Fancy rabbits do therefore require a bit more time and attention in caring for their coats but despite this, as they are so beautiful and cute they are the commonest rabbit type to be sold in regular pet outlets such as pet stores. It does need to be borne in mind though that when you get a rabbit of this type you are taking on a fairly substantial time commitment.

Popular breeds of “Fancy” rabbits are the dwarf lop, Dutch and English, sold at the majority of livestock pet shops. Although these are the most popular breeds of “Fancy” rabbit there are many more.

Netherland dwarf Rabbit

Netherland dwarf rabbits are very active; they tend not to get on with cats or dogs so a home with no cats and/or dogs and a owner with room for him to run around would make a perfect retreat for a Netherland dwarf. As of their surprisingly small size they would not make great pets for children and a sense of time and patience would make this rabbit a tame and great pet. They have great character and are amusing to watch. Housing such as a cage or hutch does not need to be particularly big for these creatures, but as always the bigger the better, for any animal.

Dwarf Lop Rabbit

Dwarf lops make great pets with children and adults, although rabbits are not good pets for small children (below 10 years old) but 10 years and above children who understand the needs of a rabbit should be fine. Unlike the part of the name “Dwarf” these rabbits get fairly large around twice the size of they are in pet stores. It is advised to keep this breed as an outside pet because it is essential they have a big living area. Brushing them every other day as an absolutes minimum is required. They are overall great, friendly, cuddly pets as we have also found out from having five of them!

English Rabbit

English rabbits have a beautiful spotted pattern, some looking rather like Dalmatians! Their colours range from beige, black, brown, blonde, chocolate, tortoise, lilac, blue, gold and grey, quite a rainbow of rabbits! If you have little time on your hands English rabbits may be for you because they require very little grooming (once a week at a minimum) except in moulting season where 3-4 times a week is required.

Angora Rabbit

These come in a variety of different subtypes which vary in colour and size but the commonest are white albinos. Their fur is so long it has the distinction of being the only type of rabbit whose fur can be spun into wool. Their character is generally calm and docile but they still require careful handling and are generally regarded as being more suited to the experienced owner, largely as a result of their long fur. Another complication of this to be aware of is the formation of fur balls and as they are unable to vomit these can actually kill the rabbit with "fur block". Which is why meticulous brushing and grooming is necessary.

Flemish Giant Rabbit

These are truly the giants of the fancy rabbit breeds and can grow to over 10 kg's in weight. Despite their size they have a very gentle disposition and are actually one of the easier rabbit breeds to handle. If you can accommodate a rabbit of this size they can make a great pet. Their size makes them very robust and their pleasant nature means they can even be handled by smaller children. Although, obviously younger children should always be supervised with any animals.

To learn about Satin and Rex fur rabbits go to the next article in the series.

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