Flemish Giant Rabbit

by Diana Faria

Published: June 25th, 2016

About Flemish Giant Rabbit

Weight

9-14 lb

Lifespan

5-8 years

Body Shape

Semi-Arch/Mandolin

Best Suited For

Rabbits for Singles, House Rabbits, Families with children, First-time owners, Indoor/Outdoor enclosures

Temperament

Friendly, docile, sweet

Size

Giant

Comparable Breeds

French Lop, Giant Angora Rabbit

Flemish Giant Rabbit Breed History/Origin

The Flemish Giant rabbit is an old breed and researchers are still not sure on its origins. Some say they are descendants from Patagonian and/or Stone rabbits, which were breeds raised for their meat and fur. Others say they are descendants of the Argentinian Patagonian rabbit – questions concerning their history continue to be unanswered.

What we do know is that this breed came from Belgium and England to America in the 1890s and it wasn’t until the early 1900s that the breed began to make appearances in livestock shows. The National Federation of Flemish Giant Rabbit Breeders (NFFGRB) was formed in 1915 and when the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) was formed in 1924, the NFFGRB became part of that association. The Flemish Giant became an ARBA recognized breed in 1929.

The Flemish Giant Rabbit has a glossy, short and dense coat.

Overall Description

True to their name, the Flemish Giant Rabbit is indeed an imposingly large breed. On average, these popular rabbits weigh 15 pounds on average once they are fully grown. Granted, there are much bigger specimens of the breed recorded, with males weighing up to 22 pounds and females up to 20 pounds. But, while it’s undeniable that their impressive size is the most striking thing about these rabbits, it’s not the only appearance trait that appeals to bunny owners.

A Flemish Giant Rabbit will have a mandolin or semi-arched body shape, with a well-defined rise starting near the shoulders. The highest point of the body’s arch is at the hip, giving them a graceful appearance. Their bodies are long and strong, well-muscled but not fat. Males (bucks) have a broader, more massive head than females (does) who can also have a dewlap. The usual length of these rabbits is about 20 inches, but one Flemish Giant Rabbit made history when it became the longest recorded rabbit- at a whopping 4 feet and 3 inches. The ears are erect, thick and around 5 inches in height.

Coat

The Flemish Giant’s coat is glossy, short and dense. This is the so-called rollback fur. Because it is not long like that of the Angoras, for example, they do not require much grooming. Regular brushing with a slicker brush will be more than enough to keep their hair lustrous and soft.

Rabbits tend to shed more than usual during the springtime months, so make sure to increase the grooming frequency at that time. It’s important to help your pet get rid of loose hair, otherwise, they can end up ingesting most of it, which leads to serious health issues.

Colors

The ARBA accepts only seven varieties of the Flemish Giant Rabbit. This includes the following colors: sandy, fawn, white, light gray, steel grey, black and blue. The ARBA does not accept any combinations of color, also known as “broken patterns”

Many Flemish Giants play with other dogs and can be seen cuddling alongside them.

Care Requirements

This particular rabbit can live in indoor or outdoor enclosures/cages, depending on the owner’s housing situation. Outdoor rabbits should have a hutch, however they should not have any stairs or ramps leaving to another level because of its size. Either indoor/outdoor enclosures need to be large enough so your Flemish Giant Rabbit can stretch out and hop inside of it. As a rule of thumb, for this giant breed, this would mean a minimum of 3 feet by 4 feet. Some owners have found out that large dog crates work perfectly well for their rabbit and have set the inside to cater to their rabbit’s needs. In any case, rabbit cages need to have a solid bottom (not wire) and need to be laid with bedding. Bedding needs to be spot-cleaned every day and completely replaced at the end of every week.

