Rabbits in General

Question
Hi Brenda:

I'm thinking about getting a rabbit for a pet.  I've been considering a Netherland Dwarf.  I think that's the name. Anyway, he's a buck that is about 4 months old.  

As a kid I had rabbits and we always kept them on the side of the house.  We would have a whole section cleared just for them.  They had plenty of space to hop around, etc.  Currently I live in an apartment.  So, a new rabbit will live mostly in a cage.  I was wondering how much outside time they need?  What size cage should I get?  Do you think does or bucks are more friendly?  I know a lot of it just depends on the particular rabbit.  But, sometimes females and males have different traits.

Oh, by the way I would be getting the rabbit from a farm here that breeds and shows rabbits.  She stated that her rabbits are handled daily and so they are used to people.  The reason she is selling this guy is because he isn't "show" quality.

I've read on the internet different things about the Netherland Dwarf.  Some say that they are mean tempered and some say they are great pets.

Any information you can give me would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks so much!

Kim

Answer
I, personally, have never like the Netherland Dwarf breed.  They are often mean and nasty in temperment and are always unpredictable.  They need to be handled constantly in order to stay in their good graces.  That being said, some are OK to have.  

Most of my rabbits are caged 24/7/365 and tolerate it just fine.  It is all in what they are used to.  As far as gender related traits, I haven't noticed any distinguishing factors in rabbits except that bucks tend to spray like a tom cat at times.  For the netherland a 24"X24" cage is OK, but bigger could be better if you wanted a bigger one.

Consider other breeds -- the mini rex is a super pet quality rabbit with a wonderful plus of luxurious fur.

Hope this helps.  Brenda