How to Bond with Your Rabbit

3-3-3 Rule

The 3-3-3 rule is crucial to understanding when bonding with a rabbit. Rabbits aren't outwardly affectionate like most dogs, and because they are prey animals, they will be very cautious. The 3-3-3 rule helps new rabbit owners form realistic goals when bonding with their pet. 

So what is the 3-3-3 rule?

Well, it starts with the first three days you have your pet. The rabbit will need these three days to adjust and hide, and it is important to leave them alone for the most part. 

Next, you have the next three weeks. After these three weeks, you should see your rabbit's true personality emerge, and it will open up to you more. 

By three months, your rabbit should be completely comfortable and should be bonded with you. However, some skittish breeds, like dwarf rabbits, may take longer. 

Patience is the key!

Don't Be a Predator

Obviously, you're not trying to hunt your rabbit, but your rabbit doesn't know that! They are naturally skittish because of their prey instincts. One way it may seem like you are a predator to your rabbit is by chasing. 

New rabbit owners mostly assume that their rabbit will love to be held and adore being cuddled. Unfortunately, this is not reality. It completely depends on the breed of your rabbit and its personality. 

While some rabbits actually love being pet and hanging out with their owner, others prefer to have their own space. If you want a more cuddly, affectionate rabbit, try looking at the Holland Lop page. These rabbits are naturally more docile and friendly. 

That being said, back to our topic, don't chase your rabbit! This is one of the most terrifying things to a rabbit because it's exactly like being hunted. They don't know that you have good intentions - all they see is a predator trying to catch them. 

So how do you get a rabbit to trust you?

Start by sitting or lying down. I highly recommend keeping your rabbit in a pen or letting it free-roam, so it has plenty of space to spend time with you and get exercise. The higher up you are to a new rabbit, the scarier you'll be. When you're bonded with your rabbit and have earned their trust, they usually won't care when you stand and walk around. But at first, sitting and lying down are the way to begin the bonding process.

Try to move slowly, not suddenly. A new, scared rabbit will be terrified of sudden movements and run away. Don't try to force your rabbit to bond with you - I promise they will open up eventually! Talk in a soft, calm voice and gently pet the rabbit on its back or behind its ears. If it runs away, don't keep petting it.