Regardless of how spacious and comfy their enclosure is, Flemish Giants will need to spend plenty of time outside of it. Keeping a bunny full-time in a cage is cruel, especially when you have a large, active breed such as this one. On a daily basis, let out your rabbit to hop about freely and explore his environment at his own pace. In case they are indoors, thoroughly bunny proof the room before letting them out. All bunnies are big chewers, but Flemish Giant especially so, as they have the strength to make even more damage if you let them. Protecting furniture from bunnies and bunnies from electric cables is a must if you want your pet to play safely and without any destructive consequences for your belongings.

For those rabbits who get to play in a yard, make sure to securely fence the area where you are letting them roam and always supervise them. Flemish Giant Might be a bit big for most predators (but still, not for all!) but there’s still a possibility of them hopping over a fence or finding a hole to go through.

When it comes to nutrition, Flemish Giant’s diet is no different than any other rabbit breed – they only need more food because of their size. They enjoy a diet comprised mostly and hay (about 70 percent). They also enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables including carrots, watercress, red or green lettuce, celery, mango, pear, and peach. Select leafy greens can also be added into their diet so long as they do not have high water content. They also enjoy daily pellets – adult rabbits will eat about 1/4 cup of high-fiber pellets everyday for every five pounds they weigh. Considering this rabbit’s size, they do require quite a lot of food so financial responsibility is definitely needed in order to properly feed them.

Health

Besides having sore hocks as a direct result of wire-bottomed cage, Flemish Giants are not particularly susceptible to any hereditary disease or health complication.

Having said that, there are a few health problems you need to be aware of before purchasing a rabbit.The most common issue with rabbits is overgrown teeth- unlike most animals, their teeth just keep on growing as long as they live. Usually, rabbits who have a high-fiber diet of hay won’t have these issues, as their teeth wear down from chewing on roughage. However, if you find your rabbit’s teeth seem to be growing a little faster than they are wearing down, provide straw or wicker mats, rabbit-safe blocks of wood or straw baskets. These are a great way for them to have fun and wear down those teeth to boot. Seventy percent of their diet should be hay, though, so make sure you’re not skimping on hay in favor of fruits and veggies.

Rabbit ears also need to be checked regularly for ear mites, which is more common with outdoor rabbits than indoor ones. Finally, they should also be given a pea-sized amount of de-worming paste twice a year as a preventative measure.

Other issues include sniffles, GI stasis, or infectious diseases. In case you notice anything amiss with your bunny, from eye discharge to constipation or simple unusual behavior, contact a veterinarian that specializes in small animals.

The Flemish Giant is also known as “Universal Rabbit” and “Gentle Giant.”

Temperament/Behavior

The Flemish Giant rabbit has two nicknames – the “Universal Rabbit” because of it is a breed that serves all four rabbit purposes (meat, show, coat and pet) and a “Gentle Giant” because it is so well-mannered and docile. Despite its large size, they are a recommended rabbit breed for first-time owner, as they are relatively low maintenance and have sweet personalities. This also makes them great pets for singles, couples and families with children of any age. Because they are so large, children should not attempt to pick this rabbit up but instead play with them while they are on the ground (which means stroking their fur, nuzzling them, petting them, etc).

A great advantage with this breed being so large is that some owners have found that dog harnesses for medium-sized dog breeds fit this rabbit well. There are some who enjoy taking their rabbit out in the back/front yard on the harness, and if your yard is not fenced, putting your rabbit on a leash is a great idea. Be sure to slowly introduce the harness and reward them when they have made progress. Like other rabbit breeds, their personalities will also flourish when given some toys they can chew and play with. This can include balls, rabbit-safe wooden blocks and toys purchased from your local pet store. Rabbits do not generally become upset or possessive over toys, so having children play with their toys while they are around should not be a problem, especially because Flemish Giants are so well-mannered.

Unlike some rabbit breeds, Flemish Giants generally do well with other animals in the house as well so long as the other animal don’t mind the rabbit’s presence. There are many cases of Flemish Giants playing with other dogs (generally larger ones like Labradors, Golden Retrievers, etc.) and can be seen cuddling alongside them when they are in their beds/loungers as well.

