How to train rabbits: we tame them to the hands and the tray, teach tricks
Many people compare rabbits to dogs for being good at training. Indeed, if you are affectionate and pay attention to pets every day, you can make them completely tame. Animals will go to hands, and they will show tricks, and they will not shit all over the house. There is nothing super complicated in how to train rabbits. The main thing is to make your pet feel in you not only an “elder” and master, but also a friend. And by encouraging and praising him for each completed task, you can develop the habit of following commands without treats, but simply for praise.
Large flanders, gray and white giants, as well as breeds of decorative and dwarf rabbits are best trained.
Step one - taming the rabbit
First, give the eared a name and try to spend as much time with him as possible. Talk to the rabbit, but not loudly, affectionately, calling him to you. When the rabbit gets used to your voice, let your hands sniff before stroking the head. If the animal does not run away, you can try to take it in your arms without stopping stroking. To do this, try to be "on an equal footing" with him, sitting on the floor. Do everything smoothly, without sudden movements, so as not to frighten off. For each response, do not forget to reward a treat (a slice of carrot, apple or herbs).
If the pet is tired and went to bed, do not insist on communication - continue tomorrow. The rabbit must understand that your presence does not threaten him.
How to train rabbits - learning to do tricks
When the animals cease to be afraid of you and will willingly walk into your arms, you can proceed to more difficult lessons. For example, teach them such simple exercises:
- Rack. Pick up the treat and lift it above the animal's head. When he starts reaching for the treat, give him a bite. Then, substitute your second hand so that the eared one stands on it with paws, and raise the treat even higher. After the rabbit is in the rack, give the remaining gift. Over time, he will do so without a tasty bait.
- Football. Hide a fragrant treat, such as a sprig of parsley, behind the ball. Gently push the rabbit towards the ball. When he hears a smell, a natural reflex will kick in. The pet will push the ball with its muzzle to get to the treat.
- Jumping over an obstacle. Place a low obstacle in front of the animal (you can make two supports and a lifting bar). Put on the leash, and slowly bring the rabbit, then make it take a treat by stepping over the obstacle. Raise the height each time, forcing him to jump.
When training rabbits, for each exercise you need to choose a command (stand, up, run, spin, jump). Requirements should be voiced and also evaluated by calling the rabbit by name. For example, "well done, Timka" or "not so, Snowball."
Teaching rabbits to be clean and litter
It is necessary to acquaint your pet with the toilet and tell him where to go for this purpose before you release him from the cage. An unaccustomed pet will do this during walks around the house, and in the most unexpected places.
You can avoid unpleasant surprises if:
- observe the rabbit and find out which part cells he chose himself for the setting;
- put a tray with filler in this place;
- put some litter-soiled litter in the toilet so the rabbit knows what the box is for.