Barb Horse

by Lisa Selvaggio

August 6th, 2016 12:00 AM

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About Barb Horse

Weight

900-1,000 lb

Physique

Medium build, muscular

Lifespan

20-25 years

Best Suited For

All levels of horse owners, trainers, and riders

Temperament

Eager to learn, gentle, docile, and willing

Comparable Breeds

Arabian Horse, Thoroughbred Horse

Height

Barb Horse Breed History

It is believed that the Barb Horse, which is also known as the Berber Horse, originated from northern Africa’s coastal region, which used to be referred to as the Barbary Coast.

There is also a bit of controversy surrounding whether Arabian horses and Barb horses share a single common ancestor, or if the Arabian is a predecessor of Barb horses. In fact, when the Barb Horse arrived in Europe, the breed was initially mistaken for the Arabian Horse, even though barb horses didn’t really share any of the physical characteristics of the Arabian, aside from being similar in size.

Barb horses are ideal for general riding.

Berber invaders in the early part of the 8th century ended up taking their horses into Europe. There, they bred their horses with Spanish horses and developed the Andalusian Horse.

The Barb breed became highly valued throughout Europe after the 14th century. Noble families there had large racing stables. Meanwhile, in England, the breed was utilized to develop the beloved Thoroughbred for horse racing.

Like the Arabian Horse, the Barb Horse likely has had a lot of influence on racing equine breeds. It is believed that this breed probably had more influence on racing horses than any other horse breed, but the Barb’s influence could also be seen in several other equine breeds, such as the Appaloosa, the American Quarter Horse, the Mustang, the Paso Fino, and the Argentinian Criollo.

Today, the Barb Horse is primarily bred in Spain, Algeria, southern France, and Morocco. There are also different varieties of the Barb Horse, and these include the Moroccan Barb, Tunisian Barb, Abaco Barb, and Algerian Barb.

Breed Traits

The Barb Horse has a willing personality, so it can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, these animals have been successfully used in both agriculture and the military. They are also ideal horses for general riding, and they can even be used in competitive equine sports.

Barb horses are wonderful to work with because they have an eagerness to learn, which makes them easy to train. They are also gentle and docile in nature, making them a wonderful equine companion for horse owners, riders, and trainers of all levels.

The Barb Horse likely had a lot of influence on racing breeds.

Overall Description

The Barb Horse features a straight or slightly convex profile, and a neck that is slightly arched. You will also notice that these horses showcase flat, upright shoulders.

The front of this horse’s body is powerful, with high withers. Also, the hindquarters are sloping, narrow, and rounded, while the back is medium or short in length.

You will also note that the croup could be slightly angular or rounded. The tail is set low and, like the mane, it is full. This horse also has slender legs that are clean and hardy, and the feet are durable and narrow, while the hooves are round and small.

Barb horses will have ears that are moderate or short in length, and they can be notched at the tip as well. The eyes are expressive, the head will taper towards a small muzzle, and the forehead will be broad.

The gait of the Barb Horse allows it to gallop much like a sprinter. These horses also have a high amount of stamina, and they are able to travel over long distances even when food supplies are limited. The breed’s movement is agile, and it is also resistant to droughts.

Overall, this horse has an appearance that can be described as smooth and balanced. There is depth of body and neck, a distinctly refined head, well-set and clean legs, and roundness of hip that combine to make this an attractive breed.

The Barb Horse has a willing and docile personality.

Colors

Barb horses are usually solid colored, and common colors for this breed include brown, black, sorrel, chestnut, gray, and bay.

The most common color is gray, but shades of buckskin, dun, grullo, and roan are also possible. And the Spanish Barb, in particular, can be found in all equine colors, including tobiano and overo.

Grooming Requirements

Grooming the Barb Horse regularly is a great way to bond with your animal, as well as ensure that it will remain healthy and clean. After all, regular grooming sessions will even help to prevent a variety of skin problems and other conditions, such as thrush.

If your Barb is involved in dressage, you definitely need to spend extra time thoroughly cleaning and smoothing the coat, including the thick mane and tail.

