Roscoe n Stella

The post Bull Daniff Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care & More by Chantelle Fowler appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Bull Daniffs are a hybrid dog breed that results from pairing a Bullmastiff with a Great Dane. Some might think mixing these two giant parent breeds would result in a fearless and aggressive dog, but this couldn’t be further from the truth (provided the dog is properly socialized, of course!). The Bull Daniff is a gentle giant who forms tight bonds with their humans. Their size and imposing appearance make them great protectors, but they’d much rather love on you than fight.

Breed Overview

The Bull Daniff is an interesting combination of both parent breeds. They offer the gentle, playful, and affectionate disposition of the Great Dane and the calm, protective, and loyal nature of the Bullmastiff. Both parent breeds were born and bred as working dogs, but the Bull Daniff is happy to play the role of “gentle giant” and family dog.

Bull Daniff Puppies

The Bull Daniff puppy can be pretty rambunctious as they learn to navigate the world around them. They will benefit from training classes beginning at a young age. When exposed to proper training and socialization, these pups will grow to be calm and well-mannered adults. You can read more about training this breed in the Training section below.

We were able to find a few Bull Daniff breeders online, so this might actually be an easier hybrid breed to find than some of the other large designer dogs. If you choose to buy from a breeder versus a rescue or shelter, you must do your due diligence to ensure they are breeding responsibly.

Bull Daniff Breed Origin & History

Not much is known about the origin or history of the Bull Daniff. What we do know is that it is a relatively new crossbreed believed to have originated somewhere in North America during the late 20th century.

What’s clearer, however, is the origin of the parent breeds.

Bullmastiffs are English mastiff-type dogs that were developed in the nineteenth century. Their imposing stature helped them find work as guard dogs.

Great Danes are a German breed of mastiff-sighthounds initially bred to hunt boar and protect their owners’ estates.

Image Credit: Left- Jen Dunham, Shutterstock | Right – anetapics, Shutterstock

Temperament & Intelligence of the Bull Daniff

Don’t let the imposing size of the Bull Daniff put you off; these pups are incredibly loyal, happy-go-lucky, and courageous. They bond very closely with their humans and thrive in households where they can always be near their favorite people. These dogs are incredibly loyal and prefer to keep you in their sight at all times. Bull Daniffs may be giant dogs, but they don’t seem to know, understand, or care. If given the opportunity, they’ll happily fill the role of lapdog.

Because they bond so tightly and form such strong attachments with their humans, these dogs can be prone to separation anxiety. For this reason, they’re best suited for households where someone will be around almost all the time to keep them company. A dog this size with severe separation anxiety can inflict some real damage to your home.

These big softies are faithful companions, but they can sometimes come off as shy or reserved. Training and socialization should begin when they’re puppies to ensure they become comfortable around new people and other pets.

Are These Dogs Good for Families?

Bull Daniffs’ imposing stature and gentle, affectionate nature make them great family dogs. Their size is excellent for intimidating potential intruders, but their loyal, loving, and social disposition truly makes them gentle giants.

However, this breed’s laidback attitude is likely to shift if a stranger enters the picture. These pups can be very wary of people outside of their immediate family. They won’t be afraid to alert you of strangers approaching, making them fantastic guard dogs.

The sheer size of the Bull Daniff may make them inappropriate for homes with smaller children, however. Even the sweetest and most gentle dog can inflict severe damage on young kids who don’t know how to give these pups space.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

Bull Daniffs may get along well with other household pets, but this isn’t always the case. Both parent breeds have very strong prey drives, which can make living alongside smaller dogs, cats, and pocket pets a challenge. However, Bull Daniffs raised alongside other pets may be able to adapt better to living in a multi-pet and multi-species household.

Male Bullmastiffs and Great Danes can sometimes be aggressive with dogs of the same sex, so if you decide to bring another dog into the home, you may want to opt for dogs of different genders.

Things to Know When Owning a Bull Daniff:

Food & Diet Requirements

Like all dogs, Bull Daniffs do best when fed high-quality dog food appropriate for their life stage. We recommend considering a large-breed specific dog food as these are formulated with the right balance of minerals and vitamins big dogs need to thrive.

