| Size: | Giant |
| Weight: | 12- 30+ pounds |
| Lifespan: | 4-5 Years |
| Type of body: | Semi-arch |
| Temperament: | You are calm, gentle, and smart |
| For: | Experiential rabbit owners who have enough space to house this large breed |
The Continental Giant rabbit, the long-time holder of the title of “largest rabbit worldwide”, is an extraordinary breed. These European-bred sluggers are hard to miss. The longest examples measured in excess of 4 feet.
The Continental Giant is a large breed that outsizes medium-sized dog breeds. It has been adopted by many loving families across the country because of its gentle nature and ability to train. The Continental Giant is a unique breed of rabbit. Read on to learn more!
The History and Origins of the Continental Giant Rabbit
The Continental Giant is believed to be the descendant of Flemish Giant rabbits or wild European Hares. It has been recognized in Europe since the 1800s. Their family tree sometimes called a German Giant rabbit or a German Giant bunny takes them back to Belgium in about the 16th century.
Although little is known about the origins of this large breed, it has been displayed in British Rabbit Competition shows ever since the early 1900s. They are described as a “big, solid rabbit that gives off an impression of power”, and has been in the public’s sights for over 100 years.
General Description
A Continental Giant is a giant with a remarkable feature. These gentle giants stand out with their two-foot-tall bodies and weights of nearly 30 pounds. To equalize the weight of one Continental Giant, it would take nearly a dozen Netherland Dwarves!
Contis, as they are affectionately known by their owners, still retain some of the dignity of their hare ancestors. They have an imposing presence that belies how gentle and loving they really are. They are playful and affectionate, and can even take well to training.
Darius, who was 4 feet 4 inches in length, is an excellent example of the sheer size these rabbits can reach. Although Ralph, a Sussex-born Continental Giant rabbit, was almost 53 pounds. These records are not typical of the breed but they do show what you could be getting into if a Conti is your pet.
These giants are available in eight colors: black, dark, light, and red. You may be surprised at how often these giants want to be petted and cuddled.
Health and Diet
The same standards for rabbit nutrition apply to Continental Giants. However, they will require significantly more. A Conti can have more than one water bottle and a dish.
Keep this in mind when giving a Continental Giant water and hay. You can make sure they have access to clean water in every room and in every yard.
It is amazing how many nutritional supplements a Conti can take! It is a good idea to have plenty of dark leafy greens, protein-rich kibble, carrots, and apples on hand to help with their constant hunger. This breed is more tolerant than other rabbits due to their larger size. However, they can still enjoy a few treats, but not too many. They are susceptible to serious health problems if they become overweight.
The most important thing to remember when considering this breed is that they need plenty of space in your house and a large backyard. Because of their large size, they require more activity than medium-sized dogs. This includes frequent outdoor running and play.
Extra Care Requirements
Continental Giant’s coats can be managed with just a few brushings per week (twice during the shedding season), but you need to pay attention to their large, ponderous feet. Although smaller rabbits are less likely to develop sores on the hocks than larger ones, this breed’s extra weight can lead to sore spots that require treatment by a veterinarian.
Temperament
Continental Giant Rabbits, loving and kind, are affectionate and love to play. They can also be taught tricks as they are an intelligent breed. They will respond to gentle, consistent handling as they grow up, and they will eventually behave like a dog.
Last Thoughts on The Continental Giant Rabbit
This gentle giant rabbit is easy to marvel at. Many potential rabbit owners are attracted to their playful nature and large size. Although we recommend that you have some experience caring for rabbits before taking on a Continental Giant. Once you are comfortable with them, they can be great companions.
Are Continental Giant rabbits suitable as pets?
The Continental giant rabbit is exceptionally gentle and quiet, making them excellent domestic pets and family friends. They frequently jump around the home and, when they get to know their owners, will even perch on their laps.
Is a cage necessary for huge rabbits?
A cage is not required for your rabbit. An untrained rabbit, on the other hand, should probably be kept in some form of home-base, such as an exercise pen (x-pen), a big cage, or some other protected housing, when you’re not home to oversee and at night when you sleep.
Should I let my rabbit alone at night?
It is not a good idea to let a rabbit run free overnight for the following reasons: Rabbits munch on whatever they come across. Electric wires are a popular delicacy. Unattended rabbits may electrocute themselves or ignite a fire.
Is it necessary to cover my rabbit’s cage at night?
Even if it isn’t strictly essential, covering your rabbit’s cage at night may be advantageous. Some rabbits are so sensitive that they have difficulty remaining silent in the dark. A towel or blanket draped over the cage might provide additional protection.
Is it okay if I let my rabbit go about the house?
Instead of spending most of their time in an enclosure, free-roam rabbits are permitted to roam freely throughout the house or apartment, even while their pet parents are not there. Free-roaming rabbits may explore, nap, and play wherever they like, similar to how many humans share their homes with cats and dogs.
Can enormous bunnies be trained to go potty?
Bunnies, like cats, can be litter trained, which is why so many bunny owners can let their buns run free in the house. Litter training comes effortlessly to most rabbits since they prefer to perform their business in one location.
How can I stop my rabbit from pooping all over the place?
The easiest method to keep your rabbit from pooping all over the place is to get it spayed or neutered. This will lessen the rabbit’s territorial impulses, which force them to spread their droppings. You should also make sure they have a friendly and easily accessible litter box at all times.
Do rabbits enjoy being held?
When approached properly, most rabbits like being caressed and rubbed. Few people enjoy being carried or hugged since being so high off the ground makes them feel uneasy; nevertheless, many people would willingly sit on your lap or snuggle up next to you for a cuddle.
Why is my bunny peeing on me?
To indicate their territory, rabbits frequently spray pee. If your rabbit urinates on you, he or she may be claiming you as part of its territory!
How large can gigantic continental rabbits grow?
The longest Continental Giant on record is around 4 feet 4 inches (c. 132 cm) long, and the heaviest is about 53 pounds (c. 24kg). The breed’s average lifetime is 45 years.