Bunny info
Rabbit anatomy and physiology.
Wool block in rabbits.
My experience with wool block in rabbits.
I bought Marc. "A Dwarf Hotot" I had him for less then a week and saw that he was acting different.
He was at the back of the cage and didn't come up to me, when I opened the cage.
He seemed tired. He kept eating less and less, he wouldn't eat his pellets and just ate a small bit of grass. I started getting worried that he could be really sick?. His cage smelled, his stool was very soft and i saw fur in it. The minute I saw the fur I knew it was wool block (I never experienced wool block with my rabbits, because all my rabbits had short fur and you would never think a Dwarf Hotot would get wool block because their fur is short).
I looked up wool block in rabbits and found that fresh, dried or in tablets, pineapple or papaya.
Ground flaxseed, sprinkled over there food (it's a good source of fiber)
Extra stemy hay, like timothy hay.
His favorite treats: I tried a few things,
Carrots, sunflower seeds, parsley, dandelion greens or flowers.
I have also heard of people giving their bunnies "Enemas", the idea seems like a good one but i was way to scared to try it, I was afraid I'd mess up and really hurt him.
So I just hoped for the best. For a few days he wouldn't eat his pellets (I read that people said you should stop feeding them pellets all together till the wool block is over. In my opinion, don't take it away completely just give them less because Marc still nibbled on the pellets every once in awhile).
I tried giving him everything I could think of, he ate one piece of pineapple (the first time I gave it but the other days he wouldn't eat it) he did eat a piece of a carrot and nibbled on pieces of grass. Almost a week past and he started loosing weight, I got scared the more days past and he wasn't getting much better. I think it was day 4 and he started eating a tiny bit more of food (he never stopped eating, so it wasn't time to freak out... yet)
On day 6 or 7 it was like he drank a hole bunch of coffee lol. He had so much energy it was crazy! I was trying to clean out his cage, he was jumping all over me and was chewing on my hand, I was really happy he was back to normal, I gave him some pellets and he started eating like he hasn't ate in days (which makes sense because he hasn't) but the best part about it his stools were almost back to normal, there was some soft stuff but it was mostly balls. I've been watching very closely in the starting of his wool block and the end, it's almost over for him, now the only thing left for him to do is get back that weight he lost.
So that was my experience "In wool block", I wrote this for all you people who are new to wool block or just starting with rabbits (I've been breeding rabbits for 5 years now and I never had wool block in my rabbits) like my mom says "your never to old to learn"
Basic info for you Mini Rex rabbit
Basic Information
Life Span - 10+ years with proper care
Does - average weight 3.5 - 4.5 pounds
Bucks - average weight 3.5 - 4 pounds
Mini Rex Rabbits come in many colors: Black, Blue, Blue-Eyed White, Broken Colors, Castor, Chinchilla, Chocolate, Himalayan, Lilac, Lynx, Opal, Red, Seal, Tortoise, and Ruby-Eyed-White.
Rabbits are generally happier in pairs. After all wouldn't you like to have someone to talk to? Rabbits groom each other, keeping hard to reach places clean. They also provide each other a warm cushion to lean on while the other takes a nap. Its better to get two rabbits from the same litter as they will be less likely to fight, or two close to the same age, and of course the same sex.
I feed my rabbits 1/4 of a cup dry pellets per each bunny. two time a days at 9:00 and 5:00
A pregnant doe some time needs 1/2 cup up until 3 days before their delivery date.
(We gave 1/2 cup of pellets when our bunnies give birth, and it works good for us !) When Cherry was pregnant with 6 babies she only needed 1/4 cup of pellets, her next litter she had 3 and she needed the same, so it just depents on the bunny.
Once the kits are born the doe is fed 1/2 feed while nursing. Kits are removed from the mother 6-8 weeks of age depending on litter size and health of kits. Kits are then sold between 10-12 weeks, once again depending on health.
Kits are fed free feed until age 4-6 months, then they are cut back to the 1/4 cup per 2 times a day to prevent over growing.
Rabbits are given fresh water every time they need it. And have hay available 24/7.
To litter train clean cage out completely and place a few droppings and a little pee. into the litter box (bucks are so easy. i litter trained my buck in 2 weeks and my doe in 4 to 5 weeks) It might take 3-4 weeks for some bunnies to get the hang of it. Allow 2-3 months for baby kits. It's like litter training a cat it just takes time.
Rabbits can be kept inside your house, in a basement, or in a hutch outside. ( We have our bunnies in a milk house it says nice and cool in the summer but some times it gets up to 90 outside so we give them fans)
Rabbits can take up to 90 degrees (we don't let it get up to 70 in our bunny tree)
A frozen water bottle will help but we like fans better
Rabbits MUST have proper ventilation to keep cool. (The only place a rabbit can sweat from is through the pads on its feet)
Life Span - 10+ years with proper care
Does - average weight 3.5 - 4.5 pounds
Bucks - average weight 3.5 - 4 pounds
Mini Rex Rabbits come in many colors: Black, Blue, Blue-Eyed White, Broken Colors, Castor, Chinchilla, Chocolate, Himalayan, Lilac, Lynx, Opal, Red, Seal, Tortoise, and Ruby-Eyed-White.
Rabbits are generally happier in pairs. After all wouldn't you like to have someone to talk to? Rabbits groom each other, keeping hard to reach places clean. They also provide each other a warm cushion to lean on while the other takes a nap. Its better to get two rabbits from the same litter as they will be less likely to fight, or two close to the same age, and of course the same sex.
I feed my rabbits 1/4 of a cup dry pellets per each bunny. two time a days at 9:00 and 5:00
A pregnant doe some time needs 1/2 cup up until 3 days before their delivery date.
(We gave 1/2 cup of pellets when our bunnies give birth, and it works good for us !) When Cherry was pregnant with 6 babies she only needed 1/4 cup of pellets, her next litter she had 3 and she needed the same, so it just depents on the bunny.
Once the kits are born the doe is fed 1/2 feed while nursing. Kits are removed from the mother 6-8 weeks of age depending on litter size and health of kits. Kits are then sold between 10-12 weeks, once again depending on health.
Kits are fed free feed until age 4-6 months, then they are cut back to the 1/4 cup per 2 times a day to prevent over growing.
Rabbits are given fresh water every time they need it. And have hay available 24/7.
To litter train clean cage out completely and place a few droppings and a little pee. into the litter box (bucks are so easy. i litter trained my buck in 2 weeks and my doe in 4 to 5 weeks) It might take 3-4 weeks for some bunnies to get the hang of it. Allow 2-3 months for baby kits. It's like litter training a cat it just takes time.
Rabbits can be kept inside your house, in a basement, or in a hutch outside. ( We have our bunnies in a milk house it says nice and cool in the summer but some times it gets up to 90 outside so we give them fans)
Rabbits can take up to 90 degrees (we don't let it get up to 70 in our bunny tree)
A frozen water bottle will help but we like fans better
Rabbits MUST have proper ventilation to keep cool. (The only place a rabbit can sweat from is through the pads on its feet)
Taking from rabbit breeders us newsletter
Here is a list of the top 22 interesting facts about rabbits…
1: The World’s Largest Rabbit named "Darius" weighs approximately 50 pounds and is currently 4 feet, 3 inches. Although this might sound unbelievable, "Darius" is indeed a real rabbit that currently lives with its owner Annette Edwards from the UK. It has been reported that Darius thinks he is a dog.
2: The "most valuable" rabbit on Earth, "Darius", is currently insured for around $1.6/million and has his own personal caretaker aka body guard. (Not that anyone would be brave enough to mess with a 50 pound rabbit lol)
3: In the wild some female rabbits can produce about eight litters of bunnies per year.
4: The largest litter of bunnies every reported consisted of 24 kits.
5: Rabbits are natural runners and can reach speeds of up to 30 to 40 mph.
6: Domesticated rabbits that people raise do not open their eyes until they reach about 2 weeks of age.
8: Baby domestic rabbits are actually born fur-less.
9: Rabbits have 28 teeth.
10: The World’s oldest rabbit on record lived to be 16 years old.
11: The average lifespan of a domesticated rabbit is around 5 to 8 years.
12: Pet rabbits generally live longer than rabbits used for production and those living in the wild.
13: With the right guidance rabbits can be trained to live indoors perfectly.
14: In the UK the rabbit is the third most popular pet option.
15: The average heart rate of a rabbit ranges between 130-325 beats per minute.
16: It is estimated that over 2 million U.S. households own a pet rabbit.
17: Thousands of rabbit shows take place annually in the Continental United States alone, each year.
18: Male rabbits are referred to as "bucks" and female rabbits are referred to as "does".
19: Believe it or not, a rabbit’s teeth never stop growing throughout its life.
20: Rabbits can jump up to 36 inches or higher.
21: In general rabbits are very clean animals that will groom themselves and even each other.
22: Rabbits are amazingly awesome!! (Yes, I do consider that a FACT!)
Here is a list of the top 22 interesting facts about rabbits…
1: The World’s Largest Rabbit named "Darius" weighs approximately 50 pounds and is currently 4 feet, 3 inches. Although this might sound unbelievable, "Darius" is indeed a real rabbit that currently lives with its owner Annette Edwards from the UK. It has been reported that Darius thinks he is a dog.
2: The "most valuable" rabbit on Earth, "Darius", is currently insured for around $1.6/million and has his own personal caretaker aka body guard. (Not that anyone would be brave enough to mess with a 50 pound rabbit lol)
3: In the wild some female rabbits can produce about eight litters of bunnies per year.
4: The largest litter of bunnies every reported consisted of 24 kits.
5: Rabbits are natural runners and can reach speeds of up to 30 to 40 mph.
6: Domesticated rabbits that people raise do not open their eyes until they reach about 2 weeks of age.
8: Baby domestic rabbits are actually born fur-less.
9: Rabbits have 28 teeth.
10: The World’s oldest rabbit on record lived to be 16 years old.
11: The average lifespan of a domesticated rabbit is around 5 to 8 years.
12: Pet rabbits generally live longer than rabbits used for production and those living in the wild.
13: With the right guidance rabbits can be trained to live indoors perfectly.
14: In the UK the rabbit is the third most popular pet option.
15: The average heart rate of a rabbit ranges between 130-325 beats per minute.
16: It is estimated that over 2 million U.S. households own a pet rabbit.
17: Thousands of rabbit shows take place annually in the Continental United States alone, each year.
18: Male rabbits are referred to as "bucks" and female rabbits are referred to as "does".
19: Believe it or not, a rabbit’s teeth never stop growing throughout its life.
20: Rabbits can jump up to 36 inches or higher.
21: In general rabbits are very clean animals that will groom themselves and even each other.
22: Rabbits are amazingly awesome!! (Yes, I do consider that a FACT!)
How To Hold A Bunny.
First get a bunny (we got Marshall)
Put, one hand under the bunny and your 2th hand on the back/rump.
Then pick him up like this,
And set him in your arms.
~ You Did :) It's So Easy ! ~
Rabbit Breeds
Also the top 10:
Number 1: Mini Rex
Number 2: Netherland Dwarf
Number 3: Holland Lop
Number 4: Satin Angora
Number 5: Dutch
Number 6: New Zealand
Number 7: Rex
Number 8: Mini Lop
Number 9: Jersey Wooly
Number 10: Florida White
American Rabbit
Also known as: Established as a classic
Breed description: The American rabbit is a variety of rabbit, recognised by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) as the German Blue Vienna in 1918. It was renamed to American Blue Rabbit shortly after because of World War I. American rabbits have an ideal mandolin body and a deep blue colour.
The American rabbit was introduced by Lewis H. Salisbury, who did not disclose what breeds were used to come to this variety. The body shape suggests that it may well have been bred from blue Vienna, Beveren, Imperial and Flemish Giants.
A white variety named American white rabbit was recognised in 1925. it was developed by selecting rabbits with white spots, and adding in white Flemish giants in the bloodline.
American rabbits were popular animals up until the 1950s, kept for their fur and meat. They are now the rarest variety of rabbit in America. American rabbits weigh between 4 and 5½ kilograms (9–12 lb).
Size:Large
Colors: Blue and White
Weight: 9 to 12 pounds
Breed specialty club website
http://arba.net/
The American rabbit was introduced by Lewis H. Salisbury, who did not disclose what breeds were used to come to this variety. The body shape suggests that it may well have been bred from blue Vienna, Beveren, Imperial and Flemish Giants.
A white variety named American white rabbit was recognised in 1925. it was developed by selecting rabbits with white spots, and adding in white Flemish giants in the bloodline.
American rabbits were popular animals up until the 1950s, kept for their fur and meat. They are now the rarest variety of rabbit in America. American rabbits weigh between 4 and 5½ kilograms (9–12 lb).
Size:Large
Colors: Blue and White
Weight: 9 to 12 pounds
Breed specialty club website
http://arba.net/
American Fuzzy Lop
Also known as: Head of the fancy
Breed description: The American Fuzzy Lop is a rabbit breed recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA). It is similar in appearance to a Holland Lop. However, the American Fuzzy Lop is a wool breed and will have wool similar to the Angora breeds, although the wool will be of a short variety.
The background of the American Fuzzy Lop is interwoven with the history of the Holland Lop. When first introduced, the Holland Lop rabbit was only available in solid colors, and some breeders wanted to add the broken pattern to the Holland Lop gene pool. To do this, they bred their Holland Lops to English Spots. While they achieved the goal of producing broken pattern rabbits, they failed to keep the rollback fur the Holland must have. The offspring instead had the flyback fur of the English Spot. The breeders then bred Holland Lops to French Angoras, a breed that has a very gentle rollback coat. The result of these manipulations was that the wool gene was also introduced into the Holland Lop gene pool and a Holland with long wool was occasionally found in Holland Lop litters. These were generally sold to people who were enchanted with a small wooled lop-eared rabbit. I believe you could also breed Jersey Wooly and Holland Lops to get an American Fuzzy Lop.
The pioneer American Fuzzy Lop breeders, including Patty Greene-Karl and Gary Fellers of the East Coast and Kim Landry and Margaret Miller of the West Coast, noted the marketability of these fuzzy Hollands. Patty Greene-Karl is credited with realizing that the "fuzzy" gene was recessive, so that mating two Holland Lops carrying this gene resulted in a certain percentage of the offspring (theoretically 25%) with wool. Patty decided to develop these rabbits as a new breed, named the American Fuzzy Lop. After working for four years on the development of Fuzzies, she presented her rabbits to the ARBA for the first showing of the new breed at the 1985 ARBA Convention in Houston, Texas. Three separate standards for wooled lops were received from three different individuals. The original standard called for a maximum weight of 4 ¾ lb with the ideal weight of 3 ¾ lb, a rabbit designed to have the body type, ear carriage, and size of a Holland Lop, combined with a short, easily maintained wool. At the 1986 ARBA Convention in Columbus, Ohio, the American Fuzzy Lop was presented for its second showing, and again passed. At its third showing at the 1987 ARBA Convention in Portland, Oregon, the ARBA Standards Committee did not approve the breed. They stated a lack of uniformity from one animal to another. A new working standard was written by Jeff Hardin at the request of Patty, which was accepted. The revised standard basically described a wooled Holland, calling for a maximum weight of 4 pounds, and an ideal weight of 3½ lb In 1988, ARBA requested only the breed sponsor be allowed to bring her Fuzzy Lops to Convention in Madison, Wisconsin because of limited cage space. The American Fuzzy Lop had to pass that year to become a recognized breed or else its proponents would have to start the procedure all over again. Fortunately, Patty’s presentation passed at this Convention, and the American Fuzzy Lop became a new recognized breed. In 1989 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Helen McKie's "Herbie" was selected as the first Best of Breed (BOB) American Fuzzy Lop at an ARBA Convention. Herbie’s picture graced the ARBA Standard of Perfection, 1991–95, representing Fuzzies well but only the American Fuzzy Lop presented by Patty was granted a working standard.
Size: Small
Weight: 3 to 5 pounds
Colors: Chinchilla, chestnut, lynx, opal, white, black, blue, pointed white,squirrel,blue eyed white, chocolate, lilac, ruby eyed white, sable point, siamese, sable, siamese smoke pearl, tortoise shell, fawn, orange and broken
Breed specialty club website
http://users.connections.net/fuzzylop/
The background of the American Fuzzy Lop is interwoven with the history of the Holland Lop. When first introduced, the Holland Lop rabbit was only available in solid colors, and some breeders wanted to add the broken pattern to the Holland Lop gene pool. To do this, they bred their Holland Lops to English Spots. While they achieved the goal of producing broken pattern rabbits, they failed to keep the rollback fur the Holland must have. The offspring instead had the flyback fur of the English Spot. The breeders then bred Holland Lops to French Angoras, a breed that has a very gentle rollback coat. The result of these manipulations was that the wool gene was also introduced into the Holland Lop gene pool and a Holland with long wool was occasionally found in Holland Lop litters. These were generally sold to people who were enchanted with a small wooled lop-eared rabbit. I believe you could also breed Jersey Wooly and Holland Lops to get an American Fuzzy Lop.