Owners should feed large-breed specific puppy food until their dog is around 12 to 18 months. Diets labeled for “all life stages” are not appropriate for puppies this size, as Bull Daniffs will grow at a much different rate than other sized breeds.

It’s essential to feed a Bull Daniff appropriately to reduce the risk of developing a potentially life-threatening condition known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). To protect your pup, we recommend feeding them two smaller meals a day versus one large meal. Don’t allow your dog to exercise one to two hours after eating, and skip out on the elevated food bowls, which can increase the likelihood of your pup developing GDV.

As for how much to feed your Bull Daniff, we recommend speaking to your veterinarian. They will take your dog’s size, age, and lifestyle into account when providing you with customized feeding recommendations. Overfeeding should be avoided at all costs as these pups are already prone to degenerative joint diseases, which excess weight can exacerbate.

Exercise

The Bull Daniff may not require as much physical activity as you might think, though their exact exercise needs can vary depending on which parent they take after more.

Bullmastiffs need only around 30 to 50 minutes of exercise daily to maintain their physique and to promote their mental well-being. They’re happy with a moderate walk, though they can also excel at activities like agility, rally, and tracking.

Great Danes have a bit more energy, however, and are happiest with around two hours of activity. They’re happy tagging along for two or three brisk daily walks. Many Great Danes enjoy activities like obedience, tracking, weight pulls, and flyball.

Due to their large size, these dogs don’t make the best running buddies. They can be prone to developing joint issues and muscle strain, so it’s best to stick with lower-impact activities.

Training

Early training and socialization are critical for Bull Daniff puppies. These dogs are large and powerful, so the sooner you can get started with obedience training, the better.

Both parent breeds are known for being strong-willed, which can make training a challenge for new or inexperienced dog owners. However, these are brilliant dogs that can learn quickly under the right circumstances. The Bull Daniff responds well to firm and consistent training, but it doesn’t hurt to have some extra yummy high-value treats on hand to reward a job well done.

Grooming

Grooming a Bull Daniff shouldn’t be too time-consuming or costly. These dogs don’t shed excessively, but seasonal sheds should be expected. Weekly brushing can reduce how much hair is floating around your space. Baths should only be given on an as-needed basis when they get dirty, making sure to use a dog-friendly shampoo. Professional grooming is generally not necessary for this breed as their short fur isn’t prone to matting.

As with any other dog breed, regular nail trims are necessary to keep their nails healthy and prevent injuries if the nails break or split. Cleaning out their ears with an ear cleanser once a week can help keep their ears dry and prevent infections.

Health and Conditions

The Bull Daniff may inherit some of the health conditions their parent breeds are particularly prone to.

Bullmastiffs are prone to heart conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and subaortic valvular stenosis (SAS). DCM is a heart disease that develops when the heart gets dilated and cannot function as necessary, while SAS occurs when fibrous tissues form in the heart, obstructing blood flow. They can also develop eye conditions like entropion or progressive retinal atrophy and joint conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia.

Great Danes are prone to several spinal cord conditions. Wobbler syndrome, a disease that causes a wobbly gait and neck pain, is often seen in this breed. They can also develop degenerative myelopathy, a spinal condition resulting in low back pain and weakness. The Great Danes’ tail length and general happy disposition can put them at risk for an adorably named condition known as happy tail syndrome. Dogs with this condition can experience repeat injuries to their tip due to wagging.

As a deep-chested breed, Bull Daniffs may be at risk of developing bloat and gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). GDV is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach fills with gas or fluid, twists upon itself, and cuts off blood circulation to organs.

Male vs Female

As with most dog breeds, the most significant difference between male and female Bull Daniffs is their size. Males typically weigh between 110 and 175 pounds, compared to a female’s 100 to 140-pound frame. Height-wise, males can measure between 25 and 32 inches tall, while females are slightly shorter at 24 to 30 inches. The Bull Daniff’s final size will depend upon which parent they favor. Great Danes are taller and heavier than their Bullmastiff counterparts.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Bull Daniff

1. Bull Daniffs can be drool machines.

The Bull Daniff’s Bullmastiff parent is known for drooling, so drool clean-ups from your floor and furniture will become part of your regular cleaning routine.

