Pet Keen advocates for adopting before shopping. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here.
Flemish giants are the largest of all domesticated rabbits, reaching a weight of up to 15 pounds as adults. Their overall size is attractive to potential owners, as well as their docile temperaments. But where can you find such a breathtaking beast?
If you recently stumbled across the breed on your rabbit search, you might worry that these rabbits are pricey or unaffordable. But let’s break down the costs with you so you can see if the Flemish giant rabbit is in your budget and how you can find the right breeder.
The 4 Ways to Find Flemish Giant Rabbit Breeders in the United States
Suppose you’re trying to seek out a Flemish giant breeder but find it difficult—not to worry. There are plenty of ways to find authentic breeders—and even a few that ship for your convenience.
1. Top Site for Breeders
The National Federation for Flemish Giant Rabbit Breeders (NFFGRB) is a proud organization that shares information, resources, and breeder details with visitors. The website is easy to navigate, providing a whole section of Flemish giant rabbit breeders around.
The NFFGRB has access to all registered breeders, so you can easily pick one that works best for you.
The National Federation of Flemish Giant Rabbit Breeders
2. Breeders Near Me
These websites list breeders along with their current litters and contact information. Some people require that new owners be on a waiting list before placement. You can search for one that is the nearest to you and see if they have available or upcoming litters.
Rabbit Breeders Website
Flemish Giant Website
3. Breeders That Ship
Shipping isn’t a commonplace practice for Flemish giant rabbits going to new homes, but Happy Tails has no issue obliging. You do have to consider risks, costs, and time associated with shipping your Flemish giant to see if it’s the best decision.
Happy Tails Flemish Giants
4. Other Ways to Find Flemish Giants
In addition to existing breeder websites and directories, you can find litters by browsing pet sites or social media platforms like:
Hoobly
Craigslist
Social Media
PetFinder
How Much Does a Flemish Giant Rabbit Cost?
Even though prices differ from factors, the average cost of a Flemish giant totals up to $50 for pet quality. Pedigree Flemish giants of breeding quality can cost between $50 and $100.
Breeders will charge different rates based on reputation, competitive cost, rabbit quality, and breeding potential.
In addition to breeders that produce quality Flemish giants, there are other options, too.
See Also: How Much Does a Rabbit Cost?
Image Credit: Wout van Turenhout, Pixabay
Shelter/Rescue
Another place to consider is a local shelter or rescue. Facilities like these take in surrendered and abandoned pets to place in new forever homes. While the majority of animals are usually dogs and cats, rabbits and other small animals might be there, too.
If you adopt a Flemish giant, you can expect to pay roughly $20 to $50.
Related Read: How to Take Care of a Rabbit (Care Sheet & Guide)
Pet Ads
There are always owners who post ads on sites like social media, Craigslist, and Hoobly where people bid to part with their animals. You can browse listings to see if any Flemish giant is in need of a new partner in crime.
Private sales are very individual, meaning prices can vary drastically—or may even be free. Plus, you have to consider if the rabbit comes with any supplies that can save you some upfront costs instead of racking up substantial dollars on items starting out.
Things to Ask a Flemish Giant Rabbit Breeder
Before you commit to a Flemish giant, finding a top-quality breeder is essential. All litters should have excellent care, and breeding should always happen responsibly and professionally.
Here are some topics to discuss with your breeder:
What is the temperament of both rabbit parents?
Both parents will have their own personalities and quirks. How your Flemish giant will act as an adult depends significantly on genetics. Walk through all the details about the temperament of both parents.
For example, are they prone to anxiety, timidness, or fearfulness? Are they social, friendly, or naughty? Knowing all you can about the parents ensures that you will have the type of personality and temperament that meshes with your lifestyle.
If you are adopting a Flemish giant, you want to make sure you are both compatible with each other. You need to spend a little time with the rabbit before committing to make sure they don’t nip or show aggression, especially if this animal is a pet for children.
