Responsible Rabbit Breeding – Part 1 of a 20-part series

Should You Become a Rabbit Breeder?

Breeding bunnies is a great joy in my life.  I invite those who have a great interest in breeding rabbits, the time, and the commitment to follow through with it to join me in this wonderful hobby. 

But I would really like to discourage anyone considering breeding non-pedigreed bunnies, breeding just to make bunnies for Easter gifts, breeding to make money, or breeding bunnies of different breeds together. 

There’s no real profit in pet bunnies. There’s a very small market for mixed breed rabbits.  And too many Easter gifts are forgotten by Memorial Day. 

Make sure that you have a market or ethical use for your rabbits before you produce them.

Breeding rabbits also means dealing with death on a regular basis.  Does have dead babies on a regular basis.  Many babies that are born alive do not make it to adulthood.  If you do not have a stomach for deformity, breeding would not be a good idea for you.  If you feel that you would mourn excessively over each death, it might not be a good idea either.

Rabbits can get syphilis and require injections.  If you think you could never give a shot, breeding rabbits might not suit you.

Does can retain kits, get infections, die during delivery, or fail to get pregnant at all.  Babies can get stuck in the birth canal.  Mothers may have too much milk, too little milk, or no milk at all.  The problems you will encounter are never ending. 

But if none of this discouraged you, then read on.

Which rabbits should you breed together?