2. Bull Daniffs can thrive in apartments.

While we don’t often recommend extra-large dog breeds for apartments, the Bull Daniff’s laid-back attitude actually makes them perfect for apartment life. These pups are peaceful and relatively low-energy, making them pretty quiet neighbors.

3. Bull Daniffs are relatively quiet dogs.

Bull Daniffs aren’t known for barking often. Their parent breeds were not trained to bark or bite, so they typically only bark when they feel they need to alert their owners to incoming intruders or threats. Their barks are, therefore, purposeful and not a frequent occurrence, further adding to their suitability as apartment dogs. However, while they’re not frequent barkers, they certainly are loud barkers. Their bark is deep, intimidating, and rumbly.

Final Thoughts

The Bull Daniff is an extra-large dog whose size and stature make them look much more imposing than they are. Truthfully, this hybrid is exceptionally loyal, affectionate, and friendly, making them perfectly suitable for family life.

Their size may make them less than ideal for homes with particularly young children. Though they are sweet and loving, their size means they can inflict real damage, even inadvertently. However, this massive size and intimidating appearance, coupled with their parents’ history as working dogs, makes the Bull Daniff a great home and family protector. Potential owners should wait until their kids are a little bit older and better equipped to understand boundaries before bringing a dog this size into the home.

If you’re searching for a loving family companion who can also double as a guard and lap dog, the Bull Daniff will certainly not disappoint.

The post Bull Daniff Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care & More by Chantelle Fowler appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Southern Utah has the highest concentration of natural wonders found anywhere on earth. And pet friendly Kanab is the perfect basecamp for your adventures! With three national parks, two national monuments, a national forest, a national recreation area, a state park, and all the activities Kanab has to offer, exploring here with your pets is a dream!

In many ways pet friendly Kanab, Utah feels much as you’d expect any city with less than 5,000 residents to feel. It has a friendly, small-town vibe where serenity and relaxation come easily.

But Kanab’s serendipitous location provides once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to experience some of the most spectacular scenery in America. Visitors here are spoiled with options. And at the end of each day, the unique accommodations and brilliant restaurants restore your body for the next day’s adventure.

Kanab’s Top Attractions

If you’re on a mission to visit America’s most amazing places, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better vacation destination than Kanab, Utah! Three national parks within easy driving distance. Two breathtaking national monuments. A stunning national forest. A national recreation area visited by more than two million people a year. And that’s just the beginning!

National Parks

Bryce Canyon National Park

Just a 90 minute drive from pet friendly Kanab, Bryce Canyon is known for its incredible rock formations. Like a forest of spires and fins clinging to the canyon walls, the fantastically colored hoodoos are constantly changing.

Wind, rain, snow, freezing, and thawing sculpt the stone, forming new hoodoos while turning others to piles of clay. No matter how many times you visit, there’s always something new to see.

READ MORE ⇒ Tips For Visiting Bryce Canyon National Park With Pets

Grand Canyon National Park – North Rim

More than five million people visit the Grand Canyon each year. But only a fraction of them come to the North Rim. From Kanab, you can be there in 90 minutes!

Unfortunately, people traveling with pets will find the North Rim less pet friendly than the South Rim. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth seeing!

At the North Rim dogs are allowed on the Bridal Path and the portion of the Arizona Trail that runs between North Kaibab Trailhead and the north entrance of the park. Both trails are pretty, but neither have views of the canyon.

Pets are also allowed at the picnic areas and in the parking areas of the overlooks. So, pack a lunch and plan to drive the 30 miles of scenic roads at the North Rim, stopping along the way to take in the views.