Some of the tools that you should have in your equine grooming kit include a curry comb, a shedding blade, a dandy brush with stiff bristles, a body brush with soft bristles, a hoof pick, a brush specifically for the mane and one for the tail, and a rub rag.

Washing your horse with equine shampoo can thoroughly clean the skin and coat, but be gentle and don’t use too much soap, which can be irritating and drying to the skin and hair. Replenish lost moisture and shine by using an equine conditioner after shampooing.

Photo credit: Berberstute Zafira Al Saïda/Wikimedia; Laurent Nguyen/Wikimedia; Notwist/Wikimedia

Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

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Falabella Miniature Horse

Falabella Miniature Horse Breed History It is believed that the Falabella Miniature Horse of Argentina was a descendant of Spanish Barb and Andalusian horses that were taken to the area by Spaniards in the 15th century when they intended on conquering the country. After they were defeated, their horses were left behind to roam freely, and over the course of several centuries, the horses had to adapt. Inbreeding and having to survive in a new harsh environment resulted in horses that were physically smaller but extremely strong. In the 1840s, the small horses were observed within equine herds by Patrick Newell. He began to create a new herd using the smallest horses that he could find, and selective breeding was then started in order to establish a true small horse breed. Patrick shared what he knew with his son-in-law, Juan Falabella, and then the Falabella family continued to impart their knowledge to future generations. The Falabella Miniature is easy to handle, easy to train, and highly intelligent. Over the course of many years, the Falabella family used a range of equine breeds, including the Argentine Criollo Horse, Appaloosa, and Pinto. They made sure to keep the best and smallest horses within every generation as they sought to create the Falabella Miniature that is beloved today. In fact, some of the smallest horses in the world were bred by Julio Falabella, and these perfect tiny horses were born in all equine colors. It was not until the 1960s that Julio Falabella was ready to send the Falabella Miniature Horse to the United States and other nations. News quickly spread about this new miniature horse breed, which was centuries in the making and resulted from both natural and selective breeding across several generations. As a result, the horses continued to spread around the world as people sought to purchase them. The Falabella Miniature Horse finally became a registered equine breed in the 1970s, with the creation of the Falabella Miniature Horse Association. Today, these horses are still found at the Falabella Farm, located in Argentina, but they are also found throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, the UK, and many other countries. Breed Traits

American Quarter Horse

American Quarter Horse Breed History As one of America’s oldest and most popular equine breeds, the American Quarter Horse is tied to the country’s history. The breed was developed in Colonial America in the early part of the 17th century when the colonists were breeding select horses that were of Barb, Turk, and Arabian descent. These equine breeds had been brought over to the New World previously, and they were later bred with the breeds that were arriving from Ireland and England. As a result of the mixing of English equine breeds with Spanish equine breeds, a compact horse featuring a strong and muscular body was created. This horse was favored for races over short distances of a quarter mile, as well as for farm related work. The English colonists started calling the animals “Celebrated American Quarter Running Horses,” and they introduced Thoroughbred blood into the breed later on as well. The American Quarter Horse is known for having a pleasant personality. When the American pioneers continued to move further west throughout the 1800s, the American Quarter Horse became even more valuable because it was found to have a cow sense. In other words, these horses were able to outmaneuver cattle, so they also became assets on cattle ranches that were developing across the plains. The American Quarter Horse Association was created in 1940, and that was when the breed was given its official name. Today, the Quarter Horse breed is still one of the most popular in the world. Breed Traits

