THE FLEMISH GIANT RABBIT 73 



be guarded against in purchasing or breeding, but in this 

 they are desirable, more especially in the does ; but they 

 should be full and uniform in shape, forming a cushion for 

 the chin to rest on, and give a complacent, comfortable 

 appearance to the animals when at rest. 



The head should be large and roomy, rather than 

 wedge-like in shape. 



The ears six to seven inches long, fairly thick, and 

 carried erect. 



The body large and long, very wide and massive 

 across the hind quarters, which should be very capacious. 



Legs and feet should have attention, as it is important 

 they should be straight as well as strong, and too much 

 forcing of young stock has a tendency to throw out 

 the fore legs particularly, which is much against any 

 intended for exhibition. 



Any white on face, nose, ears or feet is most objec- 

 tionable from a fancier's point of view, but of course none 

 of these objections will apply to those selected for table 

 use. 



The eyes should be large, bright in expression and 

 round in shape. 



The does are very prolific, and not seldom have litters 

 of seven and nine. It is well, if the object is to breed 

 specimens for show, not to leave more than three or four 

 on the does, putting the others in the care of a foster 

 mother, of course keeping with the doe those most pro- 

 mising in shape and evenness of colour. 



At all times, whether young or old, it is best not to 

 lift specimens by the ears, they are often spoiled in shape 