READ MORE ⇒ Tips For Visiting The South Rim Of Grand Canyon National Park With Pets

Zion National Park

Zion National Park, Utah’s oldest and most popular park, is a 40-minute drive from pet friendly Kanab. With the red and white walls of Navajo sandstone towering 2,000 feet above you, hiking with your pet in Zion is an experience you’ll never forget.

Leashed pets can join you on all paved surfaces at Zion. This includes along public roads and parking areas, in the developed campgrounds, at all turnouts, and on the Pa’rus Trail. In addition, pets are welcome in the picnic areas and on the grounds of the Zion Lodge.

READ MORE ⇒ Tips For Visiting Zion National Park With Pets

National Monuments

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Over 250 million years of the Earth’s geologic history can be seen in the colorful cliffs at Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the monument covers nearly 1.9 million acres. And the Grand Staircase unit is just a few minutes from pet friendly Kanab.

Choose to explore on your own, or hire one Kanab’s excellent outdoor guides and outfitters to show you the hard-to-reach places.

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

People come from all over the world to see the colorful sandstone swirls in Vermilion Cliffs. But if you’re driving from Kanab, you can be there in about 45 minutes.

The Marble Canyon Area is easily accessed from Hwy 89A where it crosses the Colorado River. Here you can take in the views from your car or enjoy a short hike. And as you cross the Navajo Bridge keep your eyes peeled for the California condors that make the bridge home.

If you’re looking for a more remote adventure, you’ll need to plan ahead. Dogs can hike with you in Coyote Buttes North (The Wave), Coyote Buttes South, and for overnight trips in Paria Canyon, but both you and your pup must obtain a permit in advance.

National Forest

Dixie National Forest

If you’re looking to do some hiking with your furry travel buddy, don’t miss the Dixie National Forest. Just 30 minutes from Kanab, Dixie covers almost 2 million acres and is criss-crossed by hundreds of miles of trails.

The best part is … every square inch of the national forest is pet friendly! From mountain tops to pastoral valleys, you and your pet could spend a lifetime in Dixie and not see it all.

READ MORE ⇒ Discovering Utah’s Pet Friendly Dixie National Forest

National Recreation Area

Lake Powell / Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

The deep blue waters of Lake Powell are framed by soaring red peaks. And from pet friendly Kanab, you can be there in about 75 minutes. Though it’s a popular destination, the shoreline here is longer than the entire West Coast of the United States. So you can always find a secluded cove or canyon.

Of course, being on the water is the main attraction here. And you’ll find pet friendly powerboats, houseboats, and kayak rentals available. So you and your pet can have a ball exploring Lake Powell in the watercraft of your choice. Or, when water levels allow, take the ferry between Bullfrog Marina and Halls Crossing for a leisurely cruise.

READ MORE ⇒ Tips for Canoeing or Kayaking with Dogs

Basecamp: Pet Friendly Kanab, Utah

Named for a Paiute word meaning “place of the willows,” Kanab, Utah is the perfect basecamp for exploring all the pet friendly wonders of Southern Utah. Offering world-class hiking and hidden slot canyons, it’s also home to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. And having the largest animal sanctuary in the United States in your backyard makes Kanab an extremely pet friendly city! There are few places where pets aren’t welcome in Kanab. So you and your furry travel companion will find plenty to do together!

Best Time To Visit With Pets

Spring and fall are the most obvious times to visit the American Southwest with pets. However, with 256 days of sunshine each year, chances are good that you will see several days of blue skies and sunshine anytime you visit pet friendly Kanab, Utah.

If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds at the national parks, plan your trip in winter when highs in Kanab are in the mid-40s to low 50s. In fact, the only way to experience Zion Canyon — the most popular attraction at Zion National Park — with your pets is to visit when the park’s shuttles aren’t operating. And they only shut down for certain periods between December and February.

An Entertaining History

Before it became travel destination, Kanab was honing its skills as a gracious host to actors and film crews drawn by its scenery. Nicknamed “Little Hollywood,” hundreds of films have been produced in the area since the 1920s when the local landscape became a favorite for cowboy movies.

