Dog Breeds That Can Get Along With Rabbits
andreas strauss
March 1, 2022
Different animal species aren’t always compatible with each other; it’s simply the authority of nature’s ecosystem. However, with evolution in nature, domestic animals have adapted and got used to each other’s company, whether scaly, furry or fluffy. In fact, many pet shelters and pet owners have witnessed long-lasting but unlikely bonds between two different four-legged friends.
Despite this, you should always consider your pets’ breeds according to their natural behaviours. For example, dogs are natural predators and their prey drive instinct can prove harmful for a bunny. However, some dog species are calm and can coexist with bunnies. Here we’ll walk through a few dog breeds that are best suited to a home with a rabbit.
Rabbit Friendly Dogs
Maltese
A friendly, companion dog and one of the tiniest dog breeds with the ability to pleasantly live with your rabbit. However, they can be fierce and difficult to tame without the right training. With regular practice, it can be a preferable pet to share a room with a bunny.
Basset Hound
With a low prey drive and loving behaviour, a Basset Hound is ideal for a multi-pet owner. Though they belong to the Hound-hunting family, they are relaxed and friendly. Rabbits can be extremely comfortable around bassets owing to their calm attitude.
Bernese Mountain Dog
These Switzerland-based herding dogs are typically bred as watchdogs and conveyors. Though they display strong and sturdy exteriors, they have a friendly and peaceful nature.
These mountain dogs are easy to train and admired for their endearing temperament. Your rabbit can hop and play around them because a Bernese intends no harm.
Boxer
With a muscular body and sturdy face, boxers are usually perceived as aggressive dogs. But surprisingly, boxers can be a great match with your rabbit with consistent training and regular practice.
Originally known for their intelligence and guarding abilities but boxers also exhibit affectionate behaviour and friendliness.
Coton De Tulear
Coton signifies cotton and this breed is a real cotton ball with fluffy fur and white coat. An intelligent and socially cheerful canine breed that can get along with various other pets.
Rigorous training is advised before sharing space with a newcomer. However, with skilful training, a Coton De Tulear can live in harmony with other small pets.
Related: Expert Tips on How to Ensure Your Dog and Cat Get Along
Golden Retriever
All dog lovers are aware of the loving and caring nature of golden retrievers. The breed possesses a low prey-drive but does have instincts of chasing down pets. They’re playful! According to Totally Goldens, retrievers have inherited this predatory chasing behaviour, as they initially bred to retrieve things for their hunting owners, hence they have the tendency to trace down or chase small animals.
But with training and exercising, rabbits can comfortably live with golden retrievers.
Labrador Retriever
Immensely popular for their tolerance and patience, Labrador Retrievers are the go-to option for many dog owners. Their ability to socialise can be triggered with practice and training but they have a natural inclination to live with non-canine animals. However, their high-spirited behaviour can cause stress to rabbits hence, so training is advised.
Japanese Chin
Extremely friendly and affectionate towards family members and other pets, Japanese Chins have been much-loved companion dogs for years. With a shy and reserved attitude around strangers, chances are a rabbit could even overpower a Japanese Chin. Bring your dog into the space slowly and allow the dog to investigate the rabbit in its outdoor hutch.
With practice, Chins can also be social and friendly but do not push friendships between new pets.
Australian Shepherd
This is an ideal breed that can live with other pets and also guard your house in times of danger. Australian Shepherds are herding dogs with high stamina and courage. You will need a special trainer to tame their natural predator instincts. But with time and practice, they will exhibit natural socializing abilities.
The Great Pyrenees
A mountaineer dog with a beautiful white coat and brawny body, Great Pyrenees are generally used for guarding livestock. However, they have an affectionate and loving nature. With an active and energetic lifestyle, it will need time to socialize with small animals but the right training will be effective.
Bichon Frise
Lively and socially well-behaved dogs are not only friendly with humans but can get along with other pets as well. A fluffy coat with a cute smile intends no harm to anybody. It is naturally a companion dog and loves to be around people or other animals.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A small breed hailing from the United Kingdom, the King can be easily trained owing to its ability of obedience. An energetic and active species by nature will need proper training before introducing to a rabbit. With time though, a Charles Spaniel will get along with a rabbit and could even establish a friendship.
The Friendly Dog Breeds for Co-Habitation With Other Pets
So, there you have it! 12 dog breeds with low prey drive and the ability to co-exist with other pets. Though we’ve listed these breeds, there’s no substantial proof that your dog will not chase the rabbit, or even get along. Even after years of friendship, predator instinct can be triggered without supervision. Hence, Care Animal Hospital advises to never leave the two without anyone supervising.
Do your research before adding a pooch or a floof-ball to your family to ensure a safe and cheerful environment for your wonderful pets!
Photo by Francis Delapena
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