The Pet Atlas

Breed Rabbits Medium

Belgian Hare

Racy, athletic rabbit built for speed, with a long, lean outline

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
High
Handling comfort
High
Health sensitivity
Medium
Grooming
Low
Temperature sensitivity
Medium

Context & compatibility

Size
Medium
Lifespan
6–9 years
Body weight
7–9 lb
Coat type
Normal
Coat length
Short
Ear type
Upright

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Can provide substantial daily run space and enrichment for a very athletic type
  • Prefer a rabbit where exercise outlets are a real part of the care plan

Not ideal

  • Want a low-activity routine with minimal space demands

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

The athlete of the group—quick, alert, and easily stimulated by motion and novelty.

Handling & social style

Often more watch-and-enjoy than cuddly; handling lands best when it stays calm, brief, and grounded.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

Belgian Hare rabbit care is activity-forward. The athletic build changes day-to-day expectations more than coat or grooming does.

Environment & space

They benefit from larger, open movement areas and do best when given room to move quickly and stretch out.

Daily routine

Normal routines often include long movement loops, high alertness, and strong reactions to changes in their environment.

Health sensitivities

Stress sensitivity can be higher than in calmer breeds; predictable environments tend to matter more.

Grooming / coat

Short coat with low grooming needs.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

Belgium

Background

Bred to resemble a hare in shape and stance, first in Belgium and later refined in the U.K. The long, athletic body style is the signature theme, more than coat texture or a fixed marking pattern.