This breed of rabbit is intelligent so training them to obey basic commands as well as potty training may be slightly easier than other rabbit breeds (however compared to cats and dogs, still challenging). With lots of patience, time and rewards, your rabbit will understand the connection.

Photo credit: DLHoward/Bigstock; Life on White/Bigstock; Willee Cole/Bigstock

Diana Faria

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So, let’s break it down…AgeA general rule of thumb for a healthy adult dog with no other factors considered is that your dog should engage in 1 hour of exercise daily. This can be one solid hour or broken into two or three sessions throughout the day.Like people, the amount of exercise needed will decrease as your dog ages and reaches their golden years. However, don’t take this as a sign that you can skip out on daily exercise. Your senior dog will nap more often, but exercise is still essential to prevent health issues like joint problems and heart disease.Young puppies are generally full of energy, but there can be too much of a good thing! During these early years, their bodies are still growing and developing. Excessive exercise can lead to bone and joint problems. A general rule of thumb for puppies is to allow them to engage in 5 minutes of exercise for each month of age. For example, a 3-month-old puppy could safely walk or exercise for 15 minutes.BreedWhether purchasing a puppy from a reputable breeder or adopting from your local rescue, one critical step in deciding on the right fit for your family is researching the dog breeds you are considering. This is a perfect example of why this is important!Some breeds, like herding dogs, were bred to have the high energy levels needed to keep up with their work in the fields. In a home setting, they need an outlet for all this energy. This means breeds like Australian Cattle Dogs, Border Collies, and Australian Shepherds need more exercise.On the flip side, some breeds are truly content lounging around. These canine couch potatoes are an excellent option for those who prefer a less active lifestyle. They still need exercise, but far less.LifestyleTake a moment to consider your daily routine - you may already be giving your dog more exercise than you realize! Active households that are often on the move and include their dogs in their plans may not need to worry about additional exercise. This includes those who enjoy hiking regularly, homes that enjoy participating in dog sports like agility, or those who spend a lot of time playing games like soccer outdoors (assuming the dog is allowed to join in on the fun).Alternatively, if you work long hours, requiring your dog to stay at home, or prefer spending your time relaxing and watching movies instead of participating in active hobbies, your dog may need more exercise to prevent health issues or behavioral problems.Health IssuesDoes your dog currently suffer from a disease or injury that could prevent them from exercising regularly? It’s possible that a dog could hit every one of the points listed above, calling for high energy, and still only need minimal physical activity. If you suspect there is a medical reason your dog’s activity should be limited, talk to your veterinarian. They can provide you with guidelines that suit their unique needs.Is Walking Enough Exercise for a Dog?For generations, it has been accepted that dogs need to go for a walk daily to meet their exercise needs. But is that really the best solution? The answer is: Maybe.Much like the amount of exercise needed varies from dog to dog, so does the best form of exercise to meet those needs. A walk could be a good option for dogs requiring less physical activity or needing something easier and less demanding. In addition to getting your dog up and moving, allowing them to sniff and explore adds a mental enrichment element to your walk.However, for many dogs, a walk simply won’t be enough. But even for high-energy dogs, a walk can be a great part of a larger physical and mental exercise plan. Does Playing Count as Exercise for Dogs?Yes! You can enjoy many fun games and activities with our dog that will get them moving and help keep them healthy. This is also an excellent way to include the whole family in your dog’s care. But not all play is considered equal.Simply allowing your dog to go outside and run around the yard or play with their toys on their own isn’t going to be enough. Instead, you must consider ways to motivate your dog to get moving. Try finding fun, interactive games you and your dog can enjoy together. As a bonus, playing with your dog encourages them to play more intensely and creates a great bonding opportunity.Can My Dog Over-Exercise?There are definitely concerns and complications that can arise as a result of excessive exercise. Much like a person can’t just decide to run a marathon one day after never training, your dog can suffer similar muscle pain and stiffness from exercising too much. If your dog has previously led a more calm, sedentary lifestyle, you will need to slowly increase their exercise levels.Pay attention to how they are feeling afterward. Some common signs of over-exercise include:Excessive panting and/or droolingSlowing down or lagging during exerciseSignificant wear on your dog’s paw padsVomiting or diarrhoeaGlazed eyesConfusion or loss of coordinationReluctance to get up, jump, or climb the stairs (stiffness)Whining when movingLongterm exhaustion after exerciseStrains, sprains, and muscle or joint injuriesIf you notice any of these signs, consider scaling back your dog’s activities slightly while monitoring to see how they are feeling.The risk increases when you are playing during the hottest days of summer. In these environments, the concern is tied less to too much exercise and more to the risk of suffering from heat stroke, heat exhaustion, or dehydration. During these warmer temperatures, ensure your dog takes frequent breaks and consider opportunities for less intense exercise.If you are unsure how much exercise your dog requires to live a happy, healthy life, ask your veterinarian at your next appointment. This will help you identify that sweet spot so their needs are met without risking pushing them too far.

