Rabbits living with Jack Russels

baileybunny

Does anyone know, can rabbits and jack russells live together in the same household?

Twig

It really does depend on the dog, I mean I have an airedale terrier, the largest of all terriers and shes great with the buns despite being created by crossing an otterhound and black and tan, both used in the past to hunt.

However, jack russells are traditionally ratters and wouldn't hestitate to chase and attack other furries such as bunnies given half the chance, they really are big dogs in a small body and require a home where they will be exercised a lot to get rid of their energy.

I would be VERY wary of getting a JR to be honest, do you have much experience with dogs and would the dog be coming into the home as a pup or as an adult? If you are thinking of getting adult who won't grow up with the rabbits I personally wouldn't risk it at all, can I ask why a JR as I may be able to suggest a different breed? Smile

Hcollie85

i agree with Twig, and me personaly wouldnt advise it
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cmd

I wouldn't if I were you - Russels despite being generally friendly and able to play gently, may attack rabbits if not trained from birth. You only need one 'accident' and you may regret your decision. If you're set on getting a JR then get a puppy that is trainable and gentle. Also I wouldn't let the animals run in the same space at all, even if the dog is small it could seriously harm the bunnies if they are playing together. Maybe look into other breeds that do well with other pets - I'm not sure a Jack Russel is a good idea but it depends on the dog some will see a bunny as something to chase or a competition for attention and others will simply ignore it or just see it as something hopping around
Good Luck anyway Smile

Twig

Just to add, that as ratters, they literally grab their prey flip it into the air and that breaks their necks, so they are very quick and efficient killers. Wink

coliel

Hi,
We use to have a paterdale called Mac which is a little similer to a jack russel for ratting and he did exactly what Twig said so affishent and much better and humane than nasty traps or poisen -both types my father wouldnt use because of the chance of a chicken eating the poisen or getting trapped. We did have gerbils as kids but we litrely had to tell every one we were getting them out and make sure all the out side doors were shut so that Mac couldnt get in as he would litrely try to jump in the air to get one !!!!
My advice would be if you have small animals dont go for a terrier. You wont be able to relax and their are so many other breeds its not realy worth it .
The only small furry animal you can mix with all dogs seem to be ferrets - I think because they dont run dogs dont chase.
Love coliel