The pioneer American Fuzzy Lop breeders, including Patty Greene-Karl and Gary Fellers of the East Coast and Kim Landry and Margaret Miller of the West Coast, noted the marketability of these fuzzy Hollands. Patty Greene-Karl is credited with realizing that the "fuzzy" gene was recessive, so that mating two Holland Lops carrying this gene resulted in a certain percentage of the offspring (theoretically 25%) with wool. Patty decided to develop these rabbits as a new breed, named the American Fuzzy Lop. After working for four years on the development of Fuzzies, she presented her rabbits to the ARBA for the first showing of the new breed at the 1985 ARBA Convention in Houston, Texas. Three separate standards for wooled lops were received from three different individuals. The original standard called for a maximum weight of 4 ¾ lb with the ideal weight of 3 ¾ lb, a rabbit designed to have the body type, ear carriage, and size of a Holland Lop, combined with a short, easily maintained wool. At the 1986 ARBA Convention in Columbus, Ohio, the American Fuzzy Lop was presented for its second showing, and again passed. At its third showing at the 1987 ARBA Convention in Portland, Oregon, the ARBA Standards Committee did not approve the breed. They stated a lack of uniformity from one animal to another. A new working standard was written by Jeff Hardin at the request of Patty, which was accepted. The revised standard basically described a wooled Holland, calling for a maximum weight of 4 pounds, and an ideal weight of 3½ lb In 1988, ARBA requested only the breed sponsor be allowed to bring her Fuzzy Lops to Convention in Madison, Wisconsin because of limited cage space. The American Fuzzy Lop had to pass that year to become a recognized breed or else its proponents would have to start the procedure all over again. Fortunately, Patty’s presentation passed at this Convention, and the American Fuzzy Lop became a new recognized breed. In 1989 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Helen McKie's "Herbie" was selected as the first Best of Breed (BOB) American Fuzzy Lop at an ARBA Convention. Herbie’s picture graced the ARBA Standard of Perfection, 1991–95, representing Fuzzies well but only the American Fuzzy Lop presented by Patty was granted a working standard.
Size: Small
Weight: 3 to 5 pounds
Colors: Chinchilla, chestnut, lynx, opal, white, black, blue, pointed white,squirrel,blue eyed white, chocolate, lilac, ruby eyed white, sable point, siamese, sable, siamese smoke pearl, tortoise shell, fawn, orange and broken
Breed specialty club website
http://users.connections.net/fuzzylop/
American Sable
Breed description: The American Sable is a result of chinchilla rabbit crosses. Sables are identical to Chinchilla rabbits in body conformation, but their coats are colored differently. The head, feet, ears, back, and top of the tail are a dark sepia, while the coat fades to a lighter tan over the rest of the body, similar to the coloring of a siamese cat. The breed's eyes are usually dark with a ruby hue.
For more info see http://www.raising-rabbits.com/american-sable-rabbit.html
Size: Medium
Colors: Sable
Weight: 7 to 10 pounds
Breed specialty club website
www.americansablerabbit.com
For more info see http://www.raising-rabbits.com/american-sable-rabbit.html
Size: Medium
Colors: Sable
Weight: 7 to 10 pounds
Breed specialty club website
www.americansablerabbit.com
Angora - English
All The Angora's Are Also known As: The Bunny With A Bonus
Breed description: The Angora rabbit(Turkish: Ankara tavşanı)is a variety of domestic rabbit bred for its long, soft wool. The Angora is one of the oldest types of domestic rabbit. originating in Ankara (historically known as Angora), Turkey along with the Angora cat and Angora goat The rabbits were popular pets with French royalty in the mid 18th century, and spread to other parts of Europe by the end of the century. They first appeared in the United States in the early 20th century
Prior to the 1939, there was one breed of "Angora Wooler". In 1939, ARBA reclassified "Angora Wooler" into "English Type" and "French Type". In 1944, ARBA officially separated Angora rabbits into two breeds: English Angora and French Angora.
Rabbits of the Angora breed are adorned with "fur," growths of wool on the ears and the entire face except above the nose, and front feet, along with their thick body, and wool. They are gentle in nature, but they are not recommended for those who do not groom their animals. Their wool is very dense and needs to be groomed twice a week.
This is the smallest Angora rabbit of the four breeds recognized by ARBA. This breed is more common as a pet because of the facial features that give it a puppy dog or teddy bear look. If the texture of the wool is correct, the maintenance is relatively easy; if the texture of the rabbit is cottony, it requires a great deal of maintenance.
The English Angora can be bred to have broken colors, (e.g.: the rabbit is white with black spots.) This is not accepted by ARBA standards, and would lead to a disqualification when showing the rabbit. When showing an English Angora rabbit, the toenails should also be only one color, the ears could be folded over at the tips, and the furnishings on the face may cover their eyes. The English Angora rabbit is the only rabbit that has hair covering its eyes.
Size: Medium
Weight: 6 to 7 1/2
See link for colors and so cute pic's
http://bumblebeeacres.com/EnglishAngoraRainbowofColors.htm
Breed specialty club website
www.nationalangorarabbitbreeders.com
Prior to the 1939, there was one breed of "Angora Wooler". In 1939, ARBA reclassified "Angora Wooler" into "English Type" and "French Type". In 1944, ARBA officially separated Angora rabbits into two breeds: English Angora and French Angora.
Rabbits of the Angora breed are adorned with "fur," growths of wool on the ears and the entire face except above the nose, and front feet, along with their thick body, and wool. They are gentle in nature, but they are not recommended for those who do not groom their animals. Their wool is very dense and needs to be groomed twice a week.
This is the smallest Angora rabbit of the four breeds recognized by ARBA. This breed is more common as a pet because of the facial features that give it a puppy dog or teddy bear look. If the texture of the wool is correct, the maintenance is relatively easy; if the texture of the rabbit is cottony, it requires a great deal of maintenance.
The English Angora can be bred to have broken colors, (e.g.: the rabbit is white with black spots.) This is not accepted by ARBA standards, and would lead to a disqualification when showing the rabbit. When showing an English Angora rabbit, the toenails should also be only one color, the ears could be folded over at the tips, and the furnishings on the face may cover their eyes. The English Angora rabbit is the only rabbit that has hair covering its eyes.
Size: Medium
Weight: 6 to 7 1/2
See link for colors and so cute pic's
http://bumblebeeacres.com/EnglishAngoraRainbowofColors.htm
Breed specialty club website
www.nationalangorarabbitbreeders.com
Angora - French
Breed description: The French Angora is one of the large Angora breeds at 7.5 to 10 lbs, with a commercial body type. It differs from the English, Giant and German Angora.The color of a French Angora is determined by the color of its head, feet and tail (all the same color) the angora fibre has smooth silky texture making it difficult to spin.
This breed has a preponderance of guard hair on the surface, with wool as an undercoat. If the texture is correct, it requires less maintenance than other Angora breeds. Small ear tufts are allowed, but not usually preferred by breeders. ARBA recognizes the same colors as with English Angora, plus broken. They are shown at ARBA shows using the types "white" and "colored" (broken being a colored). As with other ARBA shown rabbits, toenails should also be only one color.
The French Angora is one of the large Angora breeds at 7.5 to 10 lbs, with a commercial body type. It differs from the English, Giant and German Angora in that it possesses a clean face and front feet, with only minor tufting on the rear legs. The color of a French Angora is determined by the color of its head, feet and tail (all the same color) the angora fibre has smooth silky texture making it difficult to spin. Desirable characteristics of the fibre include its texture, warmth, lightweight and pure white color. It is used for sweaters, mittens, baby clothes and millinery
Size: Medium
Weight: 7 to 10
Colors: see link for list of colors
http://www.raising-rabbits.com/french-angora-rabbits.html
Breed specialty club website
ww.nationalangorarabbitbreeders.com
This breed has a preponderance of guard hair on the surface, with wool as an undercoat. If the texture is correct, it requires less maintenance than other Angora breeds. Small ear tufts are allowed, but not usually preferred by breeders. ARBA recognizes the same colors as with English Angora, plus broken. They are shown at ARBA shows using the types "white" and "colored" (broken being a colored). As with other ARBA shown rabbits, toenails should also be only one color.
The French Angora is one of the large Angora breeds at 7.5 to 10 lbs, with a commercial body type. It differs from the English, Giant and German Angora in that it possesses a clean face and front feet, with only minor tufting on the rear legs. The color of a French Angora is determined by the color of its head, feet and tail (all the same color) the angora fibre has smooth silky texture making it difficult to spin. Desirable characteristics of the fibre include its texture, warmth, lightweight and pure white color. It is used for sweaters, mittens, baby clothes and millinery
Size: Medium
Weight: 7 to 10
Colors: see link for list of colors
http://www.raising-rabbits.com/french-angora-rabbits.html
Breed specialty club website
ww.nationalangorarabbitbreeders.com
Angora - Giant
Breed description: The Giant Angora is the largest of the ARBA accepted Angora breeds, having been created by Louise Walsh, of Taunton, Massachusetts to be an efficient wool-producing rabbit sustained with 16-18% alfalfa based rabbit feed and hay, and living in the standard size all wire cages used for commercial breeds. Its coat contains three types of wool: soft under wool, awn fluff, and awn hair; the awn type wool exists only on the Giant and German Angora. This breed should have furnishings on the face and ears. Many people confuse German with Giant Angora, but they are not the same.
This is the largest of the four ARBA recognized Angora breeds. The only color ARBA officially recognizes for Giant Angora is ruby-eyed white (REW), or as more commonly referred to as an "albino", indicating the absence of color pigment in the genetic makeup. The Giant Angora produces more wool than the French, Satin or English Angora. It is easiest to set the rabbit on a standard grooming table, with a "turn table" to do the clipping. You then stay in control of where the rabbit is. Like the German Angora, they require their wool to be harvested every 90 days. When Giants are on a good feeding program, their wool will grow abut 3 cm or 1 inch per month. The coat needs to be monitored after 6 months of growth as it may tend to "die" and easily mat. 12+ ounces of wool is not uncommon per clipping of a good sized Giant Angora.
Since rabbits ingest their wool when they groom themselves, clipping their wool at least once every 180 days is considered a must to prevent wool block from occurring. A dietary supplement of papaya (from the vitamin section of the grocery store) in their diet helps wool to break down in their digestive tract. The wool swallowed by a rabbit cannot be coughed or vomited up, and will cause it to slowly starve to death as its digestive tract fills up with ingested wool; if left untreated, wool block can lead to death. It is widely held among serious Angora breeders that ample cage space to exercise and feeding fresh horse quality hay on a daily basis will help keep the wool moving through the system and prevent wool block. It is also widely held that feeding both bromelin from fresh pineapple and papain from fresh papaya occasionally will aid in breaking down the ingested wool (they are proteolytic enzymes), and aid in its passage through the rabbits' system. Other helpful tips for loose wool control include, giving the rabbit a pine cone to play with. They nibble them, throw them around, and they turn into a good wool catcher in their cage. When the pine cone is all nibbled or full of wool, replace it.
Like many other "giant" breeds of rabbits, the Giant Angora grows slowly. A senior doe usually takes more than a year to reach full maturity (size and weight). A senior buck can take up to 1.5 years to fully mature (size and weight).
Size: Large
Colors: Ruby eyed white (REW)
Weight: 10 & up
Breed specialty club website
www.nationalangoarabbitbreeders.com
This is the largest of the four ARBA recognized Angora breeds. The only color ARBA officially recognizes for Giant Angora is ruby-eyed white (REW), or as more commonly referred to as an "albino", indicating the absence of color pigment in the genetic makeup. The Giant Angora produces more wool than the French, Satin or English Angora. It is easiest to set the rabbit on a standard grooming table, with a "turn table" to do the clipping. You then stay in control of where the rabbit is. Like the German Angora, they require their wool to be harvested every 90 days. When Giants are on a good feeding program, their wool will grow abut 3 cm or 1 inch per month. The coat needs to be monitored after 6 months of growth as it may tend to "die" and easily mat. 12+ ounces of wool is not uncommon per clipping of a good sized Giant Angora.
Since rabbits ingest their wool when they groom themselves, clipping their wool at least once every 180 days is considered a must to prevent wool block from occurring. A dietary supplement of papaya (from the vitamin section of the grocery store) in their diet helps wool to break down in their digestive tract. The wool swallowed by a rabbit cannot be coughed or vomited up, and will cause it to slowly starve to death as its digestive tract fills up with ingested wool; if left untreated, wool block can lead to death. It is widely held among serious Angora breeders that ample cage space to exercise and feeding fresh horse quality hay on a daily basis will help keep the wool moving through the system and prevent wool block. It is also widely held that feeding both bromelin from fresh pineapple and papain from fresh papaya occasionally will aid in breaking down the ingested wool (they are proteolytic enzymes), and aid in its passage through the rabbits' system. Other helpful tips for loose wool control include, giving the rabbit a pine cone to play with. They nibble them, throw them around, and they turn into a good wool catcher in their cage. When the pine cone is all nibbled or full of wool, replace it.
Like many other "giant" breeds of rabbits, the Giant Angora grows slowly. A senior doe usually takes more than a year to reach full maturity (size and weight). A senior buck can take up to 1.5 years to fully mature (size and weight).
Size: Large
Colors: Ruby eyed white (REW)
Weight: 10 & up
Breed specialty club website
www.nationalangoarabbitbreeders.com
Angora - Satin
Number 4
Breed description: The Satin Angora is derived from cross breeding between a Satin and a French Angora.This breed is named for the high sheen of the wool, commonly referred to as "satinized," the hair shaft has a semi-transparent outer shell and reflects light, resulting in deep color, high luster, and extreme soft texture of its wool. It resembles the French Angora, having no furnishings on the face, ears, or feet, and it is also easy to groom compared to the English variety.Satin Angora's wool is said to be stronger for spinning than other varieties of Angora, although it is considered more difficult to spin.
The Satin Angora is derived from cross breeding between a Satin and a French Angora. This breed is named for the high sheen of the wool, commonly referred to as "satinized," the hair shaft has a semi-transparent outer shell and reflects light, resulting in deep color, high luster, and extreme soft texture of its wool. It resembles the French Angora, having no furnishings on the face, ears, or feet, and it is also easy to groom compared to the English variety, although the soft texture makes matting an issue, and daily combing is recommended. Satin Angora's wool is said to be stronger for spinning than other varieties of Angora, although it is considered more difficult to spin. The rewards are many, since the lowest micron count can be found in this breed, it is suitable for next-to-the-skin and baby garments, even for people who consider Angora too prickly to wear.
They are shown at ARBA shows using the types "white" and "colored" (broken not yet approved). As with other ARBA shown rabbits, toenails should also be only one color. The color of a Satin Angora is determined by the color of its head, feet and tail (all the same color).
This breed does not produce as much wool as other breeds of Angora rabbits. This trait is being improved upon by selective breeding. The wool should have a silky texture, high luster, with good guard hair for ease of maintenance.
Size: Medium
Colors: Red, tan, white and broken
Weight: 6 to 9 pounds
Breed specialty club website
http://nationalangorarabbitbreeders.com/
The Satin Angora is derived from cross breeding between a Satin and a French Angora. This breed is named for the high sheen of the wool, commonly referred to as "satinized," the hair shaft has a semi-transparent outer shell and reflects light, resulting in deep color, high luster, and extreme soft texture of its wool. It resembles the French Angora, having no furnishings on the face, ears, or feet, and it is also easy to groom compared to the English variety, although the soft texture makes matting an issue, and daily combing is recommended. Satin Angora's wool is said to be stronger for spinning than other varieties of Angora, although it is considered more difficult to spin. The rewards are many, since the lowest micron count can be found in this breed, it is suitable for next-to-the-skin and baby garments, even for people who consider Angora too prickly to wear.
They are shown at ARBA shows using the types "white" and "colored" (broken not yet approved). As with other ARBA shown rabbits, toenails should also be only one color. The color of a Satin Angora is determined by the color of its head, feet and tail (all the same color).
This breed does not produce as much wool as other breeds of Angora rabbits. This trait is being improved upon by selective breeding. The wool should have a silky texture, high luster, with good guard hair for ease of maintenance.
Size: Medium
Colors: Red, tan, white and broken
Weight: 6 to 9 pounds
Breed specialty club website
http://nationalangorarabbitbreeders.com/
Belgian Hare
Also known as: king of fancy
Breed description: The Belgian Hare is a fancy breed of domestic rabbit that was developed through selective breeding to closely resemble the wild hare in physical appearance, and is believed to be one of the most intelligent and active breeds of domestic rabbit. Averaging 6 to 9 pounds in weight, the Belgian Hare is characterized by its long, slender body and agile legs that closely resemble a hare, and can live up to ten years or more.
The first Belgian Hares were bred in Belgium in the early 18th century out of selective breeding between domestic and wild European rabbits with the intent of creating a practical meat rabbit. In 1874, they were imported to England and called the "Belgian Hare." English breeders made the Belgian Hare appear more spirited, like wild English rabbits. By 1877 the first Belgian Hares were shown in the America where it immediately rose in popularity, giving rise to thousands of Belgian Hare clubs around the country, thousands were bred, and some sold for as much as 1,000 US dollars.
The first of these clubs was known as the "American Belgian Hare Association". With a wide and scattered membership the club lasted not much more than a year. In 1897 the "National Belgian Hare Club" was formed. Twelve years after the formation of the National Belgian Hare Club of America, and as additional breeds were introduced in the US, a new "all-breed" club, the "National Pet Stock Association" was formed. After several name changes, the National Pet Stock Association became the American Rabbit Breeders Association As years passed, the National Belgian Hare club of America also passed from existence. In June, 1972, a group of Belgian Hare breeders gathered together to apply for a specialty club charter from the American Rabbit Breeders Association to replace the National Belgian Hare Club of America. In July, 1972, the charter was granted and the last, and most prominent of these groups, the "American Belgian Hare Club" was established, that continues to exist to this day.
In 1917, their popularity began to fade away, and one of the reasons attributed to this decline is the failed attempt by many breeders to turn the Belgian Hare, a naturally race rabbit, into a meat rabbit, a role to which they were physically and behaviourally unsuited. However, today, true Belgian Hares are rare, due partly to the degree of difficulty many have had in breeding them.