Celebrating that heritage, more than 90 plaques now make up Kanab’s Walk of Fame. For old movie buffs, strolling around downtown checking out the photos, actor bios, and film credits for the movies and TV shows shot in Kanab and Kane County is endlessly entertaining!

Kanab’s Pet Friendly Trails System

The selection of pet friendly trails in and around Kanab offers something for everyone. From dino tracks to waterfalls, remote lakes to slot canyons, easy jaunts to all-day treks, you’ll find the perfect option for you and your pet on the Visit Southern Utah website.

Spend A Day At Best Friends Animal Sanctuary

Located on 6,000 acres just five miles north of downtown Kanab, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is much more than its name implies. Started in 1984, Best Friends has gone from caring for animals in search of homes to leading a nationwide movement to bring an end to the killing of homeless dogs and cats. No animal lover would consider a trip to Kanab complete without visiting this inspiring place.

On any given day, the sanctuary is home to as many as 1,600 dogs, cats, birds, bunnies, horses, pigs and other animals. And you’re invited to take a free, guided tour, volunteer to spend time with the animals, or simply enjoy the trails and extraordinary surroundings with your pet.

The sanctuary is open seven days a week, but tours and volunteer opportunities fill up quickly, so be sure to sign up early! During our visit we took the Grand Sanctuary Tour, following the tour shuttle in our car with Myles and listening to the tour guide on our radio. Then we did the Pig & Goat Walking Tour with Myles, keeping him outside the enclosures.

Our next stop was for a wonderful, vegan lunch at Angel Village Café. The view from their patio overlooking Angel Canyon will take your breath away!

Finally, we hit the trails with Myles! Hiking the 1.3-mile Angels Overlook Trail took us to the Gratitude Garden and fantastic views of the canyon below.

There are several trails to choose from, so pick up a trail map at the Welcome Center. And, if you’re not traveling with a pet of your own, sign up to take one of Best Friends’ resident dogs along for company!

Visit Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Just 22 miles west of Kanab, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park protects 1,200 acres of shifting sand dunes! Created by wind funneling through a notch between the Moquith and Moccasin Mountains, it’s a completely unique landscape to see in this part of the country.

Pets on leash are welcome throughout the park, though walking on the sand can be difficult for dogs and humans alike. Also be aware that much of the dunes are open to OHV use, so watch for vehicles as you explore. If traversing the dunes isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other pet friendly hiking opportunities in Kanab and the surrounding area.

The park also has two campgrounds and a nice picnic area if you are looking for a place to eat lunch.

Where To Stay In Pet Friendly Kanab

Disclosure: We were provided with free accommodations at Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile in exchange for sharing our experience with you.

Hopefully, you’re intrigued enough about pet friendly Kanab to plan a trip of your own. If so, you’ll find a nice selection of pet friendly hotels and several campgrounds to choose from! But if you’re an animal lover, there’s really only one place to stay … Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile.

Located on the north side of downtown Kanab, the Roadhouse is the most pet-centric hotel we’ve ever seen. And staying there helps support the lifesaving mission of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, just five miles up the road.

Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile

In a world where some “pet friendly” hotels barely tolerate pets, we’d give Best Friends Roadhouse a 16 out of 10 on the pet friendliness scale. They offer a truly unique experience — the opportunity to stay in a hotel designed for pets!

Our room was lovely, with a small kitchen equipped to prepare and serve simple meals and a dining area to share them. The bed was incredibly comfortable. And the bathroom was gorgeous!

But a lot of hotels have beautiful rooms and cozy beds. Where Best Friends Roadhouse really stands out is in the ways it caters to pets — starting with their pet policy. There is no pet fee, no weight restrictions, no breed restrictions, cats are welcome, and up to four pets are allowed per room.

But even their stellar pet policy isn’t what makes Best Friends Roadhouse so special. It’s the thoughtful amenities that makes your pet’s stay truly memorable.

After a long day in the car, Myles and I were both delighted to find that the Roadhouse has two dog parks! He got to run around and burn off some energy. And Rod and I were off the hook for a long evening walk.

