Bunny Bootcamp

Rabbits are clever critters, so instead of just letting Thumper sit pretty in his pen, teach him these impressive tricks!
Pets Team 28 June 2020

• Target Training

Using your hand or an attractive object, draw the attention of your bun and reward him when he tracks the movement of the object.

• Recall

Start by calling your bunny’s name and reward any reaction, then encourage him to hop to you from a short distance. Gradually recall your bunny from further away—even another room!

• Pose Pretty

Teach your bun to sit by holding a treat above his nose, then giving an ‘up’ command. This trick is guaranteed to impress your guests!

• Hoppity Hop

Once bunny is used to following a target, lead him to leap over over a raised bar with a ‘hop’ command. Gradually increase the height of the bar, or even lead him through a hoop.

• Weave

Using an object to catch your bun's attention, reward him when he physically follows the target. Gradually increase the distance by weaving a path around or between your legs.

• Bedtime

Using a treat, lead your rabbit into his carrier or pen with a ‘bedtime’ or ‘home’ command. Subsequently, transition to a verbal command, or tap the cage or carrier if bunny needs some guidance.