British Giant Rabbit Breed History/Origin
Breeders developed the British Giant Rabbit in the 1940s in the United Kingdom. They began breeding the Flemish Giant that was found in the UK with Flemish Giants that were brought into the area from the United States. Up to that point, the Flemish Giant was only accepted in a single color, which was steel grey, so the breeders used other colors that were coming in from the US in order to create a new breed that would have a wider variety of colors.
The British Giant turned out to be smaller than the Flemish Giant, but the breeds are otherwise the same. However, the British Giant is mostly found in the UK and is not considered a popular rabbit breed outside of that part of the world.
The British Giant Rabbit is a good choice for families with children.
Overall Description
The British Giant Rabbit is a giant breed that could grow to be as large as 15 pounds. These rabbits feature a powerful, large body that is flat across the back but features wide hindquarters and a wide front.
The face should be round and broad, and there should be large, erect ears and full cheeks.
Coat
The fur of a British Giant Rabbit will be medium in length, soft, and dense. You should groom this rabbit regularly in order to keep the fur in top condition, as well as to prevent it from matting.
Colors
The British Giant Rabbit was bred to showcase a variety of colors, and those include steel grey, opal, sable, white, blue, and black.
The British Giant Rabbit makes a wonderful family pet and house rabbit.
Care Requirements
Because the British Giant Rabbit is so large, you will need to provide your pet with a large enclosure and space to exercise and play. Purchase a hutch that is an appropriate size for your rabbit’s body, or you could opt for a Wendy house or a dedicated shed.
When housed outside, make sure your rabbit is kept away from full sun and wind. Your pet’s outdoor hutch should also be weatherproof and waterproof. Always ensure your pet has a safe area where he can sunbathe and explore.
This is also one of the best rabbit breeds to house indoors because these animals are so good-natured, affectionate, and calm. However, your rabbit will want to chew on things, such as shoes and furnishings, so rabbit-proof your home and keep an eye on him while he is outside of his cage. Also provide your indoor rabbit with a safe and quiet area where he could rest without being disturbed. You can use a dog crate that has a plastic bottom, and you can provide your pet with a variety of toys.
Health
British Giants are considered to be generally hardy. However, because of the breed’s size, sore feet and back problems, as well as other ailments, might arise. These pets are also prone to becoming obese. Overweight rabbits will have trouble caring for themselves and grooming themselves, and they could become vulnerable to fly strike. Therefore, it’s important to ensure your rabbit maintains the ideal weight throughout his life.
Dental problems can also develop in a British Giant Rabbit, as the teeth constantly grow and could become overgrown quickly. The best way to prevent these problems is by giving your pet the right foods that will help wear the teeth down properly. These include fibrous green veggies and hays that require quite a bit of chewing.
The British Giant Rabbit could grow to be as large as 15 pounds.
Temperament/Behavior
The British Giant Rabbit makes a wonderful family pet and house rabbit, as the breed is known for being gentle, easy going, and docile. These rabbits are also litter trainable, so observe where your pet prefers to go to the bathroom and put a tray in that area so that he will learn how to use it. Use a wood pellet based litter rather than clay litter.
British Giants will get along well with children and other pets, including dogs and cats, especially when introduced at a early age. They are not too active, and they enjoy lounging and relaxing, but you should still provide your pet with some playtime. When handled consistently and from an early age, these rabbits become affectionate and will thoroughly enjoy snuggling with you. They thrive on human interaction and affection, so you should have the time to devote to this pet if you are planning on bringing one home.
Although these rabbits are a good choice for families with children, you should teach your kids how to gently and safely handle your rabbit, as well as how to behave around rabbits so that they don’t become frightened or stressed.
Photo credit: the_water_cooler/Flickr; yazlot/Flickr; Tony Austin/Flickr