READ MORE ⇒ Barking Dogs In Hotel Rooms: Tips For A Quiet Stay

The hotel provided dog bowls for Myles in our room, but he much preferred slurping from the outdoor dog fountain.

Not being a bath-lover, he was less excited to see the pet spa beside the guest laundry. Fortunately, we didn’t have any incidents that required Myles to get a bath. But it would be super handy for anyone whose dog looks forward to a bit of pampering!

The next treat we discovered (other than the human cookies and dog treats we received at check-in) was that Myles had TWO dog beds to choose from … not including ours!

And the mercantile, in addition to serving a fantastic breakfast, is full of all kinds of goodies. They even have pet gear, in case there’s something you forget to pack.

They’ve even thought of the people who love animals but aren’t traveling with their own pet. The folks at Best Friends Roadhouse will arrange for your choice of a dog, cat, or bunny from Best Friends Animal Sanctuary to sleepover with you. Now, that’s taking pet-friendliness to a whole new level!!

Places To Eat In Pet Friendly Kanab

As I mentioned, Kanab is very pet friendly, and we had no trouble finding outdoor dining options with Myles. From simple takeaway fare, to a vegan taco truck, to outstanding fine dining, going hungry isn’t a concern.

Here is a list of pet friendly eateries in Kanab that offer pet friendly seating:

Angel Village Café – buffet lunch from 11:30am – 1pm daily on the pet friendly patio overlooking Angel Canyon

Best Friends Mercantile – snacks, coffee, and light fare which you can take to go or eat on the covered patio

Brown Box Bakeshop – bakery, soup, sandwiches, and ice cream with sidewalk seating

Fusion House – Pan-Asian cuisine with sidewalk seating

Iron Horse Restaurant – steaks, burgers, ribs and more with a pet friendly patio

Peekaboo Canyon Wood Fired Kitchen – artisanal pizza, sandwiches, and local beer with an outdoor patio

Rocking V Café – comfort food, from buffalo tenderloin to deep dish enchiladas, and the best bread pudding I’ve ever eaten. Pet friendly sidewalk seating.

Wild Thyme Café – fantastic American eatery serving chops, steaks, seafood, and vegetarian options on a quiet, shady deck

READ MORE ⇒ Taking Your Dog To Pet Friendly Restaurants

We hope our stay in pet friendly Kanab, Utah inspires you to explore Southern Utah with your pets! If you’ve visited Kanab, we’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below.

Waggin’ trails!

The post Visit 7 National Parks, Forests & Monuments From Pet Friendly Kanab appeared first on GoPetFriendly.com.

The post Do Dogs and Bunnies Get Along? 6 Tips on Living With Them Both by Jessica Kim appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Dogs and bunnies are unlikely friends, but it’s not impossible for these two pets to live together. When the conditions are right, they can become amicable companions living under the same roof.

While it’s possible, it’s still important to remember that it’ll take a lot of effort and careful consideration to ensure both dogs and bunnies feel safe and stress-free when the other is around. We have some tips and tricks that can help these two types of pets work towards living together harmoniously.

What Are the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare?

The Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare are the basic rights that animals should have when they’re cared for by humans. They’re recognized globally among animal welfare activists and organizations. The Five Freedoms are comprised of the following principles:

Failure to uphold the Five Freedoms indicates bringing unnecessary suffering to animals. Therefore, before you bring home a new pet, it’s important to consider the Five Freedoms and ensure you’re able to provide them for your pet. These principles should be your guiding point when deciding to live with multiple pets.

If you don’t feel confident about being able to uphold the Five Freedoms, it’s an indicator that it’s not the right time to bring home a new bunny or dog. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t ever live with a dog and bunny. You can always try to make changes to your current living situation or lifestyle so that they can meet the standards of the Five Freedoms. Making adjustments just may change your circumstances and enable you to take excellent care of bunnies, dogs, and other pets.

