A Belgian Hare is a type of domesticated rabbit with a unique appearance. These rabbits are so named because they originated in Belgium and have been bred to resemble hares. They are sleek and wiry, with long, fragile bones and long ears and back feet. Its lanky, fine-boned look has earned the Belgian Hare the nickname "Race Horse of the Rabbit Fancy."

The classic Belgian Hare is red in color, and this is the only color recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA). However, Belgian Hares also come in black, black and tan, and the very rare ruby-eyed white. All colors are attractive, though they may not be showable, and Belgian Hares are said to make great pets as well. The Belgian Hare is a fairly large rabbit, sometimes exceeding nine pounds, so it requires a fair amount of space. Also, the Belgian Hare has a very fast metabolism and requires more food than you might expect for a rabbit its size.

The first Belgian Hares were bred in Belgium in the 19th century and brought to England in 1874. Fourteen years later, they arrived in America, where they became immensely popular in the rabbit show world. Belgian Hare clubs cropped up around the nation, thousands were bred, and some sold for as much as 1,000 US dollars (USD). This popularity was short-lived, however, tapering off in the 1920s, and today the Belgian Hare is one of the rarer rabbit breeds.

Belgian Hares are said to be among the smartest rabbits. As mentioned above, they have special feeding needs, and they also require significant exercise. They are more fragile than some other rabbit breeds because of their delicate bones, so take this into consideration when considering keeping a Belgian Hare to show or as a companion. Belgian Hare breeders have a reputation of being devoted to the breed, and its handsome looks are certainly rewarding. Belgian Hares are also said to have a good disposition making them desirable pets, though some may be skittish, .