Size: Medium
Colors: Rich red, tan or chestnut, black/ blue undercolor
Weight: 6 to 9 pounds
Breed specialty club website
http://belgianhareclub.com/
The first Belgian Hares were bred in Belgium in the early 18th century out of selective breeding between domestic and wild European rabbits with the intent of creating a practical meat rabbit. In 1874, they were imported to England and called the "Belgian Hare." English breeders made the Belgian Hare appear more spirited, like wild English rabbits. By 1877 the first Belgian Hares were shown in the America where it immediately rose in popularity, giving rise to thousands of Belgian Hare clubs around the country, thousands were bred, and some sold for as much as 1,000 US dollars.
The first of these clubs was known as the "American Belgian Hare Association". With a wide and scattered membership the club lasted not much more than a year. In 1897 the "National Belgian Hare Club" was formed. Twelve years after the formation of the National Belgian Hare Club of America, and as additional breeds were introduced in the US, a new "all-breed" club, the "National Pet Stock Association" was formed. After several name changes, the National Pet Stock Association became the American Rabbit Breeders Association As years passed, the National Belgian Hare club of America also passed from existence. In June, 1972, a group of Belgian Hare breeders gathered together to apply for a specialty club charter from the American Rabbit Breeders Association to replace the National Belgian Hare Club of America. In July, 1972, the charter was granted and the last, and most prominent of these groups, the "American Belgian Hare Club" was established, that continues to exist to this day.
In 1917, their popularity began to fade away, and one of the reasons attributed to this decline is the failed attempt by many breeders to turn the Belgian Hare, a naturally race rabbit, into a meat rabbit, a role to which they were physically and behaviourally unsuited. However, today, true Belgian Hares are rare, due partly to the degree of difficulty many have had in breeding them.
Size: Medium
Colors: Rich red, tan or chestnut, black/ blue undercolor
Weight: 6 to 9 pounds
Breed specialty club website
http://belgianhareclub.com/
Beveren
Also known as: The breed of distinction
Breed description: The Beveren is one of the oldest and largest breeds of fur rabbits It was first bred in Beveren, a small town near Antwerp in Belgium.The Beveren rabbit is a rare breed. They are well tempered, clean, and smart. Beverens are full of energy, and love to explore the outdoors. The coat should be dense and glossy with a gentle rollback fur type. Fur length is rather long having an average of 1¼ to 1½ inches. This large breed has a pronounced mandolin shape with mature bucks at 8 to 11 pounds and does at 10 to12 pounds. Their litters are large, the young grow fairly fast, and the does are typically docile and make good mothers.
Size: Large
Colors: Black, blue, white and Rare blue eyed white (BEW)
Weight: 10 to 12 pounds
Breed specialty club website
http://www.freewebs.com/beverens/
Size: Large
Colors: Black, blue, white and Rare blue eyed white (BEW)
Weight: 10 to 12 pounds
Breed specialty club website
http://www.freewebs.com/beverens/
Britannia Petite
Also known as: The fancy's elite
Breed description: The Brittania Petite Rabbit, called the British Polish Rabbit or the "Polish" Rabbit in Britain, is not a "dwarf" but it is a very small rabbit. Along with the Netherland Dwarf it is one of the smallest rabbits. Generally more high strung than other small rabbits, Brittania Petite Rabbits have a vigorous nature. They will take gentle perseverance to tame. With patience however, you can be rewarded with a most delightful pet. The Brittania Petite Rabbit is very curious and likes lots of toys and attention. These are not a pet for the timid. Small children would probably do better with one of the calmer small bunnies that are more willing to patiently accept handling.
Size: Small
Colors: Black, black otter, chestnut, sable marten, rubyeyed white
Weight: 2 to 3 pounds
Breed specialty club website
http://britanniapetites.com/
Size: Small
Colors: Black, black otter, chestnut, sable marten, rubyeyed white
Weight: 2 to 3 pounds
Breed specialty club website
http://britanniapetites.com/
Californian
Also known as: from east coast to west, californians are the best
Breed description: The Californian breed of domestic rabbit was developed in the early 1920s by George West in Southern California. He crossed Himalayan breeds and the Standard Chinchilla rabbit breed and then crossed the offspring with New Zealand Whites. The purpose of this breed was to have a good meat breed that also had a good quality pelt. The breed did not become popular for at least 15 years after development. Today, the Californian rabbit is the second most popular meat-producing breed in the world after the New Zealand rabbit. The fur quality allows this rabbit to also be classified as a fancy breed. The Californian rabbit has big ears (not as large as Flemish Giant) and is moderate in size, weighing around 7 to 12 pounds (3.5 to 4.75 kilograms). The original coloration of this breed was very similar to the Himalayan rabbit, with a predominantly white body and a dark brown (nearly black) on the feet, nose, ears and tail. They have pink eyes.
Size: Large
Color: White with black (black feet, ears, tall and nose).
Weight: 7 to 12 pounds
Breed specialty club website
www.nationalcalclub.com
Size: Large
Color: White with black (black feet, ears, tall and nose).
Weight: 7 to 12 pounds
Breed specialty club website
www.nationalcalclub.com
Champagne D' Argent
Also known as: The silver beauty
Breed description: The Argente rabbit is one of the oldest breeds of French show rabbits The British Rabbit Council recognises five colours of Argentes: Bleu, Brun, Creme, Champagne and Noir, while the American Rabbit Breeders Association recognises only Creme and Champagne. At birth, Argentes are of a solid color, with adult coloring beginning to show around four months of age. They are known as excellent pets due to their good nature.
While not the oldest breed ever, the Champagne d’Argent is recognizable in history clear back to 1631. Undoubtedly the breed predates this reference by untold years. In 1631, Gervaise Marrkham advised rabbit breeders to use the largest "conies," or rabbits, they could find for breeding stock, and then offered - in the King’s English - a description of the fur color and qualities in a silvered rabbit.
Size: Large
Colors: Silver a bluish white with black interspersed and a dark nose and muzzle
Weight: 10 to 12 pounds
Breed specialty club website
http://tristatechampagnes.yolasite.com/
Checkered Giant
One of my favorites
Also known as: The rabbit beautiful
Breed description: The Checkered Giant rabbit is a breed of rabbit developed in Europe In the UK the breed is known as Giant Papillon.
Checkered Giants are one of 47 breeds of domestic rabbits recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association. Mature Checkered Giant bucks should weigh at least 11 pounds (5.0 kg), and mature does 12 pounds (5.4 kg), but there is no specified maximum weight. The Checkered Giant is outweighed by the Giant Chinchilla and Flemish Giant The Checkered Giant is considered a show rabbit rather than a meat rabbit. The Checkered Giant is one of only 11 breeds with defined markings. Body type markings differ between European and American Checkered Giants, although they are considered the same breed.
Size: Giant
Weight: 11 to 12 pounds
Colors: There is only two recognized colors of the checkered giants, blue, black. the markings must be distinct including the butterfly, the eye circles, the check spots, ears, spine, and the side markings
Breed specialty club website
http://www.acgrc.com/
Checkered Giants are one of 47 breeds of domestic rabbits recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association. Mature Checkered Giant bucks should weigh at least 11 pounds (5.0 kg), and mature does 12 pounds (5.4 kg), but there is no specified maximum weight. The Checkered Giant is outweighed by the Giant Chinchilla and Flemish Giant The Checkered Giant is considered a show rabbit rather than a meat rabbit. The Checkered Giant is one of only 11 breeds with defined markings. Body type markings differ between European and American Checkered Giants, although they are considered the same breed.
Size: Giant
Weight: 11 to 12 pounds
Colors: There is only two recognized colors of the checkered giants, blue, black. the markings must be distinct including the butterfly, the eye circles, the check spots, ears, spine, and the side markings
Breed specialty club website
http://www.acgrc.com/
_CChinchilla - Standard
Also Known As: The original chin
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Breed description: The Standard Chinchilla Rabbit Breed, originally known in America simply as a Chinchilla, arrived in America in 1919. A British gentleman sailed to New York to show his rabbits at the New York State Fair. After the exhibit, he sold his rabbits. They were bought by Edward Stahl of Pearl River, NY and Jack Harris of Akron, OH. Marcellus W. Meek imported additional Chinchilla rabbits in 1920. Being a rather small rabbit, the Chinchilla was not a good meat rabbit, so breeders concentrated on creating a larger variety. In 1928, the original Chinchilla rabbit was approved by the ARBA as the Standard Chinchilla.
All three varieties of the Chinchilla were extremely popular in America and by 1928, there were 9,990 registered with the American Rabbit & Cavy Breeders Association Between November 1928 and November 1929, 17,328 Chinchilla rabbits were registered. Sports from the Chinchilla breed kits that were not up to Chinchilla standards) were important to the creation of the Silver Martens, American Sables and Siamese Sable rabbit breeds.
Size: Medium
Weight: 6 to 7 pounds
Colors: Chinchilla ( hair base is blue, middle is gray, then white, and black tipped
Breed specialty club website
http://www.ascrba.com/
Breed description: The Standard Chinchilla Rabbit Breed, originally known in America simply as a Chinchilla, arrived in America in 1919. A British gentleman sailed to New York to show his rabbits at the New York State Fair. After the exhibit, he sold his rabbits. They were bought by Edward Stahl of Pearl River, NY and Jack Harris of Akron, OH. Marcellus W. Meek imported additional Chinchilla rabbits in 1920. Being a rather small rabbit, the Chinchilla was not a good meat rabbit, so breeders concentrated on creating a larger variety. In 1928, the original Chinchilla rabbit was approved by the ARBA as the Standard Chinchilla.
All three varieties of the Chinchilla were extremely popular in America and by 1928, there were 9,990 registered with the American Rabbit & Cavy Breeders Association Between November 1928 and November 1929, 17,328 Chinchilla rabbits were registered. Sports from the Chinchilla breed kits that were not up to Chinchilla standards) were important to the creation of the Silver Martens, American Sables and Siamese Sable rabbit breeds.
Size: Medium
Weight: 6 to 7 pounds
Colors: Chinchilla ( hair base is blue, middle is gray, then white, and black tipped
Breed specialty club website
http://www.ascrba.com/
Chinchilla - American
Breed description: The American Chinchilla or "Heavyweight Chinchilla" is larger than the Standard Chinchilla but otherwise identical. Standard Chinchillas bred for large size produced this breed. Chinchilla Rabbits originated in France and were bred to standard by M. J. Dybowski. They were introduced to the United States in 1919.
Bred to be a meat and fur rabbit, the American Chinchilla Rabbit can be shown/exhibited or kept as a stocky, hardy pet.
The American Chinchilla Rabbit was bred from large Standard Chinchilla Rabbits in order to produce a meatier rabbit. They were originally called Heavyweight Chinchilla Rabbits. American Chinchilla Rabbits will be disqualified in show for having a body type that resembles a Flemish Giant Rabbit
The American Chinchilla is one of the two most popular breeds raised for fur production according to .http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/alt-ag/rabbit.htm
Size: Large
Weight: 9 to 12 pounds
Colors: Chinchilla ( hair base is blue, middle is gray, then white, and black tipped
Breed specialty club website
http://albc-usa.org/cpl/americanchinchilla.html
Bred to be a meat and fur rabbit, the American Chinchilla Rabbit can be shown/exhibited or kept as a stocky, hardy pet.
The American Chinchilla Rabbit was bred from large Standard Chinchilla Rabbits in order to produce a meatier rabbit. They were originally called Heavyweight Chinchilla Rabbits. American Chinchilla Rabbits will be disqualified in show for having a body type that resembles a Flemish Giant Rabbit
The American Chinchilla is one of the two most popular breeds raised for fur production according to .http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/alt-ag/rabbit.htm
Size: Large
Weight: 9 to 12 pounds
Colors: Chinchilla ( hair base is blue, middle is gray, then white, and black tipped
Breed specialty club website
http://albc-usa.org/cpl/americanchinchilla.html
Chinchilla - Giant
Also known as: The gentle giant
_Breed description: The Giant Chinchilla rabbit is considered a "watch" status by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy, a group dedicated to the preservation of rare livestock. With fewer than 10,000 in the global population the Giant Chinchilla was developed in the United States. The interest in the chinchilla rabbits for their pelts as well as meat was high. Edward Stahl of Missouri took notice of the chinchilla rabbits and the development of the American Chinchilla. From a fur standpoint he envisioned a larger animal with a larger pelt. Using a large, outstanding Chinchilla buck to breed to Flemish and American does he had reasonable progress for size and color and continued to work towards his goal. In 1921 he received his Christmas present in the form of a doe that fit the ideal picture in his mind. She was named the "Million Dollar Princess" and she was the beginning of the Giant Chinchilla.
This is a large breed with bucks 12-15 pounds and does at 13-16 pounds. Due to their giant status it's not unheard of to have 18-19 pound does which although they don't meet the standard can produce well on smaller bucks.
This is a breed that should be handled and handled often! Attitude is a culling factor they simply are too large and teeth and claws too dangerous to put up with a poor attitude.
Due to their large size and commercial value they should be a meaty rabbit with width from shoulders to rump, with good fleshing over the hips and loin. Their large size is an asset from a meat and fur standpoint but from a care standpoint it can mean extra work. Solid floors are needed to support the weight of these giants although they can be housed in wire cages IF provided with resting boards and care is taken to have the floors in good condition. The rabbits should have a good covering of fur and most will sprawl out when sleeping but keep a regular eye to make sure that sore hocks do not become an issue. This is a simple fix but if left unchecked can not only cause pain for the rabbit but result in losing the rabbit.
This is a very gentle breed, owing to the selection for temperament as well as meat and fur. The doe is typically a good mother with large litters. Kits are fast growing and with good nutrition and care they can be a 7 pound fryer in just 2 months at weaning! Keep this in mind though! If you have a 15 pound doe with 10 kits that are 5 pounds at a month old up to 7 pounds at two months you MUST make plans! They will need a cage strong enough and large enough to house the doe and her brood and producing 70 pounds of rabbits in two months takes outstanding nutrition. Do not expect to do this with the cheap pet foods a performance feed and plenty of hay is needed for maximum growth as well as plentiful water. Rabbits stop eating without water so make sure they don't run out if you have a large litter of Giant Chins!
The docile nature of this breed is incredible and illustrated well after I found my Giant Chinchilla buck missing from his cage. I started feeding and watering the other rabbits and he came hopping out right up to me for his share. It is NOT recommended rabbits be allowed to be loose, as dogs, hawks, owls and other predators will make short work even of a giant rabbit, but many smaller breeds would have been long gone! This is a breed that knows when they have it good!
The Giant Chinchilla is a wonderful breed to have if you like docile rabbits and the idea of raising your own food appeals to you, but space is a factor. Their large size is not recommended for children too small to handle them safely any rabbit that is insecure will scratch and those large feet can do a lot of damage to a child without intending to be mean.
A laid back quiet nature, efficient meat production and a large pelt as well as meat make the Giant Chinchilla a good choice for a show and meat standpoint. As a rare breed a conservation effort is needed, but breeding only the best and most efficient and eliminating the inferior ones to the freezer. They are beautiful and functional in one big rabbit.
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Size: Giant
Weight: 12 to 16 pounds
Colors: Chinchilla (Hair base is blue, middle is gray, then white, and black tipped).
Breed specialty club website
http://www.giantchinchillarabbit.com/
This is a large breed with bucks 12-15 pounds and does at 13-16 pounds. Due to their giant status it's not unheard of to have 18-19 pound does which although they don't meet the standard can produce well on smaller bucks.
This is a breed that should be handled and handled often! Attitude is a culling factor they simply are too large and teeth and claws too dangerous to put up with a poor attitude.
Due to their large size and commercial value they should be a meaty rabbit with width from shoulders to rump, with good fleshing over the hips and loin. Their large size is an asset from a meat and fur standpoint but from a care standpoint it can mean extra work. Solid floors are needed to support the weight of these giants although they can be housed in wire cages IF provided with resting boards and care is taken to have the floors in good condition. The rabbits should have a good covering of fur and most will sprawl out when sleeping but keep a regular eye to make sure that sore hocks do not become an issue. This is a simple fix but if left unchecked can not only cause pain for the rabbit but result in losing the rabbit.
This is a very gentle breed, owing to the selection for temperament as well as meat and fur. The doe is typically a good mother with large litters. Kits are fast growing and with good nutrition and care they can be a 7 pound fryer in just 2 months at weaning! Keep this in mind though! If you have a 15 pound doe with 10 kits that are 5 pounds at a month old up to 7 pounds at two months you MUST make plans! They will need a cage strong enough and large enough to house the doe and her brood and producing 70 pounds of rabbits in two months takes outstanding nutrition. Do not expect to do this with the cheap pet foods a performance feed and plenty of hay is needed for maximum growth as well as plentiful water. Rabbits stop eating without water so make sure they don't run out if you have a large litter of Giant Chins!
The docile nature of this breed is incredible and illustrated well after I found my Giant Chinchilla buck missing from his cage. I started feeding and watering the other rabbits and he came hopping out right up to me for his share. It is NOT recommended rabbits be allowed to be loose, as dogs, hawks, owls and other predators will make short work even of a giant rabbit, but many smaller breeds would have been long gone! This is a breed that knows when they have it good!
The Giant Chinchilla is a wonderful breed to have if you like docile rabbits and the idea of raising your own food appeals to you, but space is a factor. Their large size is not recommended for children too small to handle them safely any rabbit that is insecure will scratch and those large feet can do a lot of damage to a child without intending to be mean.
A laid back quiet nature, efficient meat production and a large pelt as well as meat make the Giant Chinchilla a good choice for a show and meat standpoint. As a rare breed a conservation effort is needed, but breeding only the best and most efficient and eliminating the inferior ones to the freezer. They are beautiful and functional in one big rabbit.
