Buying a Bunny
Before you consider buying any animal, I suggest doing a good amount of research about the animal of interest. Often times, an animal will have a good overall reputation as a "good family pet", or an "easy-going, loving addition to the family". These over-arching statements may be true to many, but what is good for one family isn't always perfect for another. By considering the animal's living arrangements, dietary needs, and behavior before bringing the animal home, you will have a better idea of what it will be like living with the animal. Being knowledgable about the breed usually ends well for both pet and owner.
Breed
Like the American Kennel Club (AKC) for dogs, there is an American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) for rabbits.The ARBA is a national club that officially recognizes over 48 breeds of rabbit. Shows are held all over the country every year to give breeders a chance to compete against other breeders, in the never-ending quest to come as close as they can to matching their breed's Standard of Perfection.
What is little known to most people is that rabbits come in a great variety of sizes, colors, and fur/wool textures. Some of the most popular breeds to the pet world are the Netherland Dwarf (2-3 lbs.), Holland Lop (2-4 lbs.), and Mini Lop (about 6 lbs.), as many people prefer a smaller breed for their pet. However, others own rabbits much larger, like Flemish Giants and French Lops.
In an effort to narrow down your choices, I suggest starting with size. Once you have decided on a size range to look at, take a good look at the ARBA's breed photos page. Here you can find pictures of all the ARBA recognized breeds. However, don't forget "designer breeds" that are still in the making, such as Lionheads, Mini Plush Lops, or Velveteen Lops. You can find breeder websites for these breeds through a quick Google search for your area. Although these breeds are not yet recognized by the ARBA, they are being worked on by many breeders who are constantly selling rabbits that don't quite "fit the bill" in type or quality, but will make excellent pet rabbits.
Where to Shop
When searching for rabbits, there are many options to consider.
Reputable Breeder
This is the option I highly suggest and will personally always use. A reputable breeder is someone who knows their breed well and is producing rabbits with a goal to improve upon the breed. Rabbits from a reputable breeder will be in excellent health and condition upon sale, and most breeders are VERY helpful and willing to talk with you about their breed. In addition, these breeders are friends who you can keep in contact with for the rest of the rabbit's life and will always be there with help and support along the way.
A Shelter or Rescue Group
This is another option that is great if you don't care what breed of rabbit you get. Generally, this option works out very well for pet owners, because you'll recieve a healthy rabbit that has been handled and played with daily. Like a reputable breeder, rescues are often very helpful and always encourage you to come back with questions, concerns, and updates of your new bun. Rescues often have specific ideas about the housing and care of your new rabbit, so it is usually a great place to learn.
A plus to adopting is that usually there is a spay/neuter included in the adoption fee, so that can be nice!
Pet Store
I do not at all support or encourage the purchase of rabbits from pet stores. Most of the time, they sell rabbits WAY to young, overcharge for mixed breed animals, do not take proper care of the rabbits (therefore, selling unhealthy rabbits), and do not have any backround information on the animals in question. Of course, this is just a general statement, and I'm sure there are good pet stores out there...but I've personally never come across one that I was a huge fan of. There are more advantages to getting a rabbit from a reputable breeder or rescue organization where you know the rabbit is healthy, happy, and you will not be over-charged.
A Friend
Everyone has been in this situation; a co-worker's rabbit unexpectedly had a litter of puppies, kittens, or bunnies, and "do you want one?" This can be a good option because you're most likely saving the animal from ending up in a shelter. However, again, you don't know the backround information of the rabbit so health problems could easily arise in the future.
If a free rabbit is offered to you by a friend and all you're looking for is a pet, this option is great. But if you're looking to breed or show, steer clear of these "backyard breeders".
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