Dumbo Rats Australia

Dumbo Rats are a variation among the fancy rat species where the differentiation is based on the body type. Although the entire body is almost the same as a normal fancy rat, there is a difference in terms of the ear and its positioning. Dumbo rats are available at all pet stores although it is advisable to approach a professional breeder if you are looking for one for your home.

Dumbo rats are called so due to their larger set of ears that are placed on the side of their heads rather than above it as in the case of normal rats. Their name is derived from the cartoon elephant character 'Dumbo - the Flying Elephant' as it also has large ears that enable it to fly. No the chances of your rat flying off are quite bleak however, they are cuddly creatures and you may end up falling in love with them just as much.

Dumbo rats may be of any recognizable colour, marking or variety to be termed as a Dumbo rat. The only feature that matters in their case is their ears. Besides their ears, their body type is a little plumper as compared to normal rats, another feature that brings out a comparison with 'Dumbo - the Flying Elephant'.

The positioning of the ears is such that when viewed from above, a Dumbo rat's head resembles an equilateral triangle. The ears are large & round but today, selective breeding has ensured that when you go to get one for your home, you will find yourself facing many different versions of Dumbo rats.

Creased eared Dumbo rats are those that have a sort of fold on their ears. The crease is around the middle of the ear and in many cases, the rat may only have the crease on just one ear. This isn't difficult to breed as picking one, out of the pair, with creased ears will suffice for breeding. However, if you are looking at rat shows then this is a cause for disqualification as it is considered a fault in the gene.
Open eared Dumbo rats are the latest type of rats where the ears are quite low set and seem flat, round and open. These type of ears are also called 'Saucer Ears' and are extremely popular amongst breeders, although not quite as popular as the Open Tulip eared Dumbo rat.

This variety has perfectly rounded ears although they appear to be a bit pointed. However, pressing gently behind the ear puts them into shape and shows that the ears are, indeed, that of a open eared Dumbo rat. The ear is slightly furled and looks like a tulip flower, thus giving it that name.

If you are looking to breed Dumbo rats, then it is extremely important to know what you are aiming for and what you need to start with accordingly. However, a Dumbo rat for your child or as a companion for you need not be so perfect. So don't think and head out to the nearest breeder or pet store and get your very own Dumbo rats.