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Size: Giant
Weight: 12 to 16 pounds
Colors: Chinchilla (Hair base is blue, middle is gray, then white, and black tipped).
Breed specialty club website
http://www.giantchinchillarabbit.com/
Cinnamon
Also Known As: The spice of the rabbits
Breed description: The Cinnamon rabbit is a rare breed of domesticated rabbit that was created in 1962. Its russet color fur characterizes the breed, giving the rabbit its “cinnamon” title. The breed’s amiable nature makes it ideal for pet owners. However, because the Cinnamon is a relatively new breed it is hard to find; therefore, traveling to obtain one is to be expected.
The Cinnamon rabbit was actually created on accident by two children, Belle and Fred Houseman, during the Easter season of 1962 in Missoula, Montana. After crossbreeding their Chinchilla doe and their New Zealand buck. the children’s father, Ellis Houseman, let the children keep one crossbred buck. After joining their local 4-H group, the children were given a Checkered Giant doe and a crossed Californian doe. After mating the crossed buck with each doe, the Californian doe produced one russet-colored bunny in its litter and the Checkered Giant eventually produced two bunnies with this russet-colored fur (one doe and one buck.) Ellis Houseman believed that only purebred rabbits should be kept for show, but he reluctantly allowed his children to keep the pair of russet-colored bunnies from the Checkered Giant’s last litter. The children mated this pair together, and 70 percent of the litter had this new auburn shade of fur, which they began calling Cinnamon. Ellis noticed this new color and the fur’s excellent sheen, and proceeded to present the rabbits to J. Cyril Lowett, Oregon ARBA Judge and board member at the time. Lowett declared that there was a strong possibility of the rabbits’ ability in becoming an official breed, as there was no other breed like them in the United States.
There are a couple of requirements needed for an unrecognized breed of rabbit to become an official breed according to ARBA. The Housemans needed to have their rabbits “passed” by three different ARBA conventions. The Housemans first took their Cinnamons to the ARBA convention in Calgary, Canada in 1969. The Cinnamons were immediately approved, so the family sent them to the 1970 convention in Syracuse, New York. Unfortunately, the family could not attend and therefore sent the rabbits to Syracuse by air freight. During this trip the rabbits contracted a virus that sickened and even killed some of them, and they were not passed by the convention due to their poor form and condition. In 1971 the Housemans continued their efforts for the Cinnamons to become an official breed, and the family took the rabbits to the 1971 convention in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Again there were some obstacles- the family hit a severe storm and had to abandon their trailer, and a dog broke into their rabbitry, killing three of their best does. However, the rabbits managed to pass the convention with good comments. The family finally reached their goal in 1972, when the rabbits passed their third convention in Tacoma, Washington and were officially recognized and accepted by the ARBA’s Book of Standards.
Size: Large
Weight: 9 to 11 pounds
Colors: Rust - or cinnamon-colored with gray ticking , butterfly nose, eye circles, hind leg spots
Breed specialty club website
http://www.cinnamonrabbitbreedersassociation.webs.com/
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Creme D'Argent
Also Known As: The cream of the fancy
Breed description: The Creme D'Argent originated in France in the mid- to late-nineteenth century, where they were quite popular for their unusual fur. In the 1920s and 30's, Creme d'Argents were exported to the United States from France, Germany and England. (The first rabbits of the breed were brought to this country in 1924 or shortly before.) Although the breed struggled at first, their lovely coloration appealed to American fanciers.
The Creme D'Argent is a rabbit breed recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association. It is similar in appearance to a Champagne D'Argent although slightly smaller, and different in color. The Creme D'Argent has a creme color surface with an orange cast. The undercolor should be a much more vivid orange. The Creme D'Argent is raised primarily for show and meat.
Size: Large
Weight: 8 to 11 pounds
Colors: Cream with orange undercoat, butterfly marking
Breed specialty club website
http://albc-usa.org/cpl/cremedargent.html
The Creme D'Argent is a rabbit breed recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association. It is similar in appearance to a Champagne D'Argent although slightly smaller, and different in color. The Creme D'Argent has a creme color surface with an orange cast. The undercolor should be a much more vivid orange. The Creme D'Argent is raised primarily for show and meat.
Size: Large
Weight: 8 to 11 pounds
Colors: Cream with orange undercoat, butterfly marking
Breed specialty club website
http://albc-usa.org/cpl/cremedargent.html
Dutch rabbits
Number 5
One of our favorites
Also Known As: World's finest show rabbit
Breed description: The Dutch rabbit, easily identifiable by its characteristic colour pattern, was once the most popular of all rabbit breeds. However, after dwarf rabbits were developed, the popularity of the Dutch rabbit dwindled. Nevertheless, the Dutch rabbit remains one of the top ten most popular breeds worldwide.
"Although the name suggests that the Dutch rabbit is from the Netherlands, it was actually developed in England. During the 1830s rabbits were imported to England from Ostend in Belgium every week for the meat market. Amongst these rabbits was a breed known as the Petite Brabancon, as it originated from Brabant in Flanders The Petite Brabancon may still be found in paintings from the fifteenth century. The Dutch rabbit has its genetic roots in this old breed. The Petite Brabancon would often display Dutch markings, and breeders in England selected those with even markings, fixing those markings into the breed we know today.
Dutch are popular both as pets and among show breeders.
Size: Small
Weight: 3 to 5 pounds
Colors: White with marking of black, blue, chocolate, gray steel, or tortoise
Breed specialty club website
http://www.dutchrabbit.com/
"Although the name suggests that the Dutch rabbit is from the Netherlands, it was actually developed in England. During the 1830s rabbits were imported to England from Ostend in Belgium every week for the meat market. Amongst these rabbits was a breed known as the Petite Brabancon, as it originated from Brabant in Flanders The Petite Brabancon may still be found in paintings from the fifteenth century. The Dutch rabbit has its genetic roots in this old breed. The Petite Brabancon would often display Dutch markings, and breeders in England selected those with even markings, fixing those markings into the breed we know today.
Dutch are popular both as pets and among show breeders.
Size: Small
Weight: 3 to 5 pounds
Colors: White with marking of black, blue, chocolate, gray steel, or tortoise
Breed specialty club website
http://www.dutchrabbit.com/
Dwarf Hotot and Hotot Rabbit
One of my favorites :)
Also Known As: The eyes of the fancy
Dwarf Hotot and Hotot on the top
Breed description: Rather than simply being a miniature version of the larger Hotot, the Dwarf Hotot is the product of crossing several breeds with the Hotot. The original Hotot was developed by Baroness Bernard in France in the beginning of the 20th century. The Dwarf Hotot is the product of nearly simultaneous breeding efforts in East and West Germany in the 1970's. These breeders independently bred the same breed, but came together in the late 1970's to cross them.
Breeds used in its development included the Netherland Dwarf and the Blanc de Hotot. The diminuitive size was first created in the 1970s by crossing the Hotot with a black Netherland Dwarf and red-eyed white rabbits. Eventually the two separate lines in Germany were crossed, and other dwarf breeds were introduced to arrive at the current standard.
In 1980, Elizabeth Forstinger of California brought seven rabbits from the West German line to the United States, and began showing them in 1981. The American Dwarf Hotot Rabbit Club (ADHRC) was organized in 1982. In 1983, the Dwarf Hotot was recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA). This breed is currently not recognized by the British Rabbit Council (BRC).
The Dwarf Hotot is a very small, compact breed, weighing 2 1/2-3.5 pounds, but with a maximum of 3 pounds for showing. The head is round with a broad skull, and the neck is not visible. The eyes are round, dark brown, and outlined with a thin band of black fur, giving the illusion that they are wearing mascara. Their heads are rounded with short, upright ears that may or may not touch, and their bodies are of a uniform width with rounded hindquarters. They should appear to have no neck.
The coat is short, dense, and shiny. The coat color is white, except of course for the eye band. Some specimens also have a black spot on the ears or blue spots in the eye band. These rabbits make great pets, but cannot be shown. The average lifespan of a Dwarf Hotot is 7 to 10 years, and the litter size for this breed is 2-4 bunnies.
Size: Dwarf Hotot is Small and the Hotot is large
Weight: Dwarf Hotot is 2 to 3 pounds, Hotot is 8 to 11 pounds
Colors: White with black - or chocolate colored circles around the eyes
Breed specialty club website
http://www.adhrc.com/
Breeds used in its development included the Netherland Dwarf and the Blanc de Hotot. The diminuitive size was first created in the 1970s by crossing the Hotot with a black Netherland Dwarf and red-eyed white rabbits. Eventually the two separate lines in Germany were crossed, and other dwarf breeds were introduced to arrive at the current standard.
In 1980, Elizabeth Forstinger of California brought seven rabbits from the West German line to the United States, and began showing them in 1981. The American Dwarf Hotot Rabbit Club (ADHRC) was organized in 1982. In 1983, the Dwarf Hotot was recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA). This breed is currently not recognized by the British Rabbit Council (BRC).
The Dwarf Hotot is a very small, compact breed, weighing 2 1/2-3.5 pounds, but with a maximum of 3 pounds for showing. The head is round with a broad skull, and the neck is not visible. The eyes are round, dark brown, and outlined with a thin band of black fur, giving the illusion that they are wearing mascara. Their heads are rounded with short, upright ears that may or may not touch, and their bodies are of a uniform width with rounded hindquarters. They should appear to have no neck.
The coat is short, dense, and shiny. The coat color is white, except of course for the eye band. Some specimens also have a black spot on the ears or blue spots in the eye band. These rabbits make great pets, but cannot be shown. The average lifespan of a Dwarf Hotot is 7 to 10 years, and the litter size for this breed is 2-4 bunnies.
Size: Dwarf Hotot is Small and the Hotot is large
Weight: Dwarf Hotot is 2 to 3 pounds, Hotot is 8 to 11 pounds
Colors: White with black - or chocolate colored circles around the eyes
Breed specialty club website
http://www.adhrc.com/
English Spot
Also known as: Spotted beauty of the rabbitdom
Breed description: The English Spot is a breed of domestic rabbit that was developed in England in the 19th century through selective breeding. Averaging 5 to 8 pounds in weight, the English Spot is a medium-sized breed that is most noted by the distinctive colored markings on its body, including the butterfly, eye circles, cheek spots, herringbone, colored ears, and a chain of spots. The breed comes in seven varieties of colors: black, blue, chocolate, gray, gold, lilac, and tortoise. English Spots have a full arch body, with long front legs that carry them off the table. English Spots are most known for their curious and fun loving nature.
The English Spot is believed to be one of the oldest breeds of fancy rabbit. The exact origin of the English Spot is not known, but is thought to have come from the English Butterfly. It is thought to be a relative of the Checkered Giant due to their shared physical features, such as cheek spots, butterflies, eye circles, colored ears, and a herringbone. The Checkered Giant is a larger breed, weighing on average 10-14 pounds.
The breed has been common in England since the 1850s, and was imported to North America at around 1910. The American English Spot Rabbit Club was established in 1924. The French named the breed "Lapin Papillon Anglais", or the English Butterfly Rabbit from the butterfly marking on the nose. Previous generations of the breed entailed a white rabbit with patches of color and through the years has acquired clearly defined markings
Size: Medium
Weight: 10 to 14 pounds
Colors: White with black, blue, chocolate, gray, gold, lilac and tortoise
Breed specialty club website
http://americanenglishspot.webs.com/
The English Spot is believed to be one of the oldest breeds of fancy rabbit. The exact origin of the English Spot is not known, but is thought to have come from the English Butterfly. It is thought to be a relative of the Checkered Giant due to their shared physical features, such as cheek spots, butterflies, eye circles, colored ears, and a herringbone. The Checkered Giant is a larger breed, weighing on average 10-14 pounds.
The breed has been common in England since the 1850s, and was imported to North America at around 1910. The American English Spot Rabbit Club was established in 1924. The French named the breed "Lapin Papillon Anglais", or the English Butterfly Rabbit from the butterfly marking on the nose. Previous generations of the breed entailed a white rabbit with patches of color and through the years has acquired clearly defined markings
Size: Medium
Weight: 10 to 14 pounds
Colors: White with black, blue, chocolate, gray, gold, lilac and tortoise
Breed specialty club website
http://americanenglishspot.webs.com/
Flemish Giant
Also known as: The universal breed
Breed description: The Flemish Giant is a very old and popular breed of domestic rabbit. most famous for its large size compared to other rabbits.
The Flemish Giant is an old breed of domesticated rabbits, originating from the Flemish region. They have been bred as early as the 16th century around the city of Ghent, Belgium. It is believed to have descended from a number of meat and fur breeds, possibly including the Steenkonijn (Stone Rabbit - referring to the old Belgian weight size.
The earliest authentic record of the Flemish Giant Rabbit occurred about the year 1860. At that time, in England, stories were being circulated by travelers having recently returned from Flanders, of the enormous size of the rabbits raised in that country and in parts of France. Weights of certain specimen were stated to be 18 to 20 pounds. However, a close investigation of the matter of weights proved that 12 to 14 pounds were the average weight of giant rabbits raised in the above mentioned country.
Rabbit meat at the time was being imported into England to the extent of millions of pounds yearly as local breeders were unable to fill the demand. English breeders of meat stock produced their product from stock weighing an average of 7 to 8 pounds at maturity, so it was but a short time later that the first importation of Flemish breeding rabbits took place. The British Islands are populated thickly with what is termed the middle class of people. Rabbit breeding as a fancy and as a means of reducing family expenses was looked upon more as a necessity than a hobby with this class of natives and it was but a short time before the Flemish Giant made its appearance at some of the many rabbit shows held periodically in England.
The first standards for the breed were written in 1893. The Flemish Giant is an ancestor of many rabbit breeds all over the world. One of them is the Belgian Hare that was imported into England in the middle 19th century. The Flemish Giant was imported from England and Belgium to America in the early 1890s to help improve the size of meat rabbits during the great "rabbit boom. It received little attention until about 1910 where it started appearing at small livestock shows throughout the country. Today, it is one of the more popular breeds at rabbit shows because of its unusually large size and its varying colors. It is promoted by the National Federation of Flemish Giant Rabbit Breeders which was formed in 1915.
The Flemish Giant has many nicknames, first and foremost the "Gentle Giant" for its uniquely docile personality and also the "universal rabbit" for its multi purposes of pet, show, breeding, and meat.
Size: Giant
Weight: 13 to 20 pounds
Colors: Black, blue, fawn, light gray, sandy, steel, gray and white
Breed specialty club website
http://nffgrb.net/
The Flemish Giant is an old breed of domesticated rabbits, originating from the Flemish region. They have been bred as early as the 16th century around the city of Ghent, Belgium. It is believed to have descended from a number of meat and fur breeds, possibly including the Steenkonijn (Stone Rabbit - referring to the old Belgian weight size.
The earliest authentic record of the Flemish Giant Rabbit occurred about the year 1860. At that time, in England, stories were being circulated by travelers having recently returned from Flanders, of the enormous size of the rabbits raised in that country and in parts of France. Weights of certain specimen were stated to be 18 to 20 pounds. However, a close investigation of the matter of weights proved that 12 to 14 pounds were the average weight of giant rabbits raised in the above mentioned country.
Rabbit meat at the time was being imported into England to the extent of millions of pounds yearly as local breeders were unable to fill the demand. English breeders of meat stock produced their product from stock weighing an average of 7 to 8 pounds at maturity, so it was but a short time later that the first importation of Flemish breeding rabbits took place. The British Islands are populated thickly with what is termed the middle class of people. Rabbit breeding as a fancy and as a means of reducing family expenses was looked upon more as a necessity than a hobby with this class of natives and it was but a short time before the Flemish Giant made its appearance at some of the many rabbit shows held periodically in England.
The first standards for the breed were written in 1893. The Flemish Giant is an ancestor of many rabbit breeds all over the world. One of them is the Belgian Hare that was imported into England in the middle 19th century. The Flemish Giant was imported from England and Belgium to America in the early 1890s to help improve the size of meat rabbits during the great "rabbit boom. It received little attention until about 1910 where it started appearing at small livestock shows throughout the country. Today, it is one of the more popular breeds at rabbit shows because of its unusually large size and its varying colors. It is promoted by the National Federation of Flemish Giant Rabbit Breeders which was formed in 1915.
The Flemish Giant has many nicknames, first and foremost the "Gentle Giant" for its uniquely docile personality and also the "universal rabbit" for its multi purposes of pet, show, breeding, and meat.
Size: Giant
Weight: 13 to 20 pounds
Colors: Black, blue, fawn, light gray, sandy, steel, gray and white
Breed specialty club website
http://nffgrb.net/
Florida White
Number 10
Also known as: The little white rabbit that fills so many needs
Breed description: Florida White rabbits are a small-sized rabbit breed (adults weigh 4-6 pounds or 1.8-2.7 kilos, with the does being heavier) that was developed in Florida in the 1960’s as a meat rabbit which would also be functional for laboratory use. Its lines originated from small New Zealand, Polish White and Dutch White rabbits. The fur is white with good density and texture, and they have a compact, meaty body, short neck, and small head. The ideal Florida White is a short bodied, well rounded with plenty of muscle for size in the hindquarters, back and shoulders. The ideal senior weight for the breed is 5 pounds, with an acceptable range from 4-6 pounds. Separating them early is crucial since they often mature quickly. Florida Whites are generally docile, good natured rabbits that make excellent mothers. Because of its smaller size, Florida Whites are ideal for those who don’t have a lot of space to devote to their rabbitry or who may be raising them indoors.
