types of dogs that are less dangerous for your new pet: Huskies, Terriers and German shepherds tend to be hostile therefore increasing the risk of frequent fights.
- Breeds such as Maltese, Golden Retriever or Japanese chin will most probably see your bunny as a friend.
- Bunnies also differ in character, so you might want to consider adopting a calmer type, such as Flemish or California giant, who won’t feel as threatened.
- It is your responsibility to train the dog and protect the bunny. Don’t leave them unattended in the process, as both rabbits and dogs can react impulsively.
- When introducing your pet to a resident dog, make sure to give the bunny enough time and space to settle. They should have their own area, whether is it a cage or a room.
Those soft little balls of fur can be easily stressed, so make them feel welcome and comfortable in their new home. The most important thing is to patiently wait for your rabbit to make the first move when it feels ready.
Increase the chances by training your dog
The impulse control training is what works best in this case. If you teach your dog manners, then your new pet will have a better chance to blend in the family. As you already probably know, disobedient dogs tend to attack other animals more often. Following some simple steps will ensure you increase the chances of them getting along in the long-run.
- Let them interact with each other under your vigilant supervision. They are very tender animals and you want to avoid stressing them out by letting your dog off a leash.
- Allow them to sniff one another, without intervening. If you are able to get your dog to ask for your permission to approach the rabbit, then you are already halfway there.
- If you notice the bigger pet getting closer, make it sit, or ultimately, get the dog out of the room. This is where obedience training should kick in. Rabbits can easily get scared as they are not as playful as dogs, which often results in mistaking their behavior for aggression.
- Make sure to praise good conduct, offering treats to both, as that will reinforce the positive behavior. The good thing about this technique is that you can repeat it as many times as you like. At some point you will you start to feel more confident about the whole situation.
- Try taking both of them out for a walk where they will get a chance to bond closer together.
How to introduce a puppy to your pet rabbit?
Although this is usually not the case, you still might find yourself in a position of bringing a puppy home to your resident rabbit. The rules stay the same, as you shouldn’t allow your canine friend to get too excited when interacting with the rabbit. The first encounter should always be with rabbits in the cage and dogs on a leash, so you could control the situation. Praising and rewarding good behavior, and discouraging the disobedience is crucial at this stage. Don’t push any of them and let things unravel at a natural pace.
Remember, you want them to get along for a lifetime, so you might as well wait for a couple of weeks before they get used to a new guest. If you notice your rabbit reacting defensively, call it a day, and try again tomorrow. Then the next time you get them together, offer your bunny a treat, so it can associate those meetings with feelings of pleasure. Introducing a small dog to a rabbit shouldn’t be that difficult after all. What the puppies want to do is play and socialize. It is never too early to start the training, as a matter of fact, the younger they are when you begin the easier it will be for them to connect.
Can they become actual friends?
Pet rabbits and pet dogs are sure to bring more joy into your family. If you train your resident pet, the other one will have higher chances of successfully settling in their new home. There are a couple of things you should bear in mind when it comes to this unusual friendship.
- No matter how good they progress, always leave some designated space for your rabbit in case it wants to hide. As mentioned before, they are quite sensitive souls who don’t enjoy the company of overly-playful dogs.
- We know they are both your pets and you love them dearly, but never make the mistake of serving them food in one bowl in the same feeding area. At the end of the day, they both need their privacy and a sense of personal space.
- Don’t let the dog run after your rabbit; that way your canine pal will adopt a risky habit that could create a hostile environment for the rabbit.
- You are the one who calls the shots, and the final decision is in your hands. When you feel absolutely sure that they have reached a safe zone, then you ought to let them play together.
Both pets are highly social animals, who require spending quality time with humans. However they can also benefit from the company of other pets.
What is your role in all this?
You as the pet owner are to ensure both of these loving species get the loving home they deserve. Training your dog and providing your rabbit with a shelter is not the only thing you can do to help them co-habit in harmony. If you don’t want your dog to mistaken the rabbit for a toy, then you ought to buy some dog toys beforehand.
Also, spend enough time with your dog outside, walking and playing, so they don’t misuse the excessive energy and take it out on another pet. Another thing is, be very patient. We cannot stress enough how important it is for you to supervise their play, constantly rewarding good and reprimanding bad behavior.
The good news is that there are many positive reports about dogs and rabbits living happily under one roof. What stands out in these records is that it usually takes owners a long time to get there. The process doesn’t have to be as tedious as it might sound, however, you ought to guide their play and make sure not to leave them in one room when you are not around.
Do they have anything in common?
Good that you have asked because dogs and rabbits do share many mutual traits. Apart from being social, they both like to be caressed and spoiled. Regular brushing sessions will make them tremendously happy, although they won’t blink an eye before ruining your grooming efforts for a good play session in the mud. Freedom is their second name, and they need to have designed shelters in order to feel safe and express their affectionate nature. Even though they share common virtues, you will notice how every pet has its unique character that needs to be respected. Getting to know your furry friend is, therefore, the single most important factor that will determine the relationship quality.
So the answer to the question above is yes, rabbits and dogs can get along under the right circumstances. Introducing a new pet, whether it is a puppy or a rabbit, is sure to raise some concerns in your household. But then again, every change is bound to do the same.
By taking the time to properly train your pets without intruding in their space, you will undoubtedly succeed in bringing them closer together.