Belgian hares are rabbits originating from Belgium and bred to resemble hares.
The Belgian hare is a type of domesticated rabbit with a unique appearance. These rabbits are so named because they originate from Belgium and were bred to resemble hares. They are elegant and strong, with long brittle bones, long ears, and long feet. The slender, fine-boned appearance of the Belgian hare has earned it the nickname “the fantasy racehorse rabbit.”
color range
The classic Belgian hare is red, and this is the only color recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), one of the world’s leading organizations of rabbit breeders. Belgian hares also come in black, black, and tan, however, and there are some that are white with ruby eyes. All colors are considered attractive, although they may not be allowed at some rabbit shows.
suitability as pets
Belgian hares are also considered excellent pets. They are said to have a good disposition, although some can be a bit skittish. The Belgian hare is a fairly large rabbit, sometimes exceeding 9 pounds (4.1 kg), requiring quite a bit of space. Additionally, the Belgian Hare has a very fast metabolism and requires more food than a pet owner would expect for a rabbit of its size.
First created during the 1800s.
The first Belgian hares were bred in Belgium during the 19th century and brought to England in 1874. Fourteen years later, they made their way to the United States, where they became immensely popular at rabbit shows. Soon Belgian hare clubs sprang up across the country, thousands were created, and some were sold for as much as $1,000, an exorbitant amount of money at the time. However, this popularity was short-lived and waned during the 1920s, and by the early 21st century, the Belgian Hare is one of the rarest rabbit breeds.
traits and needs
Belgian Hares are said to be among the most intelligent rabbits. They have special feeding needs and require a significant amount of exercise. They are more fragile than some other rabbit breeds due to their delicate bones, so anyone considering a Belgian Hare for show or as a pet should keep this in mind. Belgian hare breeders have a reputation for being dedicated to the breed.