Image Credit: Iryna Imago, Shutterstock

The 6 Tips for Dogs and Bunnies Cohabiting

1. Consider Your Dog’s Breed and Temperament

Your dog’s breed can be an indicator of how well they’ll get along with bunnies. Certain dog breeds were originally bred to hunt, which often results in having a naturally strong prey drive. Hounds, terriers, and pointers are all examples of hunting dogs that have a stronger inclination to chase after small animals.

Of course, not all dogs have temperaments that fit in their breed’s standards. So, it’s also important to consider your dog’s individual personality. If they’re gentle and relaxed, they’re more likely to get along with bunnies than dogs with more energetic and loud personalities.

Image Credit: Edalin Photography, Shutterstock

2. Train Your Dog Beforehand

It’s much easier and safer to have bunnies and dogs live together if the dog has been trained and socialized first. You can get your dog more comfortable and calmer around small animals through incremental socialization. Start by introducing them to other dogs and puppies before letting them encounter other types of animals. If they’re comfortable around dogs, you can slowly introduce them to cats and other smaller animals.

Teaching your dog the “leave it” command will also prove to be useful when introducing your dog to a bunny. This will ensure your dog will leave the bunny alone and return to you consistently.

3. Make Slow Introductions

It’s important to remember that bunnies are prey to many larger animals. So, it’s understandable for them to feel nervous when encountering a dog for the first time.

Keeping this in mind, it’s essential for bunnies to have positive experiences when introducing them to new animals. Progressing too quickly can scare your bunny and cause a significant setback for your bunny’s relationship with your dog.

It’s best to start by having a gate that separates your dog from the room where you keep your bunny’s enclosure. Bunnies have a strong sense of smell and hearing, so they’ll be able to sense your dog, even from far away.

Once your bunny gets used to your dog, you can close the distance by keeping your dog on a leash and letting them walk a little closer to your bunny’s enclosure. Keep closing the gap in small increments and at a pace that’s comfortable for your bunny.

Image Credit: Preediwat, Shutterstock

4. Create a Safe and Private Space for Your Bunny

Bunnies must live in a stress-free environment that makes them feel safe. Even if your bunny gets along with your dog, they still need a private space where they know they can rest and relax undisturbed.

Therefore, make sure you have enough space to set up your bunny’s enclosure. Choose a quiet part of the house that doesn’t get too much foot traffic that will startle your bunny. It’s preferable if this area has a door that you can shut in case your house gets too loud or rowdy.

5. Recognize Fearful Behaviors in Rabbits

When introducing bunnies to dogs, it’s important to understand and accurately read their body language. This will save your bunny from feeling too much fear and stress and prevent negative interactions between the two pets.

Bunnies tend to crouch and tense up when they’re feeling nervous. Their ears may lie flat against their head, and they may tuck their chin closer to their body. Another sign that a bunny is stressed is if their nose stops twitching and remains unusually still.

Angry bunnies can make noises like grunting and growling. They’ll also bare their teeth and take a boxing position where they’re sitting on their hindlegs and raising their front paws.

Image Credit: Valeriy Surujiu, Shutterstock

6. Use Treats To Build Positive Associations

Treats are often an effective training tool for building positive associations. You can encourage your bunny to feel more comfortable around your dog by giving them some of their favorite foods while your dog is nearby. Your bunny can learn to associate the tasty treats with the presence of your dog, making your dog a positive influence.

Your dog will also appreciate being rewarded with treats. You can give them treats whenever they act calm and gentle with your bunny. This will help them understand what kinds of behaviors are appropriate when they’re around your bunny.

Conclusion

If you’re thinking about having a pet dog and bunny, it’s best to first refer to the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare. These principles will help you determine how likely it’ll be for you to provide a safe and happy environment where both your dog and bunny can thrive.

As you prepare to introduce your dog and bunny to each other, remember to take things slow and go at a pace that’s comfortable for both animals. Slow and steady wins the race, and speeding up introductions too quickly can end up startling the animals and create significant setbacks in their relationship.

Featured Image Credit: saharat wannalad, Shutterstock

The post Do Dogs and Bunnies Get Along? 6 Tips on Living With Them Both by Jessica Kim appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.