Q&A for How to Teach Your Rabbit to Come when Called

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  • Question
    How do you teach your rabbit to jump?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Start with a low barrier, such as a stick resting on the ground. Use a treat to lure the rabbit over. As they jump, say a cue word such as "Jump," and gradually increase the height of the hurdle.
  • Question
    Do rabbits know their names?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    A rabbit can be taught to recognize their name. Use reward-based training methods. Tempt the rabbit close with a treat and say their name as they move toward you. Then give the reward.
  • Question
    How do you get your rabbit to like you?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    This is a matter of building trust. Less is more with rabbits, so spend time sitting near them talking quietly. Offer some tasty treats and never force the rabbit to do something they are uncomfortable with.
  • Question
    Where does a bunny like to be petted?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Rabbits prefer to be stroked along their back. Move your hand towards their spine from their side, rather than over their head.
  • Question
    What's the point of clicker training?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Clicker training is especially useful for rabbits. Teaching them to associate the click with a treat is one of the fastest ways to train a rabbit.
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