Image Credit: Michele M Vogel, Shutterstock
Does the breed line have any predisposed genetic health issues?
Even though Flemish giants are hardy, they can still have health issues come up. Genetic conditions that may come through the bloodline can rack up unexpected vet bills if you don’t know what to watch for.
Even though most breeders avoid using rabbits with predisposed genetic health issues, there can still be risk factors that might affect current litters. Always discuss this potential so you and your veterinarian can rule out any problems.
Does the rabbit need any special accommodations?
Not all rabbits are born perfect—some need a little extra TLC. Before you purchase, is there anything you should know about their health? Perhaps they are allergic to a certain food or require a fragrance-free shampoo.
Knowing as much as you can about little quirks can help your Flemish giant settle in faster.
See Also: 10 Best Rabbit Shampoos: Reviews & Top Picks
Image Credit: zoosnow, Pixabay
Is there a return policy?
Many breeders have definite rules on return policies. There might have been a specific contract you signed, stating that if you cannot care for your Flemish giant, they are returned to the breeder.
Each breeder will be different, however. Some do not allow returns after finalizing the sale.
The 7 Facts to Know Before Buying a Flemish Giant Rabbit
1. You can litter train your Flemish giant rabbit.
Rabbits are easily potty-trained, and Flemish giants are no exception. Litter training really helps with overall care since these guys produce a lot of waste in a day.
2. Flemish giants have incredibly powerful hindlegs and incisors.
Even though Flemish giants carry the reputation of being super friendly, remember that these guys are massive. Standard-sized rabbits can still do real damage if they feel threatened or insecure, so you can imagine what your Flemish giant could do.
Truthfully, it’s really best not to handle adult Flemish rabbits often. If they do panic, it can cause significant injury for them or you.
Image Credit: mariesacha, Shutterstock
3. Flemish giants have ears that reach over 8 inches long.
Get out your measuring tapes because Flemish giants have oversized ears that might be nearly as long as your forearm! But we think it makes them even more adorable—don’t you?
4. Flemish giants are quite a bit of work.
Even though taking care of a rabbit might seem like an easy task, it can be challenging—especially for novice owners.
5. Some use Flemish giants as meat rabbits.
Flemish giants are still favorable meat rabbits in the industry today due to their massive size.
6. You can turn your Flemish giant into a house bunny.
Some owners train their Flemish giants so well that they can free range in the house. Now, this is not to say that you shouldn’t have an enclosure. After all, you still need to leave the house—possibly for extended periods—and your rabbit will require a safe place while you’re gone.
7. Flemish giants are herbivores.
Even though these beasts look like they could eat a house, they prefer plant matter only, please.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you can find a Flemish giant with this information—whether it’s a baby or a full-grown adult. Be as selective as you can about the quality of the rabbit to ensure top-notch health and longevity.
Before you finalize your purchase, exhaust all avenues. You wouldn’t want your furry soulmate to slip through the cracks—best of luck on your bunny search!
Related article:
Flemish Giant Rabbits for Sale in Australia: Breeders List
Flemish Giant Rabbits for Sale in California: Breeders List
Featured Image Credit: nigel baker photography, Shutterstock
I am broadly interested in how human activities influence the ability of wildlife to persist in the modified environments that we create.
Specifically, my research investigates how the configuration and composition of landscapes influence the movement and population dynamics of forest birds. Both natural and human-derived fragmenting of habitat can influence where birds settle, how they access the resources they need to survive and reproduce, and these factors in turn affect population demographics. Most recently, I have been studying the ability of individuals to move through and utilize forested areas which have been modified through timber harvest as they seek out resources for the breeding and postfledging phases. As well I am working in collaboration with Parks Canada scientists to examine in the influence of high density moose populations on forest bird communities in Gros Morne National Park. Many of my projects are conducted in collaboration or consultation with representatives of industry and government agencies, seeking to improve the management and sustainability of natural resource extraction.