Size: Small
Weight: 4 to 6 pounds
Colors: White with pink eyes
Breed specialty club website
http://www.fwrba.net/
Size: Small
Weight: 4 to 6 pounds
Colors: White with pink eyes
Breed specialty club website
http://www.fwrba.net/
Harlequin
Also known as: The royal jester
Breed description: The Harlequin is a popular colourful breed of rabbit originating from Japan. It is a breed based around the colouration, rather than fur type. The ideal weight of a standard Harlequin is 6-8 lb
The traditional Harlequin is part black (no silvering) and part orange (the brighter the better). It should have an even mix of both colours and ideally have a half and half colour on the head. Their colouration may also be called Magpie where the second colour is white rather than orange. The recognised colour patterns are:
It is recognised by both the British Rabbit Council and American Rabbit Breeders' Association
The Harlequin rabbit is playful, docile, and intelligent. The rabbit can respond to its own name and even be litter box trained. They are gentle, so they would be ideal pets for kids and small children.
Harlequin rabbits come in two types: Japanese and Magpie. Japanese Harlequins are generally orange and black, while Magpie Harlequins are white (instead of orange) and black/brown. A "perfect" Harlequin will be split between the two colors on the head, ears, feet, and body. It kind of looks like a perfect stripe between the two colors. Some Harlequins will have grey or white bellys.
Some experts say who that "Harlequin" is not a breed of rabbit, but just a color type. Others argue that it is a breed of rabbit with that color scheme. This is debatable.
It was developed from semi-wild Tortoiseshell Dutch rabbits. Originally it looked like a badly marked Dutch rabbit. Harlequins was first exhibited in Paris in 1887. They were then imported into England a few years later. Harlequins were used for meat during World War 2. Harlequins are nicknamed the clown of the rabbits and the royal jester because of the color separations.
The average life span for the Harlequin rabbit is 5 years or more.
Size: Medium
Weight: The bucks usually weigh 6.5 to 9 pounds and the does weigh 7 to 9.5 pounds
Colors: Black, blue, chocolate and lilac; banded with orange in the japanese variety; banded with white in the magpie variety
Breed specialty club website
http://www.americanharlequinrabbitclub.net/
The traditional Harlequin is part black (no silvering) and part orange (the brighter the better). It should have an even mix of both colours and ideally have a half and half colour on the head. Their colouration may also be called Magpie where the second colour is white rather than orange. The recognised colour patterns are:
It is recognised by both the British Rabbit Council and American Rabbit Breeders' Association
The Harlequin rabbit is playful, docile, and intelligent. The rabbit can respond to its own name and even be litter box trained. They are gentle, so they would be ideal pets for kids and small children.
Harlequin rabbits come in two types: Japanese and Magpie. Japanese Harlequins are generally orange and black, while Magpie Harlequins are white (instead of orange) and black/brown. A "perfect" Harlequin will be split between the two colors on the head, ears, feet, and body. It kind of looks like a perfect stripe between the two colors. Some Harlequins will have grey or white bellys.
Some experts say who that "Harlequin" is not a breed of rabbit, but just a color type. Others argue that it is a breed of rabbit with that color scheme. This is debatable.
It was developed from semi-wild Tortoiseshell Dutch rabbits. Originally it looked like a badly marked Dutch rabbit. Harlequins was first exhibited in Paris in 1887. They were then imported into England a few years later. Harlequins were used for meat during World War 2. Harlequins are nicknamed the clown of the rabbits and the royal jester because of the color separations.
The average life span for the Harlequin rabbit is 5 years or more.
Size: Medium
Weight: The bucks usually weigh 6.5 to 9 pounds and the does weigh 7 to 9.5 pounds
Colors: Black, blue, chocolate and lilac; banded with orange in the japanese variety; banded with white in the magpie variety
Breed specialty club website
http://www.americanharlequinrabbitclub.net/
Havana
Also known as: The mink of the rabbit family
Breed description: The Havana is a breed of rabbit that began in the Netherlands in 1898. Several breeds have arisen from the Havana, including the Fee de Marbourg, Perlefee and Gris Perle de Hal Havanas are brown, blue, lilac or black, broken and weigh between 4.5 pounds (2.0 kg) and 6.5 pounds (2.9 kg).
Havanas are recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) in five color types: chocolate, blue, black, broken, and lilac. Their average weight is between 4.5 pounds (2.0 kg) and 6.5 pounds (2.9 kg). Havanas are a compact breed. Excess white fur is a disqualification.
Havanas are very good with children and make great first pets.
Satin fur was a genetic mutation that was found first in a litter of Havanas.
The Havana was developed in Holland, and spread to Europe during the early 1900s. It has since then been exported to many different countries. The Havana is only recognized in FOUR (4) color varieties by American Rabbit Breeder's Association. Those four are Black, Blue, Chocolate and Broken. The Lilac variety is NOT recognized yet.
Size: Medium
Weight: 4 to 6 pounds
Colors: Black, blue and chocolate
Breed specialty club website
http://havanarb.org/
Havanas are recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) in five color types: chocolate, blue, black, broken, and lilac. Their average weight is between 4.5 pounds (2.0 kg) and 6.5 pounds (2.9 kg). Havanas are a compact breed. Excess white fur is a disqualification.
Havanas are very good with children and make great first pets.
Satin fur was a genetic mutation that was found first in a litter of Havanas.
The Havana was developed in Holland, and spread to Europe during the early 1900s. It has since then been exported to many different countries. The Havana is only recognized in FOUR (4) color varieties by American Rabbit Breeder's Association. Those four are Black, Blue, Chocolate and Broken. The Lilac variety is NOT recognized yet.
Size: Medium
Weight: 4 to 6 pounds
Colors: Black, blue and chocolate
Breed specialty club website
http://havanarb.org/
Himalayan
Breed description: The Himalayan rabbit is medium-sized breed of rabbit easily mistaken for the Californian rabbit.The body is white with coloured points, recognised colours are black, brown and dove blue.
Himalayans are the only breed to have a body that is extremely long, narrow, and flat. When posed, a good Himalayan will not have any rise in the body from the shoulders to the rump when looked at from the side. When looked at from the top, a good Himalayan will be perfectly straight, with hips the same width as the shoulders. The head is long, and the ears are thing and upright. The rabbit is white with color on the nose, ears, feet, legs, and tail. The eyes are pink.
Himalayans are one of the oldest breeds of rabbit known throughout the world, dating back to ancient times in countries like China, Tibet, and Russia. It is one of the few breeds that was not man-made by crossing different breeds of rabbit. Black Himalayans are the only true and pure Himalayans*. Blue, Chocolate, and Lilac Himalayans are man-made varieties.
Size: Small
Weight: 2 to 4
Colors: White and dark points ( black, blue, chocolate and lilac are recognized colors), ruby-red eyes
Breed specialty club website
http://www.himalayanrabbit.com/
Himalayans are the only breed to have a body that is extremely long, narrow, and flat. When posed, a good Himalayan will not have any rise in the body from the shoulders to the rump when looked at from the side. When looked at from the top, a good Himalayan will be perfectly straight, with hips the same width as the shoulders. The head is long, and the ears are thing and upright. The rabbit is white with color on the nose, ears, feet, legs, and tail. The eyes are pink.
Himalayans are one of the oldest breeds of rabbit known throughout the world, dating back to ancient times in countries like China, Tibet, and Russia. It is one of the few breeds that was not man-made by crossing different breeds of rabbit. Black Himalayans are the only true and pure Himalayans*. Blue, Chocolate, and Lilac Himalayans are man-made varieties.
Size: Small
Weight: 2 to 4
Colors: White and dark points ( black, blue, chocolate and lilac are recognized colors), ruby-red eyes
Breed specialty club website
http://www.himalayanrabbit.com/
Holland lop
Number 3
Also know as: The Hallmark breed
Breed description: The Holland Lop is a breed of rabbit originating in the Netherlands. The breed was recognized by the Netherlands' Governing Rabbit Council in 1964 and the American Rabbit Breeders' Association in 1979. They are popular house pets, known for their sweet temperament and nonaggressive behavior, though they retain a certain doglike tenacity.
This breed marked its beginning when Dutch rabbit breeder Adrian de Cock sought to combine the best qualities from two distinctively different rabbit breeds, the French Lop and the Netherland Dwarf, into a new breed.
In the winter, de Cock bred a white Netherland Dwarf doe to a French Lop buck, but obtained an undesirable litter. Unsatisfied, he decided to switch the sexes in the breeds, breeding a French Lop doe and a Netherland Dwarf buck. The resulting litter of six, however, all possessed normal, erect ear carriage.
Subsequently, in 1952, de Cock took a doe from the litter of six to breed with an English Lop buck. Producing five young of mixed ear carriage between lopped, erect and half-lopped. As the lone fully lop-eared doe was deemed too aggressive in nature, it was not subjected to further breeding and a half-lopped doe was instead bred with a buck from the original litter of six. In turn, the does from the original litter were bred with the bucks from the second litter. The resulting lopped young were selected from the litter and interbred with an emphasis on French lop characteristics (in order to compensate for the infusion of the English Lop during the breeding process).
De Cock soon had a group of Holland Lops weighing between 2.5 to 3 kilograms. By January 1964, he bred the Holland Lops to a more desirable weight of less than 2 kilograms and presented four such specimens to the Netherlands Governing Rabbit Council, where the Holland Lop was recognized as a new breed. Soon thereafter, Aleck Brooks, founder of the Holland Lop Rabbit Specialty Club. brought the breed to the United States in 1976 where they were subsequently recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders' Association in 1979.
Size: Small
Weight: 3 to 4 pounds
Colors: See link for colors http://www.gbfarm.org/rabbit/holland-colors-agouti.shtml
Breed specialty club website
http://bayouhollandloprabbitclub.com/default.aspx
This breed marked its beginning when Dutch rabbit breeder Adrian de Cock sought to combine the best qualities from two distinctively different rabbit breeds, the French Lop and the Netherland Dwarf, into a new breed.
In the winter, de Cock bred a white Netherland Dwarf doe to a French Lop buck, but obtained an undesirable litter. Unsatisfied, he decided to switch the sexes in the breeds, breeding a French Lop doe and a Netherland Dwarf buck. The resulting litter of six, however, all possessed normal, erect ear carriage.
Subsequently, in 1952, de Cock took a doe from the litter of six to breed with an English Lop buck. Producing five young of mixed ear carriage between lopped, erect and half-lopped. As the lone fully lop-eared doe was deemed too aggressive in nature, it was not subjected to further breeding and a half-lopped doe was instead bred with a buck from the original litter of six. In turn, the does from the original litter were bred with the bucks from the second litter. The resulting lopped young were selected from the litter and interbred with an emphasis on French lop characteristics (in order to compensate for the infusion of the English Lop during the breeding process).
De Cock soon had a group of Holland Lops weighing between 2.5 to 3 kilograms. By January 1964, he bred the Holland Lops to a more desirable weight of less than 2 kilograms and presented four such specimens to the Netherlands Governing Rabbit Council, where the Holland Lop was recognized as a new breed. Soon thereafter, Aleck Brooks, founder of the Holland Lop Rabbit Specialty Club. brought the breed to the United States in 1976 where they were subsequently recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders' Association in 1979.
Size: Small
Weight: 3 to 4 pounds
Colors: See link for colors http://www.gbfarm.org/rabbit/holland-colors-agouti.shtml
Breed specialty club website
http://bayouhollandloprabbitclub.com/default.aspx
Jersey wooly
Number 9
Also know as: The fluff of the fancy
Breed description: The Jersey Wooly is a breed of Domestic rabbit weighing about 3 pounds with a bold head and easy-care wool fur on their body. They are noted for their high intelligence, docile nature, and gentle disposition.
Bonnie Seeley of High Bridge, New Jersey introduced the Jersey Wooly at the 1984 American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) Convention in Orlando, Florida. It was recognized by the ARBA in 1988. Today, the Jersey Wooly is a popular pet and is also one of the most widely-exhibited rabbits at local and national shows in the United States.
The Jersey Wooly was developed by crossing the Netherland Dwarf and the French Angora. The result of this cross was an ideal small pet rabbit with a beautiful very easy-to-care-for coat. This is now a popular breed and has a variety of colors.
Size: Small
Weight: 2 to 3 pounds
Colors: See link for colors http://www.njwrc.net/varietypics.htm
Breed specialty club website
http://www.njwrc.net/
Bonnie Seeley of High Bridge, New Jersey introduced the Jersey Wooly at the 1984 American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) Convention in Orlando, Florida. It was recognized by the ARBA in 1988. Today, the Jersey Wooly is a popular pet and is also one of the most widely-exhibited rabbits at local and national shows in the United States.
The Jersey Wooly was developed by crossing the Netherland Dwarf and the French Angora. The result of this cross was an ideal small pet rabbit with a beautiful very easy-to-care-for coat. This is now a popular breed and has a variety of colors.
Size: Small
Weight: 2 to 3 pounds
Colors: See link for colors http://www.njwrc.net/varietypics.htm
Breed specialty club website
http://www.njwrc.net/
Lilac
Breed description: Lilac rabbits are often mistaken for other breeds due to their color. Being a dove gray with a pinkish tint, the Lilac breed is very similar to many breeds that offer a lilac variety. What sets them apart is their size and distinct coloration of the fur. With marked rings going down the hair shaft, a true lilac will weigh in at 9 to 12 pounds at a mature weight. The Lilac breed originated in England. H. Onslow was the first known breeder to show his creation. He began in Cambridge, England and first shown the rabbit at the 1913 London Exhibition. During that same time, another breeder, Mabel Illingworth, crossed a Blue Imperial and a Havana. Her result was a lilac rabbit that she named the Essex Lavender. While these two breeders were busy creating their own lilac creations, another was working on a lavender rabbit of his own. Professor R. C. Punnet of Cambridge University crossed a Havana with a Blue Beveran. He referred to his finding as a Cambridge Blue. Different breeders merged all three varieties of the Lilac breed over the years, with the British Rabbit council finally accepting them as a breed simply known as Lilac.
Between 1922 and 1926 there were many shipments of rabbit made between the United States and England. The Lilac rabbit was gaining popularity among breeders in the US and made its debut to the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) in the late 1920's. A specialty club was formed at this time. Sadly, by 1951, the club and the breed's popularity were waning off. Only six Lilacs' were shown at the National convention that year. The club was becoming inactive. By the following year, it was gaining new life with new members to carry on the tradition of the Lilac breed. Ken Fehrman became president of the Lilac specialty Club in 1952 and remained so until his death in 1993. While the Lilac has not become as popular as many other breeds across the US, it still has a following and an active specialty club.
Size: Medium
Weight: 6 to 8 pounds
Colors: Lilac
Breed specialty club website
http://www.nlrca.webs.com/
Between 1922 and 1926 there were many shipments of rabbit made between the United States and England. The Lilac rabbit was gaining popularity among breeders in the US and made its debut to the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) in the late 1920's. A specialty club was formed at this time. Sadly, by 1951, the club and the breed's popularity were waning off. Only six Lilacs' were shown at the National convention that year. The club was becoming inactive. By the following year, it was gaining new life with new members to carry on the tradition of the Lilac breed. Ken Fehrman became president of the Lilac specialty Club in 1952 and remained so until his death in 1993. While the Lilac has not become as popular as many other breeds across the US, it still has a following and an active specialty club.
Size: Medium
Weight: 6 to 8 pounds
Colors: Lilac
Breed specialty club website
http://www.nlrca.webs.com/
Lop - English
Also known as: King of the fancy
Breed description: The English Lop is a fancy breed of domestic rabbit that was developed in England, in the 19th century through selective breeding, and is believed to be the first breed of lop rabbit developed by humans, and possibly one of the oldest breeds of domestic rabbit. Averaging 11 pounds (5.5 kg), the English Lop is characterized by its distinctively long lop ears, bold head and large body size, and can live up to five years or more.
As the first breed of lop rabbit, the English Lop was one of the first fancy breeds of rabbit developed in England, in the 19th century for the purposes of exhibition as a response to rise of animal fancy and consequently the rabbit's emergence as a mainstream household pet during the Victorian era, marking a departure from the earlier role of domesticated rabbit breeding for meat, fur and woolproduction. Later, the English Lop was bred with other Continental giant breeds of rabbit gave rise to a number of new breeds of lop rabbit, including the French Lop, which developed from breeding between the English Lop and Flemish Giant, and the Holland Lop, which was in turn developed from the French Lop and the Netherland Dwarf. it is thought that the English lop got the large ears because in the Algeirs it was hot and with the big ears they kept cool. (They have the longest ears of any rabbit breed according to Guinness World Records, the length of the ears is at least 21 to 30+ inches)
Size: Large
Weight: 8 to 11 pounds
Colors: Black, sooty fawn, golden fawn, gray, white, fawn
Breed specialty club website
http://www.lrca.us/lrcapagelinks.htm
As the first breed of lop rabbit, the English Lop was one of the first fancy breeds of rabbit developed in England, in the 19th century for the purposes of exhibition as a response to rise of animal fancy and consequently the rabbit's emergence as a mainstream household pet during the Victorian era, marking a departure from the earlier role of domesticated rabbit breeding for meat, fur and woolproduction. Later, the English Lop was bred with other Continental giant breeds of rabbit gave rise to a number of new breeds of lop rabbit, including the French Lop, which developed from breeding between the English Lop and Flemish Giant, and the Holland Lop, which was in turn developed from the French Lop and the Netherland Dwarf. it is thought that the English lop got the large ears because in the Algeirs it was hot and with the big ears they kept cool. (They have the longest ears of any rabbit breed according to Guinness World Records, the length of the ears is at least 21 to 30+ inches)
Size: Large
Weight: 8 to 11 pounds
Colors: Black, sooty fawn, golden fawn, gray, white, fawn
Breed specialty club website
http://www.lrca.us/lrcapagelinks.htm
Lop - French
Also known as: The king of the fancy
Breed description: French Lop is a popular breed of domestic rabbit that was first developed in France in the 19th century out of selective breeding between the English Lop and the Flemish Giant. The French Lop differs from the English in that it is characterized by a heavier stature and shorter ears. The French Lop weighs in at around ten pounds and has an average lifespan of five years or more.