Boulonnais Horse

Boulonnais Horse Breed History Considered the most elegant of all of the equine draft breeds, the Boulonnais Horse is also referred to as the White Marble Horse. And its origins date back to a time before the Crusades, so this breed has been around for a long time. In fact, according to some experts, these horses are from the Boulogne District in France, and you can trace them all the way back to the animals that were left behind by the cavalry of Julius Caesar prior to invading England. Over time, the Boulonnais horse was bred with several other equine breeds in order to refine it. And this breed has also been used to develop other draft breeds as well. For example, during the 17th century, Andalusian, Arabian, and Spanish Barb horses were bred with the Boulonnais. The Boulonnais has a social and docile personality. Also, originally, this breed had several types as well. For example, the Petit Boulonnais, or Mareyeur, was smaller, coming in at around 15 hands tall, and it was typically used to transport fresh fish. The Picard type was referred to as the “horse of the bad land,” while the Cauchoix horse was referred to as the “horse of the good land.” Finally, the Grand Boulonnais, which could reach 16 hands in height, was bred for working on farms. Over time, the types were bred together and led to the modern type we know today. Boulonnais horses were exported to the United States in the early part of the 1900s, but these animals nearly went extinct in Europe as a result of the wars of the 20th century, and particularly after World War II. Thankfully, the breed was able to make a bit of a comeback in the 1970s in France, but it was because the animals were being used for meat. Today, there aren’t that many Boulonnais horses alive anymore, and the majority of them are found in France. Breed Traits

Mustang Horse

Mustang Horse Breed History Wild horses that roamed throughout North America went extinct almost 10,000 years ago, likely as a result of overhunting. It was not until the famous Spanish Conquistador, Hernando Cortes, reintroduced horses to the continent that they began to roam freely again. In fact, during campaigns led by the Spanish in the New World, horses were often lost or would escape and became stray animals. Those horses would become known as the Mustang Horse. The American Mustang, which is now known as “The Symbol of the American West,” derived its name from the Mexican word “mestengo,” which is derived from “mesteño,” the Spanish term for “feral” or “stray.” The American Mustang is also known as “The Symbol of the American West.” For almost two centuries, the wild horse population in North America was encouraged by the Spanish government, which would ship horses with the specific purpose to release them into the wild. This was done in order to deter Native Americans from stealing the horses of the Spanish settlers. Over 10,000 of these horses were released, and they spread throughout the west from the Rio Grande area. As they spread, they bred with other feral horses to create the Mustang Horse. Mustangs are a mix of the Andalusian, Arabian, and Barb horse breeds, and Native Americans were quick to adopt these horses in order to use them to hunt, to fight in battles, and to be easily transported from place to place. The animals were even used as bartering items. Americans also tried to improve the Mustang Horse during their migration to the west in the 1800s. Western ranchers would allow their horses to freely forage, and then they would end up taking in Mustangs that would join their own groups of horses. It was not until 1962 that the American Mustang Association, also known as the AMA, was created to serve as the registry for the American Mustang in San Diego, California. Today, a horse has to conform to the AMA’s physical size and proportions standards, regardless of whether the ancestry or bloodline is pure. Breed Traits

Palomino Horse

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Best Horses for Heavy Riders

Contrary to popular belief, heavy-set riders can enjoy riding horses without any issues. Sure, some mounts cannot bear the extra weight and might end up hurt, but not all horses are equal. While no horse can safely support excessive weight on their back, some breeds that excel in hard work thanks to their strength and stature can be a good choice for plus-size riders. Thanks to their unique traits, they are ideal mounts for heavy riders, as they will maintain their balance under the added weight, and won’t lose stamina or endurance. So, if you are of a heavier build, here are which breeds you need to consider. Read on as we discover the world of strong and stout horses, and the prerequisites for riding one – here’s our list of the 10 best horses for heavy riders.

French Boodle

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Westiepoo

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Simple Homemade Beef Stew Recipe For Dogs

