Getting a bunny is one of the most exciting things ever! And owning a bunny is one of the best things ever! Maybe your parents have decided on letting you have a bunny. Or maybe you're still learning about bunnies. Either way here are some good things to know as you look into getting a bunny or are now considering adopting one.
What Size is best?
If you are young kiddo and you and your family are getting ready to adopt a bunny for the first time you may want to look into a medium sized breed or a large breed. Although you may want a small or dwarf bunny because they look so cute and babyish it might not be so wise. Dwarf and small breeds generally have more dental and respiratory issues. They can also be quite skittish (and sometimes aggressive, trust me, I know). They also do not have as much tolerance in being patient with a young child who just wants to cuddle them. Not to say that small/dwarf breeds are bad, I'm just saying that they are probably not the best choice to make for first time bunny owners. Medium, large, and Flemish giants (although big), are generally more calm, tolerant, and less aggressive. They are more likely to cuddle up with you and they can hop more freely around the house since they will be more easily seen, and therefore not stepped on! They do eat a lot and need a bigger cage and place to play, but they are great bunnies! (And they are more likely to be welcomed by a cat or dog since they are bigger and don't look like a toy like a small/dwarf bunny would).
What Breed is good (especially for kids)?
The Dutch rabbit is a good breed (medium sized), any Flemish giant breed (large), Californian (large), Palomino (medium), French Lop (large and very cute), and the Silver Fox (large). Florida White (medium) is also a good breed, but some children don't like it because it has red eyes (silly). Keep in mind that popular rabbit breeds may not be the best for your family because many people will buy small or dwarf rabbits. Remember, dwarf/small breed are not always best for kids. Some small/dwarf breed exceptions are the Harlequin Rabbit (around 5-6lbs), Mini Lop (5lbs), and the Chinchilla Rabbit (5-8lbs). If I had to recommend the best one (in my opinion) for any first time bunny owner I would say the Dutch rabbit or Chinchilla rabbit. Be sure to look into these breeds online and in detail and see what might be best for you and your family.
What about age?
A young adult or adult is probably best. (8 months or older). They are already past their "teen" stage and don't have as much "attitude". They will also adjust pretty well to your family. A baby bunny is never a good option. Yes they look cute, but they can be difficult to train and you wont have the right experience to take good care of of it. I did get SB as a baby, but there were many challenges I faced, so I don't recommend it. Rescues and shelters probably will not give you a baby anyway. A senior bunny is nice but will likely have many medical issues and may not live very long if they are really old and need special care as they are, well, old. But if you have a heart for old bunnies or (special needs rabbits) then go for it! Just make sure you have the knowledge and patience for them as you don't want to cause more problems for them. Keep in mind though, they also need very special housing and care which you may not be able to give them. Older bunnies (as well as special needs rabbits) are probably better left to the more experienced rabbit owner. They are good bunnies though. Loyal and loving. SB was the best little old lady bun ever.
One or two?
One is better to start with, as you can always adopt another bunny and introduce them to your current bunny later. Unless you have the money and space and time to own two bunnies I wouldn't get two. (Of course if they are best friends at the shelter how could you not get both)? Bunnies need a lot of care so one may be enough of a job!
Look around and see what rabbit shelters and rescues need good homes for bunnies. Maybe consider fostering a bunny for a while. Help out at the shelters. And most important, be good, loving rabbit owner!
Please never try and catch a wild rabbit and keep them. They are WILD rabbits, not DOMESTIC rabbits and cannot be kept as pets!