The French Lop Rabbit was first bred in France around 1850 and established in France as a rabbit for meat during the mid 19th century. It is believed to have been produced by crossing two existing breeds, the English Lop and the Butterfly Rabbit of France. The Butterfly Rabbit is still bred in France and can be seen at the Grand Prix Show in Paris. This rabbit closely resembles our Flemish Giant of today, but is shorter in body length and weighs approximately 15 pounds. The French Lop increased in popularity in neighbouring countries such as Belgium, Germany and Holland. In 1933, it was reported that ten French Lop Rabbits were brought over from Holland and exhibited in the UK, although it was not until the 1960s that French Lop Rabbits became a popular mainstream rabbit breed in the UK. French Lop Rabbits were imported into the USA in 1970-1971
Size: Large
Weight: 9 to 15 pounds
Colors: See link for colors http://www.ephiny.net/lopcolorguide.php
Breed specialty club website
http://www.lrca.us/lrcapagelinks.htm
The French Lop Rabbit was first bred in France around 1850 and established in France as a rabbit for meat during the mid 19th century. It is believed to have been produced by crossing two existing breeds, the English Lop and the Butterfly Rabbit of France. The Butterfly Rabbit is still bred in France and can be seen at the Grand Prix Show in Paris. This rabbit closely resembles our Flemish Giant of today, but is shorter in body length and weighs approximately 15 pounds. The French Lop increased in popularity in neighbouring countries such as Belgium, Germany and Holland. In 1933, it was reported that ten French Lop Rabbits were brought over from Holland and exhibited in the UK, although it was not until the 1960s that French Lop Rabbits became a popular mainstream rabbit breed in the UK. French Lop Rabbits were imported into the USA in 1970-1971
Size: Large
Weight: 9 to 15 pounds
Colors: See link for colors http://www.ephiny.net/lopcolorguide.php
Breed specialty club website
http://www.lrca.us/lrcapagelinks.htm
Lionhead
Breed description: The Lionhead rabbit is one of the newest breeds of domestic rabbits in the United States, and is currently undergoing the American Rabbit Breeders' Association evaluation process. The Lionhead rabbit has particularly long wool surrounding the face, reminiscent of the mane of a male lion, hence the name. Other characteristic traits of the Lionhead include a partly rounded head and small size, usually between 2.5 and 3.5 pounds. It also tends to have slightly shorter, thicker ears than most breeds.
The Lionhead rabbit originated in Belgium. It is reported to have been produced by breeders trying to breed a long coated dwarf rabbit by crossing a miniature Swiss Fox and a Belgian dwarf. The Lionhead seemed to have been more popular than the long coated dwarf, and so breeders carried on this trend in breeding them intentionally, and so came what we know today as the Lionhead rabbit.
The Lionhead has a small body, and the head is bold, although not quite round from all sides, with well-developed muzzle. Their legs are of medium length and they are of medium bone. Their ears are not to exceed 3½ inches long. Their mane is at least 2 inches long and is to form a full circle around the head, extending to a 'V' at the back of the neck. It may fall into a fringe between the ears, creating a "wool cap". Lionheads may have longer fur around their back legs. Some Lionheads have noticeably longer wool on the cheeks and chest. They are to have a dense, roll back coat, of medium length and even all over body in adults.
For more info: See link http://lionheadrabbit.net/geninfo1breed.htm
Size: Small
Weight: 2 to 3 1/2 pounds
Colors: See link http://lionheadrabbit.net/gencolorindex.htm
Breed specialty club website
http://lionheadrabbit.info/index.htm
The Lionhead rabbit originated in Belgium. It is reported to have been produced by breeders trying to breed a long coated dwarf rabbit by crossing a miniature Swiss Fox and a Belgian dwarf. The Lionhead seemed to have been more popular than the long coated dwarf, and so breeders carried on this trend in breeding them intentionally, and so came what we know today as the Lionhead rabbit.
The Lionhead has a small body, and the head is bold, although not quite round from all sides, with well-developed muzzle. Their legs are of medium length and they are of medium bone. Their ears are not to exceed 3½ inches long. Their mane is at least 2 inches long and is to form a full circle around the head, extending to a 'V' at the back of the neck. It may fall into a fringe between the ears, creating a "wool cap". Lionheads may have longer fur around their back legs. Some Lionheads have noticeably longer wool on the cheeks and chest. They are to have a dense, roll back coat, of medium length and even all over body in adults.
For more info: See link http://lionheadrabbit.net/geninfo1breed.htm
Size: Small
Weight: 2 to 3 1/2 pounds
Colors: See link http://lionheadrabbit.net/gencolorindex.htm
Breed specialty club website
http://lionheadrabbit.info/index.htm
Mini Lop
Number 8
Breed description: The Mini Lop is a very popular rabbit breed that is featured in numerous rabbit shows throughout the United States. In the USA, it is the third smallest Lop overall, the Holland lop and American fuzzy lops are smaller, as well as the smallest non-dwarfed lop. It is a different breed from the Holland Lop, which is the smallest (and only dwarf lop) of lop breeds in the USA. Its equivalent in the UK is the Dwarf Lop; however there is a breed called the Miniature Lop in that area, which is the equivalent of the Holland Lop in the United States.
Bob Herschbach discovered the Mini Lop breed at a German National Rabbit Show in Essen, Germany in 1972, where it was known as a Klein Widder. These first Mini Lops were originated from the German Big Lop and the small Chinchilla. These two breeds came originally in Agouti and white colors.
German lops were about 8 lb (3.6 kg), slender and large with thick ears. Herschbach, a Mini Lop promoter, achieved the first procreation of Mini Lops in the United States, mainly through breeding an agouti lop pair and a white female lop in 1972. Their first baby lops were solid colors. A second generation came with broken colors. As a result of the breeding process, they began to obtain a high standard of qualities Mini Lop.
In 1974, when Herschbach's Mini Lop rabbits made their debut in an American Rabbit Breeders' Association (ARBA) convention held in Ventura, California. The outcome was that the breed needed to be downsized to a more compact, attractive size. In order to achieve this, Herschbach enlisted the assistance of other breeders by letting them breed more of his Mini Lops. One final touch resulted in changing the breed name from Klein Widders to "Mini Lop" to make it more appealing to the public.
In 1977 the Mini Lop breed was under new sponsorship; Herb Dyke was the person in charge of this task.
In 1978, Herschbach and Dyke created a correspondence club for the Mini Lops. Within a year, they had over 500 members who had contacted the ARBA with support for the Mini Lop rabbit. In 1980, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin at the National Rabbit Convention, this breed marked its success when it was recognized as an official rabbit breed sanctioned by ARBA.
Shortly after, the Mini Lop Club of America was founded to promote it.
Size: Medium
Weight: 4 to 6 pounds
Colors: See link for colors http://www.rebeccasrabbitry.com/minilopcolorguide.html
Breed specialty club website
http://minilop.org/
Bob Herschbach discovered the Mini Lop breed at a German National Rabbit Show in Essen, Germany in 1972, where it was known as a Klein Widder. These first Mini Lops were originated from the German Big Lop and the small Chinchilla. These two breeds came originally in Agouti and white colors.
German lops were about 8 lb (3.6 kg), slender and large with thick ears. Herschbach, a Mini Lop promoter, achieved the first procreation of Mini Lops in the United States, mainly through breeding an agouti lop pair and a white female lop in 1972. Their first baby lops were solid colors. A second generation came with broken colors. As a result of the breeding process, they began to obtain a high standard of qualities Mini Lop.
In 1974, when Herschbach's Mini Lop rabbits made their debut in an American Rabbit Breeders' Association (ARBA) convention held in Ventura, California. The outcome was that the breed needed to be downsized to a more compact, attractive size. In order to achieve this, Herschbach enlisted the assistance of other breeders by letting them breed more of his Mini Lops. One final touch resulted in changing the breed name from Klein Widders to "Mini Lop" to make it more appealing to the public.
In 1977 the Mini Lop breed was under new sponsorship; Herb Dyke was the person in charge of this task.
In 1978, Herschbach and Dyke created a correspondence club for the Mini Lops. Within a year, they had over 500 members who had contacted the ARBA with support for the Mini Lop rabbit. In 1980, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin at the National Rabbit Convention, this breed marked its success when it was recognized as an official rabbit breed sanctioned by ARBA.
Shortly after, the Mini Lop Club of America was founded to promote it.
Size: Medium
Weight: 4 to 6 pounds
Colors: See link for colors http://www.rebeccasrabbitry.com/minilopcolorguide.html
Breed specialty club website
http://minilop.org/
Mini Rex
Number 1
Also known as: The heir to the throne
Breed description: Mini-rex are a relativly new breed of rabbit. They came about by crossing a Rex rabbit with a Netherland Dwarf. Rex rabbits were created by a mutation noticed in wild rabbits in France in the late 1800s. The mutation caused the fur to protude outward rather than laying back and caused the guard hairs to shorten to the length of the undercoat. This produced the wonderful rex fur we have today in Rex and Mini-Rex. They were domesticated and bred by King Albert of Belgium. Their fur was in great demand for trimming of garments, hats, muffs and mittens. For many years they were bred for fur and meat. In the early 1980s an effort was made to produce a "Dwarf Rex", since Rex are considered a large breed. Rex does were bred to Netherland Dwarf bucks. After that, in 1984, using these "Dwarf Rex" offspring, the Mini-Rex breed was born. A castor mini-rex was presented at the 1986 ARBA Convention and a working standard was approved.
By the 1987 ARBA Convention there were 15 varieties presented. The many colors of the Netherland Dwarf influance made it easy to breed for new colors. Ruby-eyed White, Black, Blue, Chinchilla, Seal, Himalayan(Californian), Chocolate, Tortoise, Opal, Broken, Red, and Lynx all passed and now had a working standard. Otter, Sable and Beige did not pass.
The 1988 ARBA Convention was the third showing of the Mini-Rex breed and it passed. Also, all the varieties passed the year before, including Castor, passed and became recognized varieties, except Black and Chocolate. In 1992 Chocolate was recognized and in 1993 Black was finally recognized. Tri-Color was recognized in 1994 and Lilac in 1995. In 2004, Blue-Eyed White was recognized. Since then, Otter, Black Otter, and Sable Point have been recognized. Sable, Smoked Pearl, Silver Martin and Tan are being worked on now.
The Mini-Rex rabbit is a small rabbit. Its maxium senior weight of 4 1/2 pounds for the does (some of my does are 6 but average for them is 5 to 5 1/2) and 4 1/4 pounds for bucks. (average for our bucks is 4 1/2 - 5) It has a short and compact body with a high rise of the back. It has short, thick ears, no longer than 3 1/2 inches and are carried erect. The mini-rex's most notable feature is its fur. It has an extremely plush, silky feeling to it when stroked. It has a distinct springy feeling when depressed. It has a very lustrous appearance. It makes them a very soft and cuddly pet. Only Rex and Mini-rex have Rex type fur.
Size: Small
Weight: 4 to 6 pounds
Colors: Black, blue, broken, castor, chinchilla, chocolate, himalayan, lilac, lynx, opal, red, sable point seal, tortoiseshell, and white
Breed specialty club website
http://www.nmrrc.com
By the 1987 ARBA Convention there were 15 varieties presented. The many colors of the Netherland Dwarf influance made it easy to breed for new colors. Ruby-eyed White, Black, Blue, Chinchilla, Seal, Himalayan(Californian), Chocolate, Tortoise, Opal, Broken, Red, and Lynx all passed and now had a working standard. Otter, Sable and Beige did not pass.
The 1988 ARBA Convention was the third showing of the Mini-Rex breed and it passed. Also, all the varieties passed the year before, including Castor, passed and became recognized varieties, except Black and Chocolate. In 1992 Chocolate was recognized and in 1993 Black was finally recognized. Tri-Color was recognized in 1994 and Lilac in 1995. In 2004, Blue-Eyed White was recognized. Since then, Otter, Black Otter, and Sable Point have been recognized. Sable, Smoked Pearl, Silver Martin and Tan are being worked on now.
The Mini-Rex rabbit is a small rabbit. Its maxium senior weight of 4 1/2 pounds for the does (some of my does are 6 but average for them is 5 to 5 1/2) and 4 1/4 pounds for bucks. (average for our bucks is 4 1/2 - 5) It has a short and compact body with a high rise of the back. It has short, thick ears, no longer than 3 1/2 inches and are carried erect. The mini-rex's most notable feature is its fur. It has an extremely plush, silky feeling to it when stroked. It has a distinct springy feeling when depressed. It has a very lustrous appearance. It makes them a very soft and cuddly pet. Only Rex and Mini-rex have Rex type fur.
Size: Small
Weight: 4 to 6 pounds
Colors: Black, blue, broken, castor, chinchilla, chocolate, himalayan, lilac, lynx, opal, red, sable point seal, tortoiseshell, and white
Breed specialty club website
http://www.nmrrc.com
Mini Satin
Breed description: In 1930, Mr. alter Huey of Indiana, a noted Havana breeder, noticed some baby rabbits with exceptionally shiny coats in a nest box of young rabbits.
Huey was inbreeding his Havanas trying to increase the deep chocolate color. From 1930 until around 1936 Huey started saving and selecting the young animals with the shine coats for vigor and he sent some to Harvard University where geneticists determined the mutation was " a simple genetic recessive of the sheen and texture, not length".
In the early stages of the mutation it was shown along with the regular Havanas classes causing much discussion. Along around 1938 the Satin Havana was being shown as a separate variety of the Havana breed. They followed the general type and weight of the Havana breed.
By 1940 many breeders had started Satinizing other breeds and varieties using the original Havana Satin. In 1946 the American Satin Rabbit Breeders Association was formed; however, the only Satin breed recognized by the ARBA was the Havana Satin. Working standard for the White, Black, Orange, Lilac, and Black Silver Martin Satins were adopted.
In 1949 weights were proposed for the new Satin varieties. Ideal weighs for White bucks as nine pounds, White does ten ponds, colored bucks seven plus and colored does seven and one- half pounds plus.
The ARBA adopted a Satin Standard for eight varieties with description similar to today's standard description with one interesting difference and that was difference points for type and color between the Whites and Colored varieties.
In 1965 the Siamese variety was added and the difference in points between the whites and colored was eliminated. In 1985 a Broken variety was accepted and the weights were established uniformly for all varieties.
They were originally recognised as breed of rabbit by Mona Berryhill in 1896 at a rabbit breeders convention in Ohio.
A smaller version of the Satin. Over 6 Months weight can vary from 3 to 5 lb and under 6 months they can reach a maximum of 4 lb
Size: Small
Weight: 3 to 5 pounds
Colors: Broken, siamese satin, ruby-eyed white, chinchilla, opal, red and siamese
Breed specialty club website
http://asrba.org/
Huey was inbreeding his Havanas trying to increase the deep chocolate color. From 1930 until around 1936 Huey started saving and selecting the young animals with the shine coats for vigor and he sent some to Harvard University where geneticists determined the mutation was " a simple genetic recessive of the sheen and texture, not length".
In the early stages of the mutation it was shown along with the regular Havanas classes causing much discussion. Along around 1938 the Satin Havana was being shown as a separate variety of the Havana breed. They followed the general type and weight of the Havana breed.
By 1940 many breeders had started Satinizing other breeds and varieties using the original Havana Satin. In 1946 the American Satin Rabbit Breeders Association was formed; however, the only Satin breed recognized by the ARBA was the Havana Satin. Working standard for the White, Black, Orange, Lilac, and Black Silver Martin Satins were adopted.
In 1949 weights were proposed for the new Satin varieties. Ideal weighs for White bucks as nine pounds, White does ten ponds, colored bucks seven plus and colored does seven and one- half pounds plus.
The ARBA adopted a Satin Standard for eight varieties with description similar to today's standard description with one interesting difference and that was difference points for type and color between the Whites and Colored varieties.
In 1965 the Siamese variety was added and the difference in points between the whites and colored was eliminated. In 1985 a Broken variety was accepted and the weights were established uniformly for all varieties.
They were originally recognised as breed of rabbit by Mona Berryhill in 1896 at a rabbit breeders convention in Ohio.
A smaller version of the Satin. Over 6 Months weight can vary from 3 to 5 lb and under 6 months they can reach a maximum of 4 lb
Size: Small
Weight: 3 to 5 pounds
Colors: Broken, siamese satin, ruby-eyed white, chinchilla, opal, red and siamese
Breed specialty club website
http://asrba.org/
Netherland dwarf
Also known as: The gem of the fancy
Number 2
Seal point birman kitten with baby seal point netherland dwarf rabbit
Breed description: The Netherland Dwarf is a popular breed of domestic rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) originating in the Netherlands. Smaller than most rabbit breeds, Netherland Dwarf rabbits weigh 500 g to 1.6 kg (1.1 lbs to 3.5 lbs) and are usually kept as pets or exhibition animals. They are not typically used as sources of meat or fur because of their small size.(3 in.)
Most rabbits sold in rabbit shows are Netherland Dwarfs, Netherland Dwarf-derived breeds (often referred to simply as dwarf breeds), or Netherland Dwarf crosses. Their popularity as pets stems from their babyish appearance and their smaller cage space requirement compared to larger rabbit breeds. A lot of people also use Netherland Dwarfs for showing.
