Belgian Hare

The Belgian Hare is a "fancy" breed of domestic rabbit, which means it is kept mainly for exhibition rather than for meat, fur or fibre. It has been selectively bred to look like the wild European hare, but it is a rabbit, not a true hare.

Belgian Hares usually weigh 6-9 pounds (2.7-4.1 kg). They are known for a slender, wiry frame and long, powerful legs. The body is long and fine with a muscular flank and a distinctly arched back, and the head is long. The tail is straight and carried in line with the backbone.

The original Rufus variety is deep red, a rich chestnut with black ticking. The Tan variety has black, blue, chocolate or lilac on the top and sides with a reddish-tan belly. Solid black Belgian Hares also exist.

The precursors of the Belgian Hare were created in Belgium in the early 18th century by crossing early domestic rabbits with the wild European rabbit. The aim was a practical meat rabbit for small livestock keepers.

These rabbits were first imported to England in 1874, where they were named the "Belgian Hare". English breeders made them more spirited and lithe. By 1877 they were being shown in America, and the breed quickly became popular.

The "Belgian Hare boom" peaked around 1898. One English shipping firm reported conveying over 6,000 Belgian Hares to the United States in 1900. Novice breeders could not turn the lanky rabbit into a production meat breed, and the flooded market went bust by 1902.

The breed is credited with launching the domestic rabbit industry and popularising rabbit shows in the United States. Today it still has devoted followers in the UK and US, and The Livestock Conservancy lists it as "threatened" in the US.

The Belgian Hare is one of the most intelligent and energetic rabbit breeds, and can be trained to respond to the sound of its name. Its active personality has earned it the nickname "the poor man's racehorse".

It is alert and can very easily be startled by sudden noise or movement. It is known to respond well to handling, particularly when trained from an early age.

Because of its size and speed, it may not be the best match for small children, as it could cause injury. It has a very high metabolic rate, so it may eat more, and more consistently, than other breeds, though its dietary needs are not otherwise very different.

What it does say is that the Belgian Hare has a very high metabolic rate, and that it differs from most other domestic rabbits in its housing needs and may demand more attention and care.

This is general awareness only, not veterinary advice. Always consult a vet about your pet's health.

Is a Belgian Hare a hare or a rabbit?

It is a domestic rabbit. It has been bred to look like the wild European hare, but it is not a true hare.

How big does a Belgian Hare get?

They average 6-9 pounds (2.7-4.1 kg) and have a slender, wiry frame with long, powerful legs.

Is a Belgian Hare a good pet for children?

It may not be the best choice for small children. Its large size and speed could cause injury, and it is easily startled by sudden noise or movement.

Are Belgian Hares intelligent?

Yes, they are considered one of the most intelligent and energetic rabbit breeds, and can be trained to respond to their name.

What colours do Belgian Hares come in?

The British Rabbit Council recognises Rufus, Tan and solid black. Tan can be black, blue, chocolate or lilac on top with a reddish-tan belly.

The Belgian Hare is nicknamed "the poor man's racehorse".

In 1900, one English shipping firm reported conveying over 6,000 Belgian Hares safely to the United States.

The American Belgian Hare Club received its specialty club charter in July 1972 and continues today.

The breed is credited with launching the domestic rabbit industry and popularising rabbit shows in the United States.