The meat and veggies combo in this beef stew is always a hit with dogs and using wholesome, healthy ingredients to make their meal improves the flavor by far.Your dog needs a break from dry kibble now and then. No matter how much your pooch loves the crunchy yummies, they’re bound to get fed up with it. Hey, you’d get tired of eating the same meal day in, day out. That’s why adding a tasty topper to your dog’s usual grub or switching one whole meal from the menu can be a good idea. A change of pace can be just what your pooch needs, and cooking something nice for your pet will certainly be something for you to enjoy. This beef stew for dogs is easy to make, costs next to nothing, and won’t have you slaving away in the kitchen. To boot, you can double (or triple) the recipe and make portions ahead for the freezer. Next time when you feel like treating your pooch to a hearty homemade meal, just pop it out and defrost- bon pawpetit!Of course, while homemade food is a tasty, healthy treat but you shouldn’t overdo it. Pet obesity is a serious issue that some even call an epidemic- gaining excess weight can lead your pet straight to a myriad of health issues. This beef stew should be doled out from time to time, especially if used as a topper for kibble. Too much indulging in yummy foods can only be counterproductive in the long run, so stick to recommended portion sizes. In case you are looking to make a switch to cooking for your dog instead of feeding them kibble, this yummy recipe can be a great way to “test the waters” and see how your pet likes the switch. Needless to say, you should consult a vet first if you plan on doing a homemade-only diet, to avoid any risk of nutritional deficiencies.This recipe is a fave with our furry taste testers, so we don’t doubt your pooch will go bonkers for it, too. The meat and veggies combo in this beef stew is always a hit with dogs and using wholesome, healthy ingredients to make their meal improves the flavor by far.Simple Homemade Beef Stew For DogsIngredients:16 oz stewing beef3 medium potatoes3 medium carrots2 celery sticks2 pints (4 cups) chicken stock2 tbsps. vegetable oilDirections:Peel the potatoes and cut into small pieces. Chop up the two celery sticks. Peel carrots and chop into small pieces. The size of the pieces should be bite-size, but the veggies should soften additionally during the cooking, so don’t worry if your pieces are a bit chunky.Brown the meat by adding two tbsps. of oil into your large saucepan or pot and all of the beef. Cook the beef on medium-high heat until it is brown on all sides.Once the beef is brown, add chicken stock and bring to boil. It would be ideal if you have homemade chicken stock to make sure it’s free of unnecessary additives. Cover with the lid slightly ajar and leave to simmer for 45 minutes.Add the vegetables to the pan. Replace the lid (slightly ajar) and let simmer for another 45 minutes. If you want a thicker stew, remove the lid completely after 30 minutes.Take the pan off the heat and let cool for a few minutes. Serve to your happy and hungry dog- with or without kibble for garnish.Cooking for your dog can be a rewarding experience. You get to decide what exactly goes into their dish without having to worry about hidden harmful ingredients lurking in their food. Organic, natural, homegrown- it’s your choice of ingredients, but make sure it’s all fresh. Lastly, while this beef stew contains no problematic ingredients and uses only dog-safe foods for preparation, if your dog is unused to cooked food, he might have a slight stomach reaction. But I guess a few farts is something every pet parent can deal with, right?What if My Dog is Allergic to Beef? If you have a dog that is allergic to beef, you can still follow this recipe with one important substitution. In place of ground beef, choose another pet-friendly ground meat. Some popular options include ground chicken, pork, or ground turkey (white or dark meat). For dog parents that are currently focusing on a novel protein, you can also substitute some of the rarer meat options in place of beef, like alligator or bear. Follow the rest of the recipe like normal. Benefits of Carrots for Dogs Not only do carrots add a little color and flavor to your homemade dog food, but they are also incredibly healthy. These orange, crunchy vegetables are high in vitamin A, which is where they earned their reputation as a superfood. Vitamin A supports eye health, helping to prevent the development of vision problems like night blindness. This is why so many of us were regularly told to eat our carrots as children. But your dog’s eyes aren’t the only thing that will benefit from including carrots in this recipe. Other nutrients provided by carrots include vitamins B, C, D, E and K, potassium, calcium, phosphorous, niacin, magnesium, and fiber. They help to support healthy bone development, improve digestive health, protect the body against free radicals, and prevent the development of disease and infections. Some experts even credit carrots with helping to reduce the risk of cancer. The best part about carrots? They are low in calories. This means that your dog can enjoy these benefits even if they are on a diet! We love easy recipes and we bet you do too! Give this one a try and let us know how it turns out. As well, if you have any recipes for dogs you’d like to share, please send it to us. You can get email it to us using the contact page.

