To know a rabbit's history we can travel back in time and go back 55 million years ago when a rabbit-like creature called Gomphos elkema existed. It was surprisingly analogous to our modern rabbits and probably hopped around on its extended hind limbs. Rabbit's earliest relationship with humans was as a fur-and-food commodity. Now let's jump ahead in time to the domestication of this adorable species. The domestic rabbit, and any of the several breeds and varieties, has descended from the European rabbit that was simply tamed over time. People have been keeping rabbits as pets since the 18th century. Rabbits are especially popular in the United States during the Easter season, due to their association with the holiday. British poet William Cowper wrote eloquently of his love and appreciation for these creatures as companion animals. Rabbits can indeed make wonderful pets-for the right people. Pet owners frequently categorize themselves in terms of their animals-"I'm a dog person" or "I'm a cat person." But what is exactly a "rabbit person"? A rabbit person is someone who enjoys observing as much as handling, and who does not get overly upset at a rabbit's natural tendencies, such as chewing and digging.

Rabbits have notably distinctive personalities. They can be playful and silly as puppies or kittens, independent and fascinating as mousers, or loyal and openly affectionate as dogs. Domestic rabbits are, in their own way, every bit as smart as cats and dogs and can quickly learn to respond to their names and are adroit at getting over, under, around and through barriers intended to restrict them. Some owners seem almost proud of their rabbits' ability to negotiate household obstacles.

After decades of being categorized as "pocket pets", rabbits are coming into their own as companions comparable to dogs, cats and birds.A rabbit's natural schedule is convenient for working people. Neither diurnal nor nocturnal, rabbits are crepuscular and make wonderful indoor pets. They can have quite affectionate personalities - and a strong bond between rabbit and owner can be established.

Rabbits are wonderful household companions. A rabbit's behaviour is triggered by a need to defend itself. This relates to their wild ancestors, who were easily startled and showed fear. A rabbit's body language and posture are determining factors for understanding their temperament. Like humans, rabbits have individual and unique personas.

Rabbits are relatively inexpensive to keep when compared to larger animals, such as dogs, although their care and maintenance can still be pretty costly. Pet rabbits can be kept outdoors or indoors. Accommodations can range from an outdoor hutch to an indoor cage or pen to a free run of the home.

Hobbylancer and You

At Hobbylancer, get in touch with other rabbit owners and we will help you choose your little pet friend. You can interact with other owners and organize shows which have recently grown popular and have been shown to improve the vigor and physical behavior of each breed through competitive selection. Learn ways to improve your bond and grow as a person and owner at Hobbylancer!