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Thuringian Rabbits

Written by Jana Schubert
Rabbit standing, eating a leaf.

© Petra Kohlstädt / stock.adobe.com

The low-maintenance Thuringian rabbits enjoy having plenty of room to run around.

The Thuringian rabbit, a breed that’s been around for over a century from the region of Thuringia, may need a bit more space than other fluffy pals, but what they offer in return are exceptionally even-tempered and docile qualities. Discover everything else that’s good to know about this breed right here.

Table of contents

  1. Appearance: How do I recognise a Thuringian Rabbit?
  2. Keeping Thuringian Rabbits: They need space
  3. Behaviour: Thuringian Rabbits are tame and good-natured
  4. Diet and Health
  5. History: Where do Thuringian Rabbits originate from?
  6. Conclusion: Pleasant Companions with a Snuggle Factor
  7. Profile of the Thuringian Rabbit

Appearance: How do I recognise a Thuringian Rabbit?

The first thing you’ll notice about Thuringian rabbits is their dense fur’s distinctive colour. The yellow-brown to yellow-red hue, accompanied by dark, smoke-grey markings on the face and ears, is such a standout that it’s become known across breeds as the Thuringian colour.

Well-proportioned Physique

Ideally, the Thuringian boasts a compact and robust build. The short, pronounced head sits directly atop the torso, with the neck almost completely hidden. Their upright and well-furred ears, set laterally on the head, are ten to twelve centimetres in length.

These bunnies are supported by strong, medium-length hind legs that give them plenty of jumping power and ground clearance. The body features a harmonious backline that rounds off smoothly at the end.

How heavy does a Thuringian Rabbit get?

These fluffy bundles of joy tip the scales between three and four and a half kilograms.

Sun or rain? Their fur colour can change depending on the weather and generally darkens with age.

Keeping Thuringian Rabbits: They need space

Before opting for Thuringian rabbits, bear in mind a few key points. Like all rabbits, Thuringians should not be kept on their own. At the very least, companion pairs are necessary to prevent these sociable creatures from feeling lonely.

Keeping Rabbits in Outdoor Enclosures

Thuringian rabbits require ample space. An outdoor living space with generous enclosures featuring various levels, play areas, and plenty of variety is ideal.

They love being outdoors, but need protection adapted to the weather. A sturdy roof fends off intense sunlight and precipitation, while a cosy burrow becomes a retreat during colder spells.

Be warned: Enclosure sides should be buried into the ground, as rabbits are burrowing champions and might otherwise earn themselves a quick escape.

Keeping Thuringian Rabbits Indoors

Don’t have a garden? No worries, you can keep the rabbits inside as well. However, a small cage will only make them miserable in the long run. Think about allocating an entire room to them, if possible.

Many rabbit enthusiasts have found success in leaving the hutch door open during the day. This allows the Thuringians to hop and play throughout the whole flat.

With some training, these clever creatures learn that carpets aren’t toilets and will happily return to their enclosure for rest and sleep. This method of keeping assumes that your home environment is rabbit-proof and free from hazards.

Cleaning Thuringian Rabbit Enclosures

Whether it’s inside or outside, keep their home clean. A rabbit’s perhaps greatest enemies are bacteria that thrive in soiled bedding. Regularly clean food and water dishes as well.

Behaviour: Thuringian Rabbits are tame and good-natured

Rabbit personalities vary widely, but Thuringians are notably affable. They’re tame, trusting and readily make friends. Regular play and stroking strengthen your bond with the rabbit.

Once they build trust, Thuringians can form very strong connections, even behaving like little dogs. This human-like behaviour is particularly noticeable in open house living.

They literally follow you every step of the way and participate in everything.

Diet and Health

A fibre-rich, balanced diet is crucial for rabbits. Fresh, high-quality herbal hay and clean straw are the cornerstones of good nutrition. Fibre-rich dry food is also popular among most rabbit breeds.

Though, be cautious with fresh fruit: it contains sugar, which can lead to diabetes in rabbits. Fresh vegetables are a better choice, providing additional hydration on top of drinking water.

Always ensure that food is available in sufficient quantities to keep their digestion running smoothly and to prevent constipation. Supply a bowl or rabbit waterer with constant fresh water, too.

How long do Thuringian Rabbits live?

Thuringian rabbits boast a long lifespan, living up to 15 years. During this time, they require minimal care: just clean their ears and hindquarters when dirty and trim their claws regularly.

Also, regularly check your rabbit for injuries and infections. Open wounds are particularly concerning; especially in summer, fly larvae can take hold and cause significant issues.

If your rabbit displays any unusual behaviours for an extended period, whether it’s hyperactive or lethargic, bring it to the vet immediately.

Good to know: Rabbits – and particularly the precocious Thuringians – breed rapidly. Make sure to sterilise them in time, otherwise, you’ll be inundated with long-eared offspring.

History: Where do Thuringian Rabbits originate from?

Thuringian rabbits were first bred at the end of the 19th century in Thuringia. They arose from the crossing of Russian, Silver, and Giant rabbits.

From the 1930s onwards, today’s breeding standards for Thuringians were established. They’ve been recognised as a breed since then. Breeders are organised within the Central Association of German Rabbit Breeders.

Conclusion: Pleasant Companions with a Snuggle Factor

The Thuringian rabbit is especially pleasant and people-oriented: friendly, tame, and easy to care for. They enjoy being fed carrots and having their soft fur stroked – what’s not to love?

They’re just not keen on skimping on space. So, make sure you’ve got enough room in the garden or consider open house living.

Profile of the Thuringian Rabbit

Special Features:A tame breed of rabbit first bred in Thuringia in the early 20th century.
Personality:Calm, tame, balanced 
Size:30-50cm
Weight:3.0-4.5kg 
Keeping:Outdoor enclosures, protected from the cold
Socialisation:At least in pairs, better in a group
Diet:Dry food, concentrated feed, wet food like lettuce, vegetables, fruit (in moderation)
Colours:Yellow-brown to yellow-red with dark markings
Lifespan:Up to 15 years
Origin:Germany

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Jana Schubert
Profilbild von zooplus Magazin Autorin Jana Schubert

Since I was a baby, I preferred to cuddle with our Persian cat rather than with my teddy bear. Later I got on my parents' nerves until I was allowed to adopt a horse. I have had many memorable experiences with my pets. And even though life with animals is not always easy, I wouldn't consider any other because pets touch my soul like nothing else. I even feel this magic when I write about them, and I hope some of it touches you as well.

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