So You Want to Show Rabbits – How to Buy a Great Show Bunny
Many rabbit lovers decide at some point they would like to show rabbits. You certainly do not make a great deal of money in this pursuit but it is a lot of fun and nice way to interact with other rabbit owners. The standards for a show rabbit are quite high, so those new to the rabbit show world might wonder where they can buy a bunny who will maybe grow up to be a ribbon winner. Here are a few tips that should help you find a suitable show rabbit;
Start Slowly-One Breed at a Time – There are many different breeds that are accepted by ARBA for showing. Almost all bunnies are cute to look at but some are easier to show than others. Trying to raise and show too many different breeds at once makes it hard to have success at the judging table with any of them. The ABRA book “The Standard of Perfection” is used by almost all rabbit show judges to rank rabbits and award prizes so having a copy can be almost invaluable when purchasing a bunny for showing purposes. The publication is available at the ARBA website as well as in many pet stores.
The Best Show Rabbits for Sale are found..at Shows – A rabbit show is the best place to find a potential show winning bunny for sale. Admission to these shows is usually free and many of the exhibitors will have stock for sale. Most rabbit sellers will be happy to answer your questions and will likely be very helpful. Do not expect them to sell you a “flawless” rabbit however, they are show people after all, and just as interested as you in winning. There are rabbit flaws that are considered very minor however and do not affect a bunny’s show potential. Use your “The Standard of Perfection” to help you pick a great bunny from the bunch. Make sure you tell the merchant that you want a rabbit to show or you may end up with breeding stock instead.
How Much Does a Show Rabbit Cost – The price of a good show rabbit will vary from breed to breed and in many cases by geographical location. The prices at national or breed specific shows can sometimes be double those found at smaller local shows. A “top of the line” specimen of a popular breed may cost as much as $100, but most go for between $20 and $50. A high price is no guarantee of quality however, so let your new knowledge and instincts be your guide, not the bunny’s “sticker price”.
I just gottwo bunnies for easter from my parents amnd cant tell the breed.I hae wanted show bunnies for a long time but don’t know how to get started and if the are pure breeds.I aslo mwant to breed but we can’t tell how old they are?one is black and white the other white and kind of a tan color+are the babies above for sale(the white with the brown line down the back)