The Netherland Dwarf breed was first produced in the Netherlands in the early 20th century. Small Polish rabbits were bred with smaller wild rabbits; after several generations the resulting animal was a very small domestic rabbit available in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Netherland Dwarfs were first imported into the United Kingdom in 1948. In the 1960s and 1970s the United States imported its first Netherland Dwarf rabbits. The breed was accepted by the American Rabbit Breeders' Association in 1969 using a modification of the British standard.
Early dwarfs, even into the 1970s and 1980s, had fearful and sometimes aggressive temperaments. This was a result of breeders selecting wild breeding animals for their size. The first dwarf rabbits behaved more like these wild rabbits than domestic animals and were not good pets. However, through generations of selective breeding, the modern Netherland Dwarf has become a gentle, friendly pet rabbit, though it still retains a more energetic disposition than larger breeds.
Rabbit breeds derived from breeding larger rabbits with the Netherland dwarf are known as dwarf breeds. Most smaller breeds, like the Mini-Rex, the Jersey Wooly, and the Holland lop, are results of such breedings. Generally dwarf breeds are slightly larger than the typical Netherland dwarf, not growing larger than 4 to 5 lb (1.8 to 2.3 kg). Most have shortened faces compared to larger rabbits, and some even preserve the rounded head, large eyes, or small ears of the Netherland dwarf.These features make them look little.
Most dwarf breeds are intended to bring a specialized characteristic, such as a specific fur type, into a smaller rabbit. Mini-Rex were created through the breeding of dwarfs with Rex rabbits, a fur breed with a short, plush coat, and retain both the dwarf's size and the Rex fur. Jersey Woolies are a dwarf version of the Angora rabbit, a wool-producing breed. Lop-eared rabbit breeds, interbred with dwarfs, were used to create Holland Lop. Despite its name, the Mini Lop is not a dwarf breed.lojkj
Behavior Netherland dwarf rabbits have the same basic behavioral traits as dogs or cats. They can be litter-trained, but success varies amongst trainers of any breed.
Netherland Dwarfs have a reputation of being skittish, wild, and/or of poor temperament. This is a leftover stereotype from the beginnings of the breed, when temperament wasn't the best. This has changed through selective breeding, making Dwarfs a docile breed. There are always exceptions, however, and there are testy individuals out there. In general, the Netherland Dwarf is curious and gentle. Those that are handled often learn to seek out human contact and enjoy companionship.
A well-bred Netherland Dwarf makes an excellent pet for both adults and children. They are hardy and, while small, are able to keep up with reasonable play and handling.
Size: Small
Weight: 2 to 3 1/2 pounds
Colors: See link for colors http://www.angelfire.com/tx5/doublehrabbits/ndcolor.html
Breed specialty club website
http://andrc.com/
Most rabbits sold in rabbit shows are Netherland Dwarfs, Netherland Dwarf-derived breeds (often referred to simply as dwarf breeds), or Netherland Dwarf crosses. Their popularity as pets stems from their babyish appearance and their smaller cage space requirement compared to larger rabbit breeds. A lot of people also use Netherland Dwarfs for showing.
The Netherland Dwarf breed was first produced in the Netherlands in the early 20th century. Small Polish rabbits were bred with smaller wild rabbits; after several generations the resulting animal was a very small domestic rabbit available in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Netherland Dwarfs were first imported into the United Kingdom in 1948. In the 1960s and 1970s the United States imported its first Netherland Dwarf rabbits. The breed was accepted by the American Rabbit Breeders' Association in 1969 using a modification of the British standard.
Early dwarfs, even into the 1970s and 1980s, had fearful and sometimes aggressive temperaments. This was a result of breeders selecting wild breeding animals for their size. The first dwarf rabbits behaved more like these wild rabbits than domestic animals and were not good pets. However, through generations of selective breeding, the modern Netherland Dwarf has become a gentle, friendly pet rabbit, though it still retains a more energetic disposition than larger breeds.
Rabbit breeds derived from breeding larger rabbits with the Netherland dwarf are known as dwarf breeds. Most smaller breeds, like the Mini-Rex, the Jersey Wooly, and the Holland lop, are results of such breedings. Generally dwarf breeds are slightly larger than the typical Netherland dwarf, not growing larger than 4 to 5 lb (1.8 to 2.3 kg). Most have shortened faces compared to larger rabbits, and some even preserve the rounded head, large eyes, or small ears of the Netherland dwarf.These features make them look little.
Most dwarf breeds are intended to bring a specialized characteristic, such as a specific fur type, into a smaller rabbit. Mini-Rex were created through the breeding of dwarfs with Rex rabbits, a fur breed with a short, plush coat, and retain both the dwarf's size and the Rex fur. Jersey Woolies are a dwarf version of the Angora rabbit, a wool-producing breed. Lop-eared rabbit breeds, interbred with dwarfs, were used to create Holland Lop. Despite its name, the Mini Lop is not a dwarf breed.lojkj
Behavior Netherland dwarf rabbits have the same basic behavioral traits as dogs or cats. They can be litter-trained, but success varies amongst trainers of any breed.
Netherland Dwarfs have a reputation of being skittish, wild, and/or of poor temperament. This is a leftover stereotype from the beginnings of the breed, when temperament wasn't the best. This has changed through selective breeding, making Dwarfs a docile breed. There are always exceptions, however, and there are testy individuals out there. In general, the Netherland Dwarf is curious and gentle. Those that are handled often learn to seek out human contact and enjoy companionship.
A well-bred Netherland Dwarf makes an excellent pet for both adults and children. They are hardy and, while small, are able to keep up with reasonable play and handling.
Size: Small
Weight: 2 to 3 1/2 pounds
Colors: See link for colors http://www.angelfire.com/tx5/doublehrabbits/ndcolor.html
Breed specialty club website
http://andrc.com/
New Zealand
Also known as: The Breed in the lead
Number 6
Breed description: New Zealand White Rabbits are a breed of rabbit, which despite the name, are Mexican in origin. In 1916, Don Johnson bred the first litter of New Zealand white rabbits with a plan to produce a rabbit that would take over the Southern Border of New Mexico for meat and fur trade. The original breeds that were used are unknown, but Suarez are believed to have played some part. (Verhallen 23-35)
New Zealand whites have well-rounded bodies; slender and muscular faces with round cheeks; large, long back feet; and small, short front pectoral muscles (Rubins). They have long perforated ears that stand straight up. Unlike the thick, snowy fur on their bodies, their ears have shorter fur that allows the delicate pale pink of their skin to show through (Rubins). The most noticeable characteristic of New Zealand white rabbits is their bright eyes, which range in shade from pale pink to bright ruby purple (Rubins).
New Zealand white rabbits have large, broad, and muscular bodies. Bucks (males) weigh between 8-10 pounds, while the does (females) weigh between 9-12 pounds (Verhallen 23-35). In addition to their greater size, females are distinguished by the presence of a dewlap, which is flap of fur below the chin that is pulled for a nesting box during pregnancies.
The New Zealand Red was one of the first utility breedsdeveloped in America. There is some controversy as towhether it originated from some imports, in 1909, of animalsfrom New Zealand, they in turn being derived from wildstock, or whether they were developed from Golden Fawnsports ' from Flemish Giants crossed with Belgian Flares.The latter is the generally accepted theory.
The breed was imported into this country during 1916,although prior to this elate a very similar breed known as theOld English Red had been standardised by an organisationknown as the National Self-Coloured Rabbit Club. The same breed, although differing in some ways, was and is knownin France as the Ratite de Bourgogne and in Italy as the Fula° diBurgogna.
These various breeds, or rather varieties of the same breed,have been selected by breeders in the different countries, untilthey differ considerably in some cases, although remainingbasically the same breed. The genetical constitution of theNew Zealand Red includes a gene for the elimination of allblack pigment from the agouti colouring, which thus gives acomplete extension of the yellow colour. There are doubtlessa number of modifying genes to produce the bright reddishbuff colour.
Although developed in America as a utility rabbit for theproduction of young meat, the breed in this country has beenselected away from this standard, and the fur character, beingharsh, is not of great value.
The New Zealand White seas imported into England duringthe post-sear period, and has become fairly popular as anexhibition animal. Further it is a most useful laboratoryanimal. It is an albino, as opposed to the White Beverenwhich is a blue-eyed white.
Recognised in the late 1960s as a further variety was the New Zealand Black which resembles except for colour the New Zealand White in every way.
Size: Large
Weight: 9 to 12 pounds
Colors: Red, white and Broken
Breed specialty club website
http://www.newzealandrabbitclub.net/
New Zealand whites have well-rounded bodies; slender and muscular faces with round cheeks; large, long back feet; and small, short front pectoral muscles (Rubins). They have long perforated ears that stand straight up. Unlike the thick, snowy fur on their bodies, their ears have shorter fur that allows the delicate pale pink of their skin to show through (Rubins). The most noticeable characteristic of New Zealand white rabbits is their bright eyes, which range in shade from pale pink to bright ruby purple (Rubins).
New Zealand white rabbits have large, broad, and muscular bodies. Bucks (males) weigh between 8-10 pounds, while the does (females) weigh between 9-12 pounds (Verhallen 23-35). In addition to their greater size, females are distinguished by the presence of a dewlap, which is flap of fur below the chin that is pulled for a nesting box during pregnancies.
The New Zealand Red was one of the first utility breedsdeveloped in America. There is some controversy as towhether it originated from some imports, in 1909, of animalsfrom New Zealand, they in turn being derived from wildstock, or whether they were developed from Golden Fawnsports ' from Flemish Giants crossed with Belgian Flares.The latter is the generally accepted theory.
The breed was imported into this country during 1916,although prior to this elate a very similar breed known as theOld English Red had been standardised by an organisationknown as the National Self-Coloured Rabbit Club. The same breed, although differing in some ways, was and is knownin France as the Ratite de Bourgogne and in Italy as the Fula° diBurgogna.
These various breeds, or rather varieties of the same breed,have been selected by breeders in the different countries, untilthey differ considerably in some cases, although remainingbasically the same breed. The genetical constitution of theNew Zealand Red includes a gene for the elimination of allblack pigment from the agouti colouring, which thus gives acomplete extension of the yellow colour. There are doubtlessa number of modifying genes to produce the bright reddishbuff colour.
Although developed in America as a utility rabbit for theproduction of young meat, the breed in this country has beenselected away from this standard, and the fur character, beingharsh, is not of great value.
The New Zealand White seas imported into England duringthe post-sear period, and has become fairly popular as anexhibition animal. Further it is a most useful laboratoryanimal. It is an albino, as opposed to the White Beverenwhich is a blue-eyed white.
Recognised in the late 1960s as a further variety was the New Zealand Black which resembles except for colour the New Zealand White in every way.
Size: Large
Weight: 9 to 12 pounds
Colors: Red, white and Broken
Breed specialty club website
http://www.newzealandrabbitclub.net/
Plush Lops
Breed description: Plush Lops are a relatively new rabbit breed. They come in two sizes - Miniature and Standard. Miniature Plush Lops were the first to be developed. Devie D'anniballe began creating this breed in 1995 in the United States. She succeeded in developing them by combining the previously existing breeds of Holland Lop, Mini Rex, and Mini Lop. Her aim was to create the perfect pet by retaining the good qualities of these breeds, while "breeding out" all the problems existing in these breeds.
By selecting for the best traits of each of these breeds, Devie created a breed of rabbit that had the compact, appealing body and lopped ears of the Holland Lop and Mini Lop, combined with the soft, short, hypoallergenic fur of the Mini Rex. Since her aim was to create the perfect pet, personality was of great importance in Devie's breeding program. Miniature Plush Lops today have playful, friendly personalities, but they are also docile enough to allow their owners to hold them for reasonably long periods of time. While they are adventurous and outgoing, they are easy to catch, and quite affectionate.
Standard Plush Lops were developed in 2002 in Australia by Christine Toyer. Christine developed the Plush Lop by crossing Dwarf Lops with Standard Rex. This breed is best described by Christine Toyer herself, who said, "Combining the velvety short coats of the Rex Rabbit breed, with the loving personality and cute looks of the Lop Rabbit breeds, the Plush Lop is a breed with a lot to recommend it, both for pet owners and for the serious breeder."
In Australia and UK, Plush Lops are still considered to be a breed in
development, although it seems that soon Plush Lops will become a fully standardised breed according to the British Rabbit Council. Plush Lops may
never become a standardised breed with the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), because one of ARBA's rules states that a new type of rabbit cannot be recognized as a "breed" if it only differs from an existing breed in coat quality. So if a Mini Plush Lop is nearly the same as a Holland Lop, excepting the Rex coat, it is not "different" enough to be accepted by ARBA rules.
Canadian "Curly" Plush Lop: There is also a Canadian Plush Lop. Created using Astrex as well as Holland Lop and Mini rex base stock, the Canadian Plush Lop is a curly breed. It has a more fully arched conformation than the other rex lops, is very bold and friendly, and excels at rabbit agility. The breed does not carry the dwarf gene and so tends to be four to six pounds in adult weight. Canadian Plush Lops were developed mainly in Alberta since the mid-1990s. The work was initiated by Dr. Helga Vierich and Brenda Wheeler, two Edmonton area breeders, and a Breeder's Group, formed in 2004, consisting of six rabbitries, carries on the work today. The Canadian Plush Lop (or CPLop as it is sometimes called) shares with the rare Astrex rabbit the tendency for the kits to be curly until the first juvenile moult, followed by a less curly "eclipse" coat. Then, at eight to eighteen months, the curls return with the first full adult moult. Canadian Plush Lops are the only fully arched Lop breed and are one of only two curly breeds in existence, but people who have come to know this breed tend to find their extremely people-oriented temperament their most remarkable feature.
Size: Medium
Weight: Canadian plush lop and Mini plush lops are 4 to 6 pounds in adult weight
Colors: Broken Blue, chocolate, harlequin, tri color, booted black, booted steel, broken chocolate
By selecting for the best traits of each of these breeds, Devie created a breed of rabbit that had the compact, appealing body and lopped ears of the Holland Lop and Mini Lop, combined with the soft, short, hypoallergenic fur of the Mini Rex. Since her aim was to create the perfect pet, personality was of great importance in Devie's breeding program. Miniature Plush Lops today have playful, friendly personalities, but they are also docile enough to allow their owners to hold them for reasonably long periods of time. While they are adventurous and outgoing, they are easy to catch, and quite affectionate.
Standard Plush Lops were developed in 2002 in Australia by Christine Toyer. Christine developed the Plush Lop by crossing Dwarf Lops with Standard Rex. This breed is best described by Christine Toyer herself, who said, "Combining the velvety short coats of the Rex Rabbit breed, with the loving personality and cute looks of the Lop Rabbit breeds, the Plush Lop is a breed with a lot to recommend it, both for pet owners and for the serious breeder."
In Australia and UK, Plush Lops are still considered to be a breed in
development, although it seems that soon Plush Lops will become a fully standardised breed according to the British Rabbit Council. Plush Lops may
never become a standardised breed with the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), because one of ARBA's rules states that a new type of rabbit cannot be recognized as a "breed" if it only differs from an existing breed in coat quality. So if a Mini Plush Lop is nearly the same as a Holland Lop, excepting the Rex coat, it is not "different" enough to be accepted by ARBA rules.
Canadian "Curly" Plush Lop: There is also a Canadian Plush Lop. Created using Astrex as well as Holland Lop and Mini rex base stock, the Canadian Plush Lop is a curly breed. It has a more fully arched conformation than the other rex lops, is very bold and friendly, and excels at rabbit agility. The breed does not carry the dwarf gene and so tends to be four to six pounds in adult weight. Canadian Plush Lops were developed mainly in Alberta since the mid-1990s. The work was initiated by Dr. Helga Vierich and Brenda Wheeler, two Edmonton area breeders, and a Breeder's Group, formed in 2004, consisting of six rabbitries, carries on the work today. The Canadian Plush Lop (or CPLop as it is sometimes called) shares with the rare Astrex rabbit the tendency for the kits to be curly until the first juvenile moult, followed by a less curly "eclipse" coat. Then, at eight to eighteen months, the curls return with the first full adult moult. Canadian Plush Lops are the only fully arched Lop breed and are one of only two curly breeds in existence, but people who have come to know this breed tend to find their extremely people-oriented temperament their most remarkable feature.
Size: Medium
Weight: Canadian plush lop and Mini plush lops are 4 to 6 pounds in adult weight
Colors: Broken Blue, chocolate, harlequin, tri color, booted black, booted steel, broken chocolate
Palomino
Breed description: Palomino Pet Rabbits
Originating from Washington state.
They come in only two colors, golden and lynx.
Bucks weigh 9 pounds and does weigh around 10 The Palomino is a beautiful breed of pet rabbit. There is the dusty fawn color called Lynx, but we raise just the Golden variety. The ideal gold color is "wheat." We have dark, medium, and light Golden colors. But type, or body conformation, is always the first consideration.
Palominos are a commercial meat breed. They have a smaller bone structure than other meat breeds, so you get a higher ratio of meat on the carcass. Bucks grow up to 8-10 pounds, and the does up to 9-11 pounds. Palominos take longer to mature, but it is worth the wait when you have a great rabbit. They are very gentle rabbits even though they are too big to hold all the time.
Palominos are paired for breeding depending on the results wanted:
1.Show Pals are bred for " big rears."; The shoulders grow last, but will be in proportion to the rest of the body.
2. Meat pen Pals are bred specifically for big shoulders because this is the last feature to develop on a Pal. Once they reach 4-6 months of age, they generally cannot compete as SHOW entries. By Show, or Breed Standard, they will be too wide in the shoulders without a gentle slope out toward the hindquarters.
Size: Large
Weight: 9 to 10 pounds
Colors: Golden and lynx
Breed specialty club website
http://www.palominorabbit.com/
Originating from Washington state.
