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Learn how to identify a reputable breeder
Getting a bunny with small adoption fees might look like a good deal at first, but is it really a good deal?
Most of the time when people sell bunnies with small adoption fees they are in the business for the wrong reasons. When it comes to selecting bunnies for breeding purposes or getting started in the business, it takes the breeders large amounts of money to get good quality stock. Moreover selecting rabbits with a good temperament and the best pet quality is not a one-time deal. We as breeders have to select for the best temperament from the doe’s lines and the buck’s line and this involves money, time, and pedigree. This is why prices will be a little higher when buying from reputable breeders.
What happens when you buy from a breeder that's selling their bunnies for a low price? This means that they're looking or breeding their bunnies for any behaviors or good qualities. They only care about the cash that the bunnies will bring them. Some other breeders might be what we call "situational breeders", meaning they had bunnies as pets and they started breeding to get some extra cash. So next time you see a BOGO on bunnies think twice if it is a good deal. For example, 1 bunny for $25 or 2 bunnies for $40. This is not a good deal if you really want a good-quality pet bunny.
American Dwarfs, Small Dwarf, or Dwarf are not recognized breeds by the American Rabbit Breeders Association. Only Netherland Dwarfs are recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association. Breeds that carry the dwarf gene can be found in our Dwarf Gene Page. Only Netherland Dwarfs have the name Dwarf on them and carry the dwarf gene.
Good breeders are not in the business just to make money; they don't sell their rabbits to the first person who shows up with cash in hand. A good breeder is one who is personally involved in each and every sale. They will never sell through a pet store or any other third party that doesn't allow them to meet the prospective family and make sure it's a good match for the rabbit.
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Too often, unsuspecting consumers buy animals from a so-called breeder (a person who breeds pets to make a little money on the side). They're not knowledgeable about genetics and good breeding practices, and the result is rabbits with health or temperament problems that may not be discovered until years later.
Recommendations can point you toward a good breeder
You can find reputable breeders by asking for referrals from your veterinarian or trusted friends,
by contacting local breed clubs, or by visiting rabbit shows.
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Always visit the breeder before buying
Don't buy a rabbit without personally visiting where he or she was born and raised. Take the time now to find the right breeder and you'll thank yourself for the rest of your rabbit's life. While you're visiting, look for these basics:
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The rabbits should appear happy and healthy.
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The breeder's home and the rabbits' area should be clean, well-maintained, and well-lit.
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The breeder should have a strong relationship with a local veterinarian and should provide records and references about his rabbits' care.
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The breeder should be able to explain common genetic problems.
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The breeder should be able to provide references from other families who have purchased rabbits.
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The breeder should be willing to serve as a resource and answer questions for the rest of the rabbit's life. (This is a must).
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The breeder should be involved with local, state, or national breed clubs.
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The breeder should provide a written contract with a health guarantee and encourage you to read and understand the contract fully before signing.
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The breeder should be just as tough on you as you are with them. They should ask you questions about your experiences with other rabbits and other pets and ask for a veterinary reference.