Top 10 Best Military Dog Breeds

Think you know your enlisted K-9s? Well, think again. You’ll be surprised with some of the picks on our military dog breeds list. Especially number 10!.If you’re anything like me, the moment you think “military dog” you envision a German Shepherd Dog or Doberman patrolling a barbed wire fence and barking fiercely when confronted by the enemy. It’s an image that we've seen so many times in movies and television shows. But as always, you can’t trust Hollywood for accuracy. Those are far from the only breeds of pup who have used in military service and just one of the many roles assigned to the enlisted K-9s and military dog breeds. When you dig into the history, it’s amazing what a wide range of pups have performed a wide range of tasks in military service. From large to small, muscular and burly, doggos went above and beyond the call of duty to fulfill the missions they were tasked with. There is no surprise here – dogs are known as loyal and brave companions, even in war. So what are the jobs typically assigned to our favourite furry friends by the military? Well, there are many and often those jobs require completely opposite tasks and behaviours. While Sentry dogs are taught to walk alongside their guard or handler and warn by growling or barking at approaching strangers, a Scout dog is trained to work silently so that they can detect and alert their handler to snipers, enemy presence, and ambushes. A Messenger dog carries information between handlers, while Mine Dogs are trained to detect both metallic and non-metallic land-mines as well as booby traps and trip wires. Casualty dogs are your war-time version of a search and rescue pooch who can quickly locate injured soldiers. While Tunnel dogs have been used to explore the confines of underground spaces to seek out enemy forces and alert handlers. Finally, Explosives Detection dogs have been specifically trained to pick up on the scent of the chemicals used in bombs and alert their handler when those odours hit their little pup noses.As you can see, there are quite a wide range of tasks for military service dogs these days. That requires a wide variety of breeds who can deliver on those tasks. Since the military has been training dogs for decades, they have experimented with a wide variety of breeds and come up with quite a list of powerful pups who are up to the tasks. So, who are the top dogs when it comes to military duty past and present? Keep your eyeballs glued to this page to find out. (Photo credit: Africa Studio/Shutterstock) German Shepherd Dog

Black Mouth Cur

Black Mouth Cur BasicsNot everyone wants a tiny little pup that they can fit in their pocket. That’s great for many dog owners, but some want something different. Some want a dog that feels more like a roommate. A dog that makes their presence known just by walking into a room. A dog that will fit into a passenger seat of your car more easily than your handbag. A dog that sometimes feels like he’s taking you for a walk. If you are in the market for a rugged and strongly muscled working dog, then look no further than the Black Mouth Cur. This breed is a medium-to-large sized dog that is named after the black coloration on its muzzle. This is a serious dog for serious dog owners.Black Mouth Curs are often referred to as “multitalented” dogs because they can be trained for a variety of tasks including hunting, herding, and general utility. Yet, they aren’t just dogs who are bred to work. Black Mouth Curs also make great family pets! This attractive and intelligent breed is an excellent option for families with or without children because they form very strong bonds with their humans and they respond well to training. Even so, these energetic and driven dogs are not a good choice for first-time dog owners, as they need a firm hand and someone who can keep up with their zest. This is a dog for those who are serious about their pets and will make their Black Mouth Cur the latest addition to their pawesome family.If you are looking for a rugged, strongly muscled working dog then look no further than the Black Mouth Cur.OriginThe exact origins of the Black Mouth Cur are unknown, but it is thought to have been developed from various ancient European and Asian cur-type dogs. What is known is that the breed was developed in the Southern United States as an all-purpose farm dog and that the breed has become fairly widespread since the 19th century. These pups have a long and rich history as working dogs on farms and they serve their masters well. While some believe the term “cur” implies a mixed breed dog, the Black Mouth Cur is actually purebred. Some of the breeds from which the Black Mouth Cur may have been developed include the Southern Black Mouth Cur originating in Alabama, the Foundation Black Mouth Cur from Texas, and the Ladner Yellow Black Mouth Cur that came from Mississippi. There is a rich history to this beloved animal.Pedigree

10 Best Indoor Rabbits

Most, if not all, pet rabbits are kept indoors. The majority of pet rabbit breeds we’ve come to cherish as our companions are vulnerable to the outside life: they are prey to bigger and predatory animals and extreme cold or warmth can endanger them. This is why keeping your bunny in an appropriate indoor enclosure, with plenty of safe time outside of it, is the best practice. It keeps your pet safe and comfortable, and also helps you build a true bond with you. When your rabbit is close to you and spends all of their time in your presence, they will grow to be more social and relaxed around you, allowing them to express their affectionate side and allow you to pet and handle them.If you are planning to keep a rabbit as an indoor pet, there are a few factors to consider. From the space they require to their breed characteristics, you’ll have to choose carefully to make sure your pet will thrive in your care – and that you’ll get to fully enjoy their companionship. We’ve selected the 10 best indoor rabbits to make sure any owner can find a perfect match – read on to learn more about these pet bunnies.

Domestic Medium Hair

Domestic Medium Hair Breed HistoryLike the Domestic Longhair and the Domestic Shorthair, the Domestic Medium Hair is not a single, recognized breed. Rather, these cats are referred to as mutts because they are mixed breed felines that can have the looks and characteristics of a combination of different breeds. And because these cats are commonly found in shelters and feral colonies throughout the world today, they are one of the most popular and beloved breeds.In terms of their history, it’s believed that these cats first arrived in America with the Pilgrims, who decided to bring them along on their ships in order to help control the rodent population. Many generations of mixed breeding among these felines created the Domestic Medium Hairs that are found in cat loving homes around the world.However, as mentioned above, the thing to keep in mind is that a Domestic Medium Hair isn’t actually a specific feline breed. Basically, whether you are looking at a Domestic Shorthair, a Domestic Medium Hair, and a Domestic Longhair, you are looking at kitties from the same “breed.” And when they have kittens, these cats can showcase every length of fur, so this means that a Domestic Medium Hair could give birth to kittens that have long fur or short fur.  So, what makes the Domestic Medium Hair special and what sets them apart? Well, the main difference between the Domestic Medium Hair, the  Domestic Longhair, and the  Domestic Shorthair is the fact that the Medium Hair has a – you guessed it – medium coat gene that produces its rarer, distinctive fur that’s somewhere between the length of short and long. But, because these cats are related, if you have experience with the Longhair or Shorthair, you will have a really good idea of what a Medium Hair cat will be like.Breed Traits

Cavapoo

Cavapoo BasicsWho says you can’t have it all. Looks and brains in one delightful package? That’s Cavapoo for ya! The silkiest and smartest pooch on the block, the Cavapoo wins over pet owners with his combination of good looks and a lovely temperament. This mixed breed dog comes from a unique background and makes an excellent companion and a family pet, so it’s no wonder that these guys rank as one of the most popular designer dog breeds. As a hybrid, Cavapoo comes from two purebred parents- the Poodle (miniature or toy) and the Cavalier Kings Charles Spaniel. Cavapoos represent everything designer dogs are about: the best of both parents in one adorable pooch. If you’ve been considering diving into the exciting world of designers dogs, there’s no better place to start that with this little beauty.There are so many reasons why this incredible pup has become so beloved. The low-shedding Cavapoo is a great companion dog whose small stature makes him a perfect fit for apartment dwellers, seniors, and singles who like to include their pooch in all things social. A gentle nature means this indoor dog is a terrific family pet that does well with older kids who can be taught to appreciate his smaller size. To find out more about these gorgeous dogs, read on! You might be surprised by just how many reasons there are to bring this perfect pooch into your home.The low-shedding Cavapoo is a great companion dog.Origin As you might have discovered on your own by now, designer dogs don’t exactly have a long history. Sure, mixed breed dogs have always been around, but people started intentionally producing them only recently. It’s a new trend, but one that isn’t going away any time soon. By crossbreeding purebred dogs, they were hoping to create new hybrid breeds that would offer prized traits of both parents, often even improved. The Cavapoo (or the Cavoodle as some call it) is one of the first breeds that were created when the designer dog trend kicked off. The first litters of Cavalier Kings Charles Spaniel and Poodle mix puppies were born in Australia, in the 1990s. Of course, while the breed originated in Australia, it didn’t take long for these hybrids to gain popularity in the United Kingdom and the United States, as well. Beyond those basics, there isn’t much known about the histories of these delightful doggos because designer dogs simply aren’t taken as seriously as pure breeds. Obviously, that’s starting to change. But for now, there remains a certain basis against hybrid dogs within the industry.Pedigree

Koolie

Koolie BasicsWhen you see the Koolie for the first time, you may think that you are looking at an Australian Cattle Dog. The breed is, in fact, an Australian breed but it is actually the other way around – the breed played a role in the development of the Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Blue Heeler. Interestingly, however, the breed is sometimes misrepresented as a German breed because it is also known as the German Koolie.Koolies played a role in the development of the Australian Cattle Dog.OriginThe Koolie is also known as the German Koolie because the predecessors of the breed were brought to Australia by early German settlers. The German Koolie was used as an all-purpose working breed until the 1800s when one of them accidentally mated with a Dingo, the wild dog of Australia. The result of this mating was a short-coated working breed ideally suited to the hot climate in the Australian outback. The breed rapidly gained popularity after that point and was used to develop other Australian working breeds like the Australian Kelpie and the Australian Cattle Dog.Pedigree

Mini Rex Rabbit

When seeking out a rabbit, most people will merely get whatever is available. This is a mistake. Like any other popular pet, there are a variety of rabbits out there with a variety of qualities. Not every rabbit is the right choice for every home. So how will you be able to spot the all-star rabbits from the bargain basement bunnies? Well, fortunately you’ve come to the right place. We’ve been taking a look at the finest rabbits out there, breed by breed. To day we explore the qualities of the Mini Rex Rabbit. Is this the right rabbit to bring into your family? Keep your eyeballs glued to this page and scroll on to find out. Mini Rex Rabbit Breed History/Origin The Rex fur gene in rabbits was first discovered in 1900s France. Soon after that, these types of rabbits were being bred all over the world. Their popularity exploded. You might even say that they bred like rabbits (please excuse the pun, it was irresistible). The ARBA recognized the original Rex Rabbit breed- these bunnies weigh about 9 lbs, but demand grew for a smaller version. As a result, the Mini Rex Rabbit was born. A rabbit that crammed all of the beloved qualities of the Rex into a tiny little furball. The Mini Rex breed was first developed by Monna R. Berryhill of Texas, who bred a black Dwarf Rex buck and a undersized Lynx Red doe. The litter produced seven kits, marking the first of the new breed. In 1986, Berryhill introduced the Mini Rex Rabbit, and the American Rabbit Breeders’ Association (ARBA) recognized it as a new breed of rabbit. Every since then, the Mini Rex has been a favourite pet of rabbit lovers everywhere. The Mini Rex rabbit is a popular breed for families looking for a first-time pet for their children. Overall Description The Mini Rex might be the pet that finally proves once and for all that size doesn’t matter. The diminutive size of these bunnies didn’t diminish their beauty. In fact, it’s quite the opposite! Rex rabbits are known for their well-proportioned physique, luxurious coat, and overall charming appearance. The miniature size of The Mini Rex rabbit only increases their appeal. It’s everything that everyone loves about the Rex packed into a tiny package that is even more adorable in every conceivable way. At half the size of the standard Rex, these rabbits weigh between 3 and 4.5 pounds when fully mature. The does (females) are bigger than the bucks (males). The Mini Rex Rabbit has a compact body type. Their backs are rounded, with well-developed shoulders, hindquarters, and midsection. The body is well-filled, the depth and width of it in balance. Legs are straight and rather short. When it comes to the head, it should be relatively close to to the shoulders, with a short neck, giving these bunnies an ever more compact appearance. The ears are thick and upright- their maximum length is 3.5 inches. A gorgeous physique that can only be described as a mini masterpiece of rabbit design. Coat

Top 10 Essential Books for New Cat Owners

If you’re a first-time cat parent, you may be overwhelmed with all the things you need to know about your kitty. These books are great resources for new or nearly new cat owners.

Great Danoodle

Great Danoodle Basics The Great Danoodle is also referred to as the Great Danedoodle, Danedoodle, Great Danepoo, and Danepoo. This is the perfect dog for families that are seeking a larger canine to walk beside them, protect them, and love them forever. To learn more about this devoted and loving breed, and to find out if this dog would be the perfect addition to your family, keep reading to learn all about it. The Great Danoodle is a cross between a purebred Great Dane and Poodle. Origin

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