LION-HEADED DWARF RABBIT

Lion-headed rabbit (another name - the lion's head) - a relatively new breed of dwarf rabbits are known for their unusual appearance - the presence of a kind of mane around the head and neck. As expected from these lions, the rest of the body they covered with hair of medium length.

Such an original mixed scalp lion-headed creatures owe their short-haired and long-haired ancestors.
 

Having the lion-headed rabbit recently in Belgium as a result of attempts to bring breeders longhaired toy breeds by crossing miniature fox furry animals with Dutch dwarfs. Their experiments led to a genetic mutation that causes animals the appearance of long hair around the head and upper body. This gene is called "gene mane." Homeland decorative lion-headed rabbit is considered to Belgium, but the main impetus to the development of the breed was in the United States in the late 1990s., Where its standards have been described and where it still enjoys great popularity among fans of small animals. In 2002 the breed was recognized by the British Council breeders. Because of its sweet appearance and calm nature today, "eared lions" are popular in many countries around the world.

Representatives of the lion-headed dwarf rabbit breeds - small animals with a compact round the body, distinct chest, shoulders and hips. Weight adults should not exceed 1.7 kg, the young animals up to 6 months - 1.2 kg and the minimum weight is equal to 700 grams. Optimal Weight rabbits - about 1.4 kg.Head high animals has a rounded shape with a well-developed muzzle. Ears set high, rather short, thick, rounded at the ends. Eyes wide set, bright and expressive color corresponds to the color. Tight legs are of medium length.

Of course, the main pride and hallmark of the lion-headed rabbit - the bulk of their luxurious mane, at least 5 cm in length, forming a complete circle around the head, dropping to his chest and extending V-shaped wedge on the back of the neck with a sharp transition to the back. Wool may be present between the ears, creating a kind of woolen hat. On other parts of the body is replaced by a halo of fluffy thick fur of medium length. Cheeks and chest animals may have longer hair. Fur animals have soft, dense, with a healthy shine. Color rabbits lion's head can be quite varied - according to the official registration there are about 60 variations. The main and perhaps the most popular among them - black, fawn, white, Marder, agoutis, Siam, Thuringian, orange. Eye color must match the description of a specific color.

The nature of the lion-headed rabbit differs kindness and complaisance. In most cases, they can be called a gentle and well-mannered pet. The animals of this breed have an extraordinary mind and can even learn how to implement some of the commands - to respond to the call, calls the game and meal.They will be ideal pets for both adults and children. However, because of their intelligence and activity they require a lot of attention, but also need more care for their thick lion's mane.

The average life expectancy of ornamental rabbits lions is about 8 years, but this figure is highly dependent on the conditions and the quality of care they receive throughout life and can reach 11 years.

Care of the lion-headed rabbit requires extra effort, but generally does not cause much difficulty. The highest amount of time in the implementation of daily routines takes comb mane pet that will prevent entanglement and ingestion beast wool. Bathing for eared lions - a lot of stress and the risk of hypothermia quickly, so completely immerse them in water can only be a last resort. To maintain the purity is acceptable wet cleaning with a small amount of water, use of wet baby wipes or a special agent for dry cleaning rabbits.

The future owners of ornamental rabbits of this breed, it is important to follow a few rules of conduct in order to avoid aggravating a stressful situation for newcomer gentle pet. Once a small lump of wool will be in the house, do not just take him in my arms, to issue loud sounds and make sudden movements. It should give him time to get used to a new place. Rabbit cage is better to choose large to small animal had the opportunity to move freely, it fit drinkers, feeders and a house to sleep. Optimal size - 100x80x70 cm. It is undesirable too often disturb pet, intruding into its territory. Cage is best positioned in the area where people often, and its near impossible to put the batteries in the draft, as well as in places where direct sunlight. The most comfortable temperature for the double-crested lion - up to + 23 ° C. No matter how wonderful was not a cage, the rabbit does not have to spend time in it constantly.He needs regular paddock, in the extreme case - a walk around the apartment.

Representatives of the lion-headed breed rabbits are often very cleanly and quickly become accustomed to the tray. Before the pupil learns to use the toilet in a special place, let him walk around the house should not be one. In the case of the proper use of animal tray should be commended and reward treat.You should know that these animals are very rapidly react to sharp handling, cries and other negative manifestations. Trying to get him to obey by the rude attitude just do not succeed and only worsen the situation.

Power rabbits lion's head must include all of the standard for their food grain, hay, branches of mountain ash, herbs (dandelion, lupine, alfalfa, plantain), vegetables (carrots, cabbage, a little beet, cauliflower, squash) and fruits ( apple, pear). Vitamin and mineral supplements are needed small animal in the winter, when the amount of natural food decreases.

In general, the lion-headed rabbit quite unpretentious, beautiful, gentle and good-natured animals that become excellent pets in any family.

The cost of the lion-headed rabbits depending on the class of the animal ranges from 1000-5000 rubles.