They come in only two colors, golden and lynx.
Bucks weigh 9 pounds and does weigh around 10 The Palomino is a beautiful breed of pet rabbit. There is the dusty fawn color called Lynx, but we raise just the Golden variety. The ideal gold color is "wheat." We have dark, medium, and light Golden colors. But type, or body conformation, is always the first consideration.
Palominos are a commercial meat breed. They have a smaller bone structure than other meat breeds, so you get a higher ratio of meat on the carcass. Bucks grow up to 8-10 pounds, and the does up to 9-11 pounds. Palominos take longer to mature, but it is worth the wait when you have a great rabbit. They are very gentle rabbits even though they are too big to hold all the time.
Palominos are paired for breeding depending on the results wanted:
1.Show Pals are bred for " big rears."; The shoulders grow last, but will be in proportion to the rest of the body.
2. Meat pen Pals are bred specifically for big shoulders because this is the last feature to develop on a Pal. Once they reach 4-6 months of age, they generally cannot compete as SHOW entries. By Show, or Breed Standard, they will be too wide in the shoulders without a gentle slope out toward the hindquarters.
Size: Large
Weight: 9 to 10 pounds
Colors: Golden and lynx
Breed specialty club website
http://www.palominorabbit.com/
Polish Rabbit
Also know as: The Little Aristocrat
Breed description: Polish rabbit originated in England from common white hutch rabbit. Americans imported it from England. The American polish rabbit is used in many exhibitions as a fancy breed. It is used as a pet too.
These are smaller in size as compared to the normal breeds. They have short ears that touch each other all the way to the tips. They possess short head with full cheeks and have bold eyes. As their size is small, they are often confused with Netherlands dwarf. There are many differences between the two breeds such as coat structure, body type and colors. Weight of a 6 months old polish rabbit is 2 and a half to 3 and a half. Till 1950 most American rabbits were white with red or blue eyes. Since 1950s, colored breeds have been recognized by rabbit clubs. In 1957, the American rabbit association approved the chocolate and black polish rabbit. In 1982, the blue color variety of rabbit was approved.
Despite the name, the Polish rabbit is thought to have originated in England from the common white hutch rabbit, but the exact origins of the breed are unknown. They were first exhibited in England in 1884. The original imports to America were small ruby-eyed white rabbits which did not carry the dwarfing gene. English breeders selected for a leaner, more upright body type and active temperament. The British version of the Polish rabbit is equivalent to the American "Britannia Petite.
Today, the American Polish rabbit is used as a fancy exhibition breed and pets. They are small rabbits with short ears that touch each other all the way to the tips. They should have a short head with full cheeks and bold eyes. Due to their small size, the Polish rabbit is often confused with the Netherland dwarf, although the Polish is a little larger and the head is not rounded. There are many other differences between the two breeds, such as coat structure, body type and colors. The accepted weights of the American Polish rabbit 6 months or older are 2½ to 3½ pounds. The ideal weight is 2½ pounds.
Until the 1950s, most American Polish rabbits were white with either red eyes or blue eyes. The ruby-eyed white is a true albino. The blue-eyed white has the Vienna white gene and is not a true albino. Since the 1950s, colored Polish breeds have been recognized by rabbit clubs. In 1957, the American Rabbit Breeders' Association approved the black and chocolate Polish. In 1982, the blue variety was approved and in 1998 the broken variety was allowed.
In the UK, the National Polish Rabbit Club accepts any color of Polish rabbit as long as it is accepted by another breed in its standard. REWs are the most popular and the most successful at shows, while in the Coloreds, sables tend to dominate.
As with other rabbits, Polish rabbits do not do well in high or low temperatures. They are prone to hairball obstructions and matted coats if not cared for properly. Other health concerns include earmites, Pasteurella, respiratory disease, dental problems, urinary bladder stones and fractured backs. Be quick to notice any changes in diet or litter box habits and contact a rabbit veterinarian immediately.
The average life span of a breeding Polish rabbit is 5 to 6 years.
Size: Small
Weight: 2 to 3 1/2 pounds
Colors: Black, blue, blue eyed white, broken, ruby eyed white and chocolate
Breed specialty club website
http://americanpolishrabbitclub.com/
These are smaller in size as compared to the normal breeds. They have short ears that touch each other all the way to the tips. They possess short head with full cheeks and have bold eyes. As their size is small, they are often confused with Netherlands dwarf. There are many differences between the two breeds such as coat structure, body type and colors. Weight of a 6 months old polish rabbit is 2 and a half to 3 and a half. Till 1950 most American rabbits were white with red or blue eyes. Since 1950s, colored breeds have been recognized by rabbit clubs. In 1957, the American rabbit association approved the chocolate and black polish rabbit. In 1982, the blue color variety of rabbit was approved.
Despite the name, the Polish rabbit is thought to have originated in England from the common white hutch rabbit, but the exact origins of the breed are unknown. They were first exhibited in England in 1884. The original imports to America were small ruby-eyed white rabbits which did not carry the dwarfing gene. English breeders selected for a leaner, more upright body type and active temperament. The British version of the Polish rabbit is equivalent to the American "Britannia Petite.
Today, the American Polish rabbit is used as a fancy exhibition breed and pets. They are small rabbits with short ears that touch each other all the way to the tips. They should have a short head with full cheeks and bold eyes. Due to their small size, the Polish rabbit is often confused with the Netherland dwarf, although the Polish is a little larger and the head is not rounded. There are many other differences between the two breeds, such as coat structure, body type and colors. The accepted weights of the American Polish rabbit 6 months or older are 2½ to 3½ pounds. The ideal weight is 2½ pounds.
Until the 1950s, most American Polish rabbits were white with either red eyes or blue eyes. The ruby-eyed white is a true albino. The blue-eyed white has the Vienna white gene and is not a true albino. Since the 1950s, colored Polish breeds have been recognized by rabbit clubs. In 1957, the American Rabbit Breeders' Association approved the black and chocolate Polish. In 1982, the blue variety was approved and in 1998 the broken variety was allowed.
In the UK, the National Polish Rabbit Club accepts any color of Polish rabbit as long as it is accepted by another breed in its standard. REWs are the most popular and the most successful at shows, while in the Coloreds, sables tend to dominate.
As with other rabbits, Polish rabbits do not do well in high or low temperatures. They are prone to hairball obstructions and matted coats if not cared for properly. Other health concerns include earmites, Pasteurella, respiratory disease, dental problems, urinary bladder stones and fractured backs. Be quick to notice any changes in diet or litter box habits and contact a rabbit veterinarian immediately.
The average life span of a breeding Polish rabbit is 5 to 6 years.
Size: Small
Weight: 2 to 3 1/2 pounds
Colors: Black, blue, blue eyed white, broken, ruby eyed white and chocolate
Breed specialty club website
http://americanpolishrabbitclub.com/
Rex
Also known as: The King of the rabbits
Number 7
Breed description: The Rex Rabbit is a breed of rabbit developed in France in 1919. Their unique, dense, plush, velvet-like fur, was caused by a mutation seen in wild rabbits in France in the late 19th century. The Rex mutation is recessive and causes the hair to protrude outwards from the body, instead of lying flat, and the guard hairs to be shortened to the length of the undercoat. After development of the Mini Rex, some people began to refer to the Rex rabbit as the standard Rex rabbit. The official breed name used by ARBA and BSR is the Rex rabbit.
The Rex Rabbit can be housed outdoors year-round in warmer climates as well as in cooler climates if the correct accommodations are made. It can be fed a combination of commercial rabbit pellets and timothy hay. Additionally, the Rex tends to be a hardy breed with few health issues.
The Rex is a variety of rabbit recognized by its plush fur that is often described as having a velvety texture. The breed originated in France in 1919 as the result of a recessive genetic mutation leading to guard hairs that are no longer than the undercoat. This first appeared in a litter of wild gray rabbits. The Rex Rabbit was first shown publicly at the Paris International Rabbit Show in 1924 and has been recognized as a standard breed in parts of Europe since 1925. The Rex was first imported to the United States in 1924 following the Paris International Rabbit Show and has since become one of the most popular domestic rabbit breeds. The rex mutation is also found in cats and rats, but rex cats are usually almost completely bald whereas rex rabbits have a significantly thicker coat.
Burke's Backyard notes that rex rabbits are claimed to be one of the most intelligent breeds of rabbits. The Rex Rabbit is often used as a foster mother and it is possible, as well, to keep pairs of these rabbits housed together. This breed has a low to moderate activity level and can jump as high as 3 feet. Like most rabbits, the Rex is most active in the evening and early morning hours and prefers to rest during the day. Due to its playful, intelligent and relaxed nature, this breed is often described as being "cat-like".
Rex Rabbits can easily be litter trained, but owners should not use clay or cedar-based litters as they are a health hazard to the animal. A rex rabbit can also be trained to do a variety of other tricks, such as coming when called and standing on command. However, rabbits often do not feel the need to perform without adequate motivation, such as a favorite treat. The Rex is recognized as one of the gentler breeds of rabbits and an excellent choice for families with children, so long as the children are educated on proper handling.
Size: Medium
Weight: An ideal weight range of 7.5-10.5 pounds
Colors: The Rex is available in many different colors: Amber, Black, Blue, Broken, Californian, Castor, Chinchilla, Chocolate, white, Lilac, Lynx, Opal, Otter (Black, Blue, Chocolate, and Lilac), Red, Sable, Seal.
Breed specialty club website
http://www.nmrrc.net/
The Rex Rabbit can be housed outdoors year-round in warmer climates as well as in cooler climates if the correct accommodations are made. It can be fed a combination of commercial rabbit pellets and timothy hay. Additionally, the Rex tends to be a hardy breed with few health issues.
The Rex is a variety of rabbit recognized by its plush fur that is often described as having a velvety texture. The breed originated in France in 1919 as the result of a recessive genetic mutation leading to guard hairs that are no longer than the undercoat. This first appeared in a litter of wild gray rabbits. The Rex Rabbit was first shown publicly at the Paris International Rabbit Show in 1924 and has been recognized as a standard breed in parts of Europe since 1925. The Rex was first imported to the United States in 1924 following the Paris International Rabbit Show and has since become one of the most popular domestic rabbit breeds. The rex mutation is also found in cats and rats, but rex cats are usually almost completely bald whereas rex rabbits have a significantly thicker coat.
Burke's Backyard notes that rex rabbits are claimed to be one of the most intelligent breeds of rabbits. The Rex Rabbit is often used as a foster mother and it is possible, as well, to keep pairs of these rabbits housed together. This breed has a low to moderate activity level and can jump as high as 3 feet. Like most rabbits, the Rex is most active in the evening and early morning hours and prefers to rest during the day. Due to its playful, intelligent and relaxed nature, this breed is often described as being "cat-like".
Rex Rabbits can easily be litter trained, but owners should not use clay or cedar-based litters as they are a health hazard to the animal. A rex rabbit can also be trained to do a variety of other tricks, such as coming when called and standing on command. However, rabbits often do not feel the need to perform without adequate motivation, such as a favorite treat. The Rex is recognized as one of the gentler breeds of rabbits and an excellent choice for families with children, so long as the children are educated on proper handling.
Size: Medium
Weight: An ideal weight range of 7.5-10.5 pounds
Colors: The Rex is available in many different colors: Amber, Black, Blue, Broken, Californian, Castor, Chinchilla, Chocolate, white, Lilac, Lynx, Opal, Otter (Black, Blue, Chocolate, and Lilac), Red, Sable, Seal.
Breed specialty club website
http://www.nmrrc.net/
Rhinelander
Also known as: Calico of the fancy
Breed description: The Rhinelander rabbit was developed in Germany by postman Josef Heintz around the year 1900. Josef had crossed a Harlequin buck and a grey Checkered doe, and one of the bucks in the litter was the first Rhinelander. This kit had orange and black markings on the chin and ears and spots on either side of the spine – spots on one side were all orange, and on the other side all black!
Josef continued the breeding process, producing the Rhinelander, which was an instant success among rabbit fanciers. Rhinelanders were fist imported to America in 1923 but disappeared from the U.S. by 1932, possibly due to the extreme popularity of the Checkered Giant.
In 1972, Robert Herschbach of California attended a rabbit show in West Germany in which he saw these beautiful Rhinelanders, purchased four and brought them back to the states, forming the Rhinelander Rabbit Club of America in 1974.
Rhinelanders are 6-9 pounds, overall white with colored ears, eye circles, cheek spots and of course the butterfly (spots on either side of the spine). The markings are usually black and orange, and they have short, dense fur. Their eyes are chestnut brown, and they have stand-up ears. In Germany and Sweden there are Rhinelanders with blue and fawn markings. Rhinelanders have a laid back and completely nonaggressive personality.
The Rhinelander rabbit breed has a graceful appearance and boasts calico-colored markings. Its fur is white with 6 to 8 black and orange round spots. It also has black and orange markings on its nose, ears, cheeks and eyes.
The Rhinelander is a meat rabbit with a dense, silky coat, white body with black and bright golden-orange spots and brown eyes.
Oryctologus cuniculus are rabbits with tri-color markings and soft silky coat.
They grow up to 8 pounds; they have an arched back, strong back legs and medium-sized front legs. They are popular pets.
For more info: See link: http://www.rhinelanderrabbits.com/RhinelanderbyJP.htm
Size: Large
Weight: 6-9 pounds
Colors: The color is a white ground with black and bright golden/orange markings carried to the skin. The markings are to be clear and distinct and in a very strict marking pattern. Colors range from “show marked” to “charlies” (mostly white) and “sports” (no white, brindled brown/orange). The “charlies” are usually inferior, being less robust, so are sometimes discarded from the breeding program. The “sports” tend to offer good size and body type and can be carefully used with animals needing more color.
Breed specialty club website
http://rhinelanderrabbits.com/main.htm
Josef continued the breeding process, producing the Rhinelander, which was an instant success among rabbit fanciers. Rhinelanders were fist imported to America in 1923 but disappeared from the U.S. by 1932, possibly due to the extreme popularity of the Checkered Giant.
In 1972, Robert Herschbach of California attended a rabbit show in West Germany in which he saw these beautiful Rhinelanders, purchased four and brought them back to the states, forming the Rhinelander Rabbit Club of America in 1974.
Rhinelanders are 6-9 pounds, overall white with colored ears, eye circles, cheek spots and of course the butterfly (spots on either side of the spine). The markings are usually black and orange, and they have short, dense fur. Their eyes are chestnut brown, and they have stand-up ears. In Germany and Sweden there are Rhinelanders with blue and fawn markings. Rhinelanders have a laid back and completely nonaggressive personality.
The Rhinelander rabbit breed has a graceful appearance and boasts calico-colored markings. Its fur is white with 6 to 8 black and orange round spots. It also has black and orange markings on its nose, ears, cheeks and eyes.
The Rhinelander is a meat rabbit with a dense, silky coat, white body with black and bright golden-orange spots and brown eyes.
Oryctologus cuniculus are rabbits with tri-color markings and soft silky coat.
They grow up to 8 pounds; they have an arched back, strong back legs and medium-sized front legs. They are popular pets.
For more info: See link: http://www.rhinelanderrabbits.com/RhinelanderbyJP.htm
Size: Large
Weight: 6-9 pounds
Colors: The color is a white ground with black and bright golden/orange markings carried to the skin. The markings are to be clear and distinct and in a very strict marking pattern. Colors range from “show marked” to “charlies” (mostly white) and “sports” (no white, brindled brown/orange). The “charlies” are usually inferior, being less robust, so are sometimes discarded from the breeding program. The “sports” tend to offer good size and body type and can be carefully used with animals needing more color.
Breed specialty club website
http://rhinelanderrabbits.com/main.htm
Satin
Also known as: the Rabbit of beauty and distinction
Breed description: Weighing 8–11 pounds, the Satin is recognized in 11 varieties by the ARBA. A genetic mutation found first in a litter of Havanas, the Satin fur is distinguished by a glass clear sheath to their guard hairs giving them a very high sheen. They are a commercial type rabbit, with one of the best meat to bone ratios. Excellent mothers, easy breeders and good growth rate makes them a very good choice for backyard meat production.
Weighing 8–11 pounds, the Satin is recognized in 11 varieties by the ARBA. A genetic mutation found first in a litter of Havanas, the Satin fur is distinguished by a glass clear sheath to their guard hairs giving them a very high sheen.
In 1930, Mr. alter Huey of Indiana, a noted Havana breeder, noticed some baby rabbits with exceptionally shiny coats in a nest box of young rabbits.
Huey was inbreeding his Havanas trying to increase the deep chocolate color. From 1930 until around 1936 Huey started saving and selecting the young animals with the shine coats for vigor and he sent some to Harvard University where geneticists determined the mutation was " a simple genetic recessive of the sheen and texture, not length".
In the early stages of the mutation it was shown along with the regular Havanas classes causing much discussion. Along around 1938 the Satin Havana was being shown as a separate variety of the Havana breed. They followed the general type and weight of the Havana breed.
By 1940 many breeders had started Satinizing other breeds and varieties using the original Havana Satin. In 1946 the American Satin Rabbit Breeders Association was formed; however, the only Satin breed recognized by the ARBA was the Havana Satin. Working standard for the White, Black, Orange, Lilac, and Black Silver Martin Satins were adopted.
In 1949 weights were proposed for the new Satin varieties. Ideal weighs for White bucks as nine pounds, White does ten ponds, colored bucks seven plus and colored does seven and one- half pounds plus.
The ARBA adopted a Satin Standard for eight varieties with description similar to today's standard description with one interesting difference and that was difference points for type and color between the Whites and Colored varieties.
In 1965 the Siamese variety was