People often get the mistaken impression that dogs and rabbits can't be friends, a bit like dogs and cats, but both of these myths are, in fact, to be dispelled. This article is about the possible friendship between dog and rabbit.
Steps
Step 1. Find a neutral area for them to meet
It must be a place that neither of them can consider as "their own". The bathroom, kitchen, garage or bedroom can be suitable places.
Step 2. Place the rabbit in a cage, box or pet carrier
Let him get used to it and then call the dog.
Step 3. Check how they both react
If the rabbit moves away or hides, it speaks softly, stroking both of them; it is very important to give both of you the same attention at this time. If they ignore each other or sniff through bars, then that's a good sign.
You can repeat this for a couple of days, especially if both animals appear nervous and excited. You judge when it seems like the right time to proceed. If you are unsure, open the cage or box the rabbit is in slightly and let the dog insert its nose. Decide if the time is right based on the reaction of both animals
Step 4. Get an assistant
Ask him to keep one of the two animals. It is best for each to keep the animal they have the closest bond with.
Step 5. Have the two animals approach slowly
If either of them gets too excited, pull them back and try to calm them down. Make it seem like you're not praising them. Praise and reward them without delay only if they are calm and friendly.
Repeat steps 5 and 6 until you think the two animals have become accustomed to each other's presence. Again, use your judgment to decide if they are ready
Step 6. Put your dog on a leash and let the rabbit jump around him
If the dog wishes, let him follow. If the dog seems aggressive to you, stop him, tell him to sit up and praise him at this point. If he stays calm, praise him again. Repeat for a few days until both are calm.
Step 7. Ask your assistant to hold the dog or rabbit and then put the dog back on the leash
Allow the dog to approach the rabbit directly and let them sniff each other. If both remain calm, praise and reward them. Repeat for a few days until both are calm.
Step 8. Ask your assistant to hold the dog or rabbit again and approach them as in the previous step
When both are calm, let them go, but hold them lightly with your hands so that you can intervene in case one of them makes a sudden snap.
If both are calm, let them completely free, and stay close in case something goes wrong. This operation must be short
Step 9. Repeat the exercise frequently
Keep repeating the previous step a couple of times a day for about a week, increasing the duration each time.
When both of you are calm and friendly to each other, then you are done. However, it's still not a good idea to leave them alone together
Advice
- If one of the two animals goes away for a while (for example to stay at the vet), it is best to repeat the above steps for safety.
- Pay more attention to some breeds as they may have been trained to hunt rabbits or large rodents.
