What is a Belgian Hare?

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. The Belgian hare's lanky, fine-boned look has earned it the nickname "race horse of the rabbit fancy."

The classic Belgian hare is red in color, and this is the only color that recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), one of the world's leading organizations for rabbit breeders. Belgian hares also come in black, black and tan, however, and there are some that are ruby-eyed white. All colors are considered to be attractive, although they may not be permitted in some rabbit shows.

Belgian hares also are considered to make great pets. They are said to have a good disposition, although some might be a bit skittish. The Belgian hare is a fairly large rabbit, sometimes exceeding 9 pounds (4.1 kg), so it requires a fair amount of space. Also, the Belgian hare has a very fast metabolism and requires more food than a pet owner might expect for a rabbit of its size.

The first Belgian hares were bred in Belgium during the 19th century and brought to England in 1874. Fourteen years later, they arrived in the United States, where they became immensely popular in rabbit shows. Belgian hare clubs soon cropped up around the country, thousands were bred, and some sold for as much as $1,000 US dollars — an exorbitant amount of money at the time. This popularity was short-lived, however, tapering off during the 1920s, and in the early 21st century, the Belgian hare is one of the rarer rabbit breeds.

Belgian hares are said to be among the smartest rabbits. They have special feeding needs and require significant amounts of exercise. They are more fragile than some other rabbit breeds because of their delicate bones, so this should be taken into consideration by anyone who is thinking about keeping a Belgian hare to show or as a pet. Belgian hare breeders have a reputation of being devoted to the breed.

A Belgian Hare is not a true hare but a breed of domestic rabbit that closely resembles a wild hare in appearance. Developed in Belgium in the early 18th century, they are known for their long, slender bodies, arched backs, and powerful legs. They have a rich, chestnut red coat and weigh between 6 to 9 pounds when fully grown.

The Belgian Hare is distinct from other rabbit breeds due to its physical resemblance to a wild hare, with a more athletic and racy build. They have longer ears, a more prominent head, and a finer bone structure. Their temperament is also more active and energetic, requiring more exercise and mental stimulation than some other breeds.

Belgian Hares require spacious living conditions due to their active nature. They need a diet high in fiber, including hay, fresh vegetables, and a limited amount of pellets. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their sleek coat, and they need mental stimulation through toys and interaction. They also require gentle handling as they can be skittish.

While Belgian Hares can be affectionate, their energetic disposition and sensitivity to handling may not make them the best choice for families with young children. They are better suited to families with older children or adults who understand the need for careful and respectful interaction with these active animals.

With proper care, Belgian Hares can live for 7 to 10 years. Their lifespan is influenced by factors such as diet, housing, healthcare, and genetics. Providing a safe environment, regular veterinary check-ups, and a balanced diet can help ensure a long and healthy life for a Belgian Hare.

Belgian Hares are indeed popular in the show ring due to their striking appearance and dynamic personalities. They are recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) and can compete in various categories. Their elegant form, color, and condition are assessed against the breed standard, making them a competitive and rewarding choice for rabbit enthusiasts.