How Do I Train My Dog to Wear a Harness?

Enjoying a leisurely walk or adventurous hike with your dog is an incredible way to spend quality time together and strengthen your bond. However, a dog that pulls and lacks leash manners can quickly turn this fun experience upside down.While collars have long been the standard for walking, many veterinarians and trainers are now sharing the benefits of using a harness. They are generally safer and more comfortable for dogs of all ages.However, not every dog will instantly take to wearing a harness the first time they are introduced.In this guide, I will walk you through the steps of introducing a harness to your dog, building positive associations, and setting both you and your dog up for long-term success. From choosing the right harness to mastering the process of putting it on, you’ll be prepared to hit the pavement with your canine companion in style and comfort.What Are the Benefits of Using a Harness?Let's take a step back before I walk you through training your dog to wear a harness. Why should you consider using a harness for your dog? What benefits does it offer over a typical collar?The most significant difference between a collar and a harness, and the reason why most veterinarians and dog trainers recommend harnesses, is the risk of injury. When your dog wears a collar, all pressure is put directly on their throat. If your dog pulls or tries to take off after a temptation (like a squirrel or to play with another dog), the pressure on their throat can cause significant damage. In the most severe cases, the impact of the collar on your dog’s throat can cause a life-threatening injury.Harnesses, on the other hand (or the other paw), disperse the pressure across your dog’s chest. Not only is this a more extensive area, but it’s better suited for handling this pressure without injuries (assuming the harness is properly fit to your dog).Depending on the activities you plan to enjoy with your dog, a harness could introduce additional features. This could include harnesses and support to assist a senior dog with mobility, a cooling harness for hot summer days, a harness with built-in backpacks to carry their gear while hiking, seatbelt attachments for safe car travel, and more. What Age Should Your Dog Start Wearing a Harness?Eight weeks old is the earliest age you should put a harness onto a young puppy. At this age, puppies are generally very open to new skills and experiences, making it the perfect time to introduce something new. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t train your dog to wear a harness if you are considering making this change later in life. Many adults and even senior dogs learn to wear and love their harnesses with a bit of time and a little patience.How Long Does It Take a Dog to Get Used to a Harness? The time it will take for your dog to get used to a harness will vary from dog to dog. Some pups will accept the harness quickly, comfortably wearing it and running around confidently right away. However, this isn’t true for every dog.If your dog is older and set in their ways or nervous when faced with new experiences, working through these steps may take a lot longer. Be patient and focus on creating a positive association with the harness by introducing praise and rewards. Allow your dog to set the pace, moving from one step to the next only when they are ready. This is the best way to set them up for long-term success (the ultimate goal).How to Train Your Dog to Wear a Harness: Step-By-StepBefore you start training, take a moment to consider what motivates your dog. While most dogs can be motivated with high-value treats, you may find your dog is better inspired to try something new with the offer of playtime with a favorite toy or even with simple praise and attention from you, their person. Knowing this is the secret to training success!Step One – Choosing a HarnessThe first thing to consider is the style of harness best suited for your dog. There are several factors to consider when shopping for the right harness. This includes your dog’s size, the weight of the harness, the adjustability, the material, how easy it is to clean, and any special features the harness may offer.You may even need to consider different harnesses for different situations. For example, you may prefer a classic nylon harness for walks around the block with your pup. However, if you are planning a challenging hike, your dog may be better served by a stronger and more supportive adventure harness with a handle to assist with any obstacles along the way.Finding the correct harness is essential, as your training will focus on making that specific harness a positive trigger for your dog. For the training process to be effective, this harness should be used.Step Two – Introduce the HarnessIn the early stages of training, you’re not going to put the harness on your dog. Instead, you want to give them a chance to check it out and realize it’s not something to be afraid of.To begin, place the harness on the ground in the comfort of your own home. Allow your dog to sniff at it and look it over. As they interact with the harness, occasionally offer praise or a treat. This will start to introduce the idea that the harness brings good things.When you see that they give the harness no more interest than a rug or your shoes (assuming they don’t chew your shoes), you can move on to the next step.

