Description: Beveren
The Beveren rabbit is one of the oldest and largest of the fur breeds. Originating in the town of Beveren, Belgium, around the early 20th century, this breed is known for its luxurious blue fur, although other colors like black, white, and brown are also recognized. Beveren rabbits are prized for their dense, silky fur and their calm, friendly temperament, making them excellent pets as well as show animals. They are active and enjoy spacious environments where they can hop and explore. The breed is also known for its robust health and good reproductive capabilities, characteristics that make them a favorite among breeders and domestic pet owners alike.
Properties
The Beveren rabbit is a historical breed that has been cherished for over a century, known initially for originating from the town of Beveren in Belgium around the early 20th century. This breed was originally developed for both its fur and meat, making it an integral part of rabbit industries in various European countries, and later spreading its popularity across the globe.
One of the most striking features of the Beveren is its luxurious, dense coat that can come in a variety of colors. The most common colors include blue, white (often with blue or pink eyes), and black, though other color variations such as brown and lilac have been reported. The fur is dense and glossy, giving the breed a regal appearance that distinguished it in rabbit shows and fur markets alike.
The Beveren is not only praised for its physical attributes but also for its behavior and temperament. This breed is known for being particularly friendly and easygoing, making it a favorite among rabbit enthusiasts for both show and as a pet. Their gentle and approachable nature also makes them an excellent choice for families with children or for first-time rabbit owners. Despite their larger size, Beverens are relatively easy to handle due to their calm demeanor.
In terms of size, Beverens are a large breed, with mature adults typically weighing between 8 to 12 pounds. Their body is robust and muscular, reflecting their utility origins, but it is also graceful, which enhances their appeal in rabbit shows. The breed matures relatively quickly, reaching full size about 8 to 10 months of age, which made them highly favored in commercial breeding for meat and fur.
Care for Beverens involves regular grooming due to their thick fur. They require a spacious environment given their size, so adequate housing is essential to ensure they remain healthy and active. Their diet, like most rabbits, should consist primarily of hay, supplemented with fresh vegetables, a small amount of pellets, and clean water. Regular veterinary care is recommended to prevent common rabbit ailments and to maintain their overall well-being.
Overall, the Beveren rabbit is a multi-dimensional breed celebrated not only for its aesthetic qualities and utility but also for its endearing personality, making it a well-rounded companion, show animal, and a historical breed with a venerable legacy in the rabbit world.
Appearance
The Beveren rabbit is a distinct and eye-catching breed known for its large, robust size and luxurious fur. Originating in the town of Beveren, Belgium, around the early 20th century, this breed is celebrated for its striking appearance and friendly disposition. The breed has retained a faithful following among rabbit enthusiasts who appreciate its unique qualities and historical significance.
One of the most remarkable features of the Beveren is its dense, glossy coat which comes mainly in three color varieties: blue, white, and black. The blue Beveren, with its rich, even blue color throughout, is particularly renowned and often associated with the image of the breed. The white variety has a pure, snow-white coat with ruby or blue eyes, making it quite striking. Black Beverens, though less common, display a deep, jet black that shines brilliantly under light. The fur is medium in length but exceptionally dense and silky, making the rabbit very soft to the touch.
Beverens are large rabbits, typically weighing between 8 to 12 pounds (3.6 to 5.4 kg), which places them in the category of larger rabbit breeds. Their body is well-muscled and well-rounded, exhibiting a mandolin shape which is characterized by a broad back and a slightly curved top line starting from the neck to the base of the tail. This robust physique makes them formidable and sturdy.
Aside from their physical attributes, Beverens are equally known for their calm and friendly temperament. They are gentle and approachable, which makes them excellent pets and a favorite in rabbit shows. They are also quite active and playful, and their intelligence levels make them easy to train for various rabbit competitions and domestic activities.
The breed's ears are another distinctive trait, standing erect and measuring from 4 to 5 inches long, framed with thick, plush fur. The Beveren’s face is broad with bright, alert eyes expressing a keen intelligence and curiosity about their surroundings. This combination of features - the opulent fur, the striking color, the commanding size, and the pleasant demeanor - makes the Beveren not just a pet but a show-worthy companion bringing elegance and joy to any setting.
History
The Beveren rabbit, one of the older breeds of domestic rabbits, has a captivating history that traces its origins back to the early 20th century in the town of Beveren, Belgium. Developed for both its fur and meat, the Beveren was originally bred to be a utility rabbit, meaning it was raised for practical purposes rather than show or pet qualities.
The journey of the Beveren rabbit began around 1898, initiated by a Belgian breeder named Van Ceulebroeck. The breed's development is often attributed to the meticulous selection and cross-breeding with various rabbits, including the Blue Vienna, Blue Imperial, and St. Nicholas Blue. The desired outcome was to produce a rabbit that was larger and had a unique blue coat, a trait that became a distinctive characteristic of the Beveren.
By 1919, the Beveren was officially recognized as a breed in the UK, marking its international acknowledgment. The breed's fame spread across Europe and eventually to the United States where it gained significant popularity. The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) officially recognized the breed in 1924, which further helped in establishing the Beveren as a significant presence in the rabbit breeding community.
In terms of physical characteristics, the Beveren is known for its semi-arch type body which gives it a unique stance, combined with a luxurious, silky fur that can come in several colors. The most iconic is the blue, but other recognized variations include black, white, and occasionally brown. The breed is appreciated for its calm nature and friendly disposition, making it not only valuable for breeders but also as pets.
Throughout the years, the Beveren rabbit has faced fluctuations in popularity, often overshadowed by other breeds. However, its contributions to the fancy (show) and meat rabbit industries cannot be understated. Dedicated breeders have made efforts to preserve the breed's characteristics, focusing on its heritage and utility virtues. Today, the Beveren remains a beloved choice for its historical significance, distinct appearance, and gentle temperament, although it is considered relatively rare in comparison to more prevalent rabbit breeds.
The historical journey of the Beveren rabbit is one rich with dedication from breeders to maintain and promote the breed's unique qualities. It stands as a testament to the ingenuity of early rabbit breeders and remains a living piece of rabbit breed history.