Show Primer

What qualities do judges look for in a rabbit? It depends on the competition! For the most part, we sell to youth show participants like 4H and FFA members, so this primer is directed to improve your overall show experience at that type of show. Refer to the Links page for the Standard of Perfection for more specific information. Be aware that all shows are different, but the ones we typically support share many commonalities. Feel free to send in more tips and information that can be incorporated into the page!

Basics

The three most common show categories are junior breeders, senior breeders and meat pens. Breeder rabbits, due to their size, are called roasters. Juniors are under six months of age, and seniors are six months or older.

A meat pen consists of three young rabbits, called fryers. They are typically between 4-6.5 pounds apiece. Making sure your three rabbits are identical in conformation and weight is most important. Conformation is the term used to identify an animal’s physical proportions, such as how long the legs are compared to the spine. The rabbits are graded on conformation, the amount of meat on their bodies, fur, and many other qualities. You earn points for meeting these ideals.

Above all, you want three identical rabbits for a meat pen, because producing rabbits of consistent quality is more important than the occasional great results. For example, three A quality rabbits are more likely to beat a pen of A+, A+, and A-. For optimal conditions, pick rabbits from the same litter, and train at least five. When the time comes, pick the best three and go. However, since youth participants are from ages 7 to 18, half a dozen rabbits are often beyond budget. Furthermore, different shows have different validation requirements, which may affect the number of rabbits you may choose to validate. Common practice starts with four rabbits and merely leaving one at home, though larger original groupings may lead to more success.

Validation is when you formally check your rabbits in at a pre-show, usually several few weeks before the show. They check to see that the rabbits meet minimum weight requirements and that they have the correct tattoo per participant. Rabbits usually need an identification tattoo in the left ear. Not all shows require Validation paperwork, however, so you need to find out what your show requirements are ahead of time.

Cooperation

Cooperation may weigh more than conformity in a show. What does a judge think when he attempts to handle a rabbit that refuses to cooperate? A judge has no reason to fight one misbehaving rabbit when they have seventy more pens to examine.

To avoid this scenario, we recommend that you train your rabbits properly as you prepare to show. To do so, handle each individual rabbit at least five minutes every day, preferably more. Get them comfortable with the following: handling, getting picked up and flipped over, their teeth checked, and set back on the table in rapid succession. Furthermore, when left on the table, they must be trained not to wander off, but to sit quietly for a few minutes.

When placed on a table, a rabbit will at first be scared and perhaps try to scramble away. After calming, it may remain still for about five to ten minutes before getting curious and checking out everything else in sight. Warning- a bunny has little fear of heights and may hop off a table. Watch it closely so it does not get hurt. Don’t forget that you must always be gentle with your rabbits, and that healthy treats are good behavior incentives.

The Pose

Now how do you want him to sit? You know better than to expect your bunny to be sprawled over and relaxed. It should show off its conformation for the judge to easily see. You do not want the bunny standing, walking, or lying flat.

• He should sit facing forward with his spine rounded, rump peaking high over the hips and then ending at a sharp drop. If you pass a hand over his spine, the highest point should taper to a vertical slope to the table.
• Ears erect, straight, and together.
• His front toes should be even with his eyes, and forefeet should be arranged so his limbs are straight, parallel and flat on the ground.
• Like the forefeet, the hind legs should be parallel and flat on the ground, with the toes about even with his knees.

You

Did you read correctly? Yes you did! Remember, as a rabbit show participant, you're on stage too. The judge may score you as well, and he is paying attention. Make sure you can handle your rabbits properly and be able to pose them. Also, dress appropriately for the show setting. Is your hair combed and your breath fresh? Can you answer their questions directly and maintain eye contact with the judge? Prepare yourself, too. Leave your gum at home.