What is the Difference Between a Hamster and a Dwarf Hamster?

Hamsters are popular pets due to their small size and playful personalities. These pocket pets are an excellent choice for those who may be limited in space but still want to bring a companion into their home or apartment. With various breeds available, choosing between a Syrian or dwarf hamster can be overwhelming. Both offer unique characteristics, personalities, and care requirements. Let’s explore the key differences between these two adorable pocket pets to help you decide which is the perfect fit for your lifestyle and living space. Plus, we’ll share tips and tricks for giving your new hamster the best quality of life! Syrian Hamster vs. Dwarf Hamster: Key Differences Deciding between adopting a Syrian hamster or a dwarf hamster largely depends on personal preference. However, there are distinct characteristics that can help drive that decision. Let’s explore the physical differences between the two popular hamster breeds, including size, appearance, and temperament: Size and AppearanceThe most obvious difference between Syrian and dwarf hamsters is their appearance. Syrian hamsters (often simply called hamsters) are larger, growing up to 8 inches long. They have large, round eyes and are frequently described as looking like little teddy bears. This is also due to their most common coloring, a golden brown with white bellies. However, they can be found with white, black, or gray fur if you want a different color. Dwarf hamsters are smaller in size and often described as looking more like a mouse. Fully grown, they are usually 2 to 4 inches long. They are also available in a range of colors, but the most common are shades of grey-brown.Personality While the appearance differences may be more evident at first glance, the personality differences are often the reason why pet lovers prefer one over the other. Syrian hamsters are affectionate and loving pets, thriving off attention from their families. They are active, spending much of their time exploring their enclosure and playing with the available toys and features, but will also gladly spend time being held or handled (within reason). On the other hand, dwarf hamsters are considerably less affectionate. There are always exceptions to every rule, but most dwarf hamsters would be happiest spending their time playing independently. They have more energy than Syrian hamsters and higher exercise needs.

This Dog's Reaction to A Family Camping Trip Has Gone Viral

A heartwarming video sharing a dog’s hilarious reaction to a family camping trip recently took social media by storm.The viral TikTok clip posted by emilygrant946 shares the events of a recent family trip, camping in an adorable cabin. They believed the family dog would love the outdoor adventure, so they included him in the plans. However, it didn’t quite play out the way they anticipated…Finn, the family dog, is apparently more of a homebody.Set to a sound clip from Family Guy, the video revealed the pup hiding in the cabin and sitting at the stairs, asking to be allowed back indoors again. In both cases, he appears to avoid eye contact as if he’s judging the family’s vacation plans.

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