Why does my bunny thump at my dad?

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This topic has 3sd replies, 4 voices, and was last updated 6 years, 9 months ago by Bam.

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- 02/20/2018 at 8:23 PM
  Jillian
  Participant
  1 posts
  My family (me, my mom, and my dad) have had our 2 male bunnies now for almost two years. They are both sweet to my mom and I but one of them, Gino, seems to hate my dad. Gino always thumps at him or just turns his back on him. My dad is so nice to both of them, and the other bunny has no problem with my dad, so I don’t know what could be the issue. I thought it might be a “dominance” thing since my bunny is male and he is the Alpha rabbit (maybe Gino is just a ladies man lol?) but Gino is nice to my boyfriend who watches the bunnies when we are on vacation.
  
  Anyone know why this might be? Or how my dad can improve his relationship with Gino?
- 02/20/2018 at 9:04 PM
  Wick & Fable
  Moderator
  5813 posts
  Thumping is a signal that a rabbit senses danger. Whether it be rational or irrational, it seems your baby has decided your dad is a source of danger. I recommend some one on one bonding time. Perhaps put him in a large enclosed area where your dad just lays there so your rabbit has time to scope out your dad. Maybe one of you can also be there passively for security measure.
  
  The answers provided in this discussion are for general guideline purposes only. The information is not intended to diagnose or treat your pet. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or a qualified behaviorist.
- 02/21/2018 at 3:14 AM
  Deleted User
  Participant
  22064 posts
  I did read once that rabbits can be more intimidated around male humans, due to their size and deep vocal. But of course I don’t think this is the case in all situations. My dad also had the same effect on my bunnies when i lived at home. Maybe if your dad spends more time laying nest to your bunny so he appears smaller.
- 02/21/2018 at 3:32 AM
  Bam
  Moderator
  16964 posts
  I think Emma makes a good point. Males can be scarier both for dogs and buns. They’re bigger and have darker voices. It has been shown in studies that dogs respond more favorably to childlike/female-like voices. I recently watched a documentary about sleighdogs in Greenland, when the drivers wanted to praise the dogs they did so in a high pitched voice. Dogs are not bunnies of course, but they do hear very well =)
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