Rabbit Breeds – Lifespans and temperaments

Most people are amazed by the idea of having a rabbit as a pet. As a pet owner, you should know almost everything about your pet. You should have an idea of things like the temperaments, breeding patterns, and the life expectancy of these animals. The average life span of a rabbit spans between 7 – 12 years. Just like with human beings, some breeds live longer than others. The life expectancy of a rabbit also depends on things like availability of food, diseases, diet, and the environment they live in.

Classification of rabbits

Wild rabbit

These types of rabbits do not thrive at home. In its natural setting, the average lifespan is considered to be close to 6 years provided predators do not interfere with its existence. Moreover, considering that these rabbits have to compete for food and shelter, you do not expect them to live as long as pet rabbits.

Pet rabbits

You probably by now understand why pet rabbits live longer than those that live in the wilderness. In case you missed, it primarily because of the favorable conditions at home, adequate amounts of food, no predators, and minimal competition for food. However, the breed also plays a huge role in how long a rabbit lives. Here is a closer look at some common breeds and their expected lifespan.

Dwarf rabbits

Different species of rabbits are classified as dwarfs. Dwarf rabbits are the most preferred pet rabbits. These type of rabbits have long lifespans with most of them living for more than eight years. They are also the most intelligent, which makes them easy to train and responsive to basic commands.

Giant rabbits

Giant rabbits are known for their short lifespan. Most of them do not grow to be as old as dwarf rabbits. Statistics have it that a breed like the Checkered Giant Rabbit hardly celebrates its sixth birthday. Naturally, they often seem dull and less cheerful.

Lop eared rabbits

Lop eared rabbits make wonderful pets. They are believed to have better temperaments that the dwarf breed. Smaller breeds have a similar lifespan like dwarf rabbits with larger ones living an average of 6 years. You should not be surprised to see a lop eared rabbit living for ten years either.

Lionhead rabbits

Lionhead rabbits have an average lifespan of 8 years. They are among the most friendly rabbit breeds, which makes them good pets for kids.…