Training a Puppy to Live Safely with a House Rabbit

A lot is said about the relationship between cats and dogs, often portrayed as mutual enemies – but cats and dogs can indeed live happily and safely together depending on individual personalities, introductions and management. However, as house rabbits are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, many owners wonder if puppies can be trained to live alongside rabbits safely. The short answer is yes, but it requires careful training, supervision and patience.

Most dogs have a natural prey drive and see rabbits – which are prey animals by nature – as potential prey. This instinct is particularly strong in certain breeds like terriers and sighthounds, such as the Greyhound, so owners of such breeds must be especially cautious.

That said, if you bring your puppy home young and introduce them properly to your house rabbit, with careful training and supervision, your dog can learn to respect and coexist safely with your rabbit. This article shares a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this harmonious relationship.

1. Understanding the Risks

Before you even bring your puppy and rabbit together, it’s important to understand the risks involved. The most obvious is your dog’s prey drive, which can make it view the rabbit as something to chase or even attack.

Aside from this, dogs are usually larger and more boisterous than rabbits. Even playful behaviour from a puppy can unintentionally harm a rabbit by pawing, swiping or accidentally squashing them. Therefore, training your puppy to be gentle and calm around your rabbit is as important as teaching them not to chase it.

2. Bringing Your Puppy Home and Preparation

When you first bring your puppy home, give them a few days to settle in and get comfortable. This helps them adjust to their new environment before meeting the rabbit. Introduce household rules, set boundaries for where your puppy can go and establish routines early on.

To prepare for introductions, try getting your puppy familiar with the rabbit’s scent. Place a blanket or bedding the rabbit has used near or with your puppy so they can get accustomed to the smell before meeting face-to-face.

3. Making Safe, Gradual Introductions

Introductions must be very carefully managed. Always have your puppy on a lead, and consider a gate or barrier to ensure your puppy cannot lunge unexpectedly. The rabbit should be comfortably secured, such as in its hutch or a safe enclosure.

Begin by walking your puppy near the rabbit’s area, allowing them to sniff and observe from a safe distance. If the puppy becomes overly excited or barks, calmly but firmly correct the behaviour and step away to calm them down before trying again.

When meeting in person, keep the dog at a safe distance so the rabbit does not feel threatened. If your rabbit is bold and curiosity prompts them to approach the dog, using a muzzle on the puppy can provide extra safety during early interactions.

4. Building Familiarity Over Time

Spend time with your dog on a lead in the same room as the rabbit, allowing the rabbit to move freely but under supervision. The idea is to reduce your dog’s fixation and excitement about the rabbit gradually.

Look for signs that your puppy can remain calm and not snap or overreact when the rabbit approaches or sniffs them. Some puppies might initially be wary or fearful of rabbits, which, while less risky than aggression, still requires patience and calm management.

5. Training for Respectful and Gentle Behaviour

Teach your puppy basic commands early, such as "sit," "stay," and "leave it." These commands are vital when controlling your puppy’s behaviour around a rabbit.

Use positive reinforcement techniques to reward your puppy for calm, gentle interactions or ignoring the rabbit. Training not to chase the rabbit, not to paw or nip, and to respond reliably to voice commands should be a core focus.

6. Long-Term Management and Supervision

The timeline for allowing your puppy and rabbit to interact more freely varies based on the puppy’s age, breed, and temperament. Starting young makes training easier and safer.

It’s strongly advised never to leave the two alone unsupervised until you are absolutely confident your dog will not harm or frighten the rabbit. Even then, ongoing supervision or quick access to separate them is wise because rabbits can be fragile.

Remember that some puppies, particularly breeds with high prey drives, might never be entirely reliable around rabbits, and owners should always prioritise the safety and welfare of both pets.

7. Dog Breeds with High Prey Drive to Consider

Be mindful that breeds with strong prey drives such as terriers, sighthounds like the Greyhound and Whippet, Beagles, and Rhodesian Ridgebacks have an instinctive chase urge that makes rabbit safety more challenging.

This doesn’t mean these dogs can’t live with rabbits, but it requires more thorough training, slow introductions, and rigorous supervision. Always consult a professional trainer if unsure.

Conclusion

Training a puppy to live safely with a house rabbit is a process of patient, gradual introductions paired with consistent training, supervision, and respect for each animal’s nature and needs. With dedication, many dogs and rabbits become comfortable companions, sharing a peaceful home.

Remember to prioritise the welfare of both your puppy and rabbit throughout, and consult your vet or professional behaviourists when needed to ensure the best outcomes for your beloved pets.