Like with anything, in the rabbit hobby there are certain rules that we all should just follow. It's the polite thing to do. Unfortunately, many well-meaning people have no idea what these rules are, and unintentionally annoy or upset other people from just not understanding. In an effort to spare you that pain, here are my top 10 unspoken etiquette rules in the rabbit hobby:
1. If you show a rabbit that you didn't breed, it wins something, and you post a picture, do NOT claim credit for the win. ALWAYS mention who the breeder of the rabbit was, and thank them, even if they aren't on the same social media platform.
2. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Find appropriate times to ask them, when exhibitors/judges etc. aren't super busy and flustered. If you have a good attitude, are eager to learn, and follow their advice, most people would be happy to help you.
3. Don't change the name of a rabbit you bought as a show or brood animal, and don't EVER change the herd name.
4. Don't talk badly about other people. No matter what they did to you, take a deep breath and move on. It's the mature thing to do, and it will make you more friends in the long run.
5. Thank the judge after each and every competition.
6. Don't critique pictures of other people's rabbits on social media, unless they specifically asked for opinions. It's just rude. Even if there's something glaringly obvious to you. Even if you say some positive things as well. It's still unasked for.
7. Don't talk over the judge during a show. It's rude and disrespectful, plus, the other exhibitors want to listen to the judge's comments. Also, don't EVER indicate to the judge which rabbit is yours.
8. Be nice to youth. Even if you think they're annoying. They're looking to you as an example of how they should behave and treat others. Teach by good example.
9. If someone else takes a picture of your rabbit for you, always give credit to them.
10. Congratulate the winners of the competition, even if you feel they don't deserve it. The point isn't whether they deserved it or not, the point is to be nice.
What are some other important etiquette rules? Tell us below in the comments section!
1. If you show a rabbit that you didn't breed, it wins something, and you post a picture, do NOT claim credit for the win. ALWAYS mention who the breeder of the rabbit was, and thank them, even if they aren't on the same social media platform.
2. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Find appropriate times to ask them, when exhibitors/judges etc. aren't super busy and flustered. If you have a good attitude, are eager to learn, and follow their advice, most people would be happy to help you.
3. Don't change the name of a rabbit you bought as a show or brood animal, and don't EVER change the herd name.
4. Don't talk badly about other people. No matter what they did to you, take a deep breath and move on. It's the mature thing to do, and it will make you more friends in the long run.
5. Thank the judge after each and every competition.
6. Don't critique pictures of other people's rabbits on social media, unless they specifically asked for opinions. It's just rude. Even if there's something glaringly obvious to you. Even if you say some positive things as well. It's still unasked for.
7. Don't talk over the judge during a show. It's rude and disrespectful, plus, the other exhibitors want to listen to the judge's comments. Also, don't EVER indicate to the judge which rabbit is yours.
8. Be nice to youth. Even if you think they're annoying. They're looking to you as an example of how they should behave and treat others. Teach by good example.
9. If someone else takes a picture of your rabbit for you, always give credit to them.
10. Congratulate the winners of the competition, even if you feel they don't deserve it. The point isn't whether they deserved it or not, the point is to be nice.
What are some other important etiquette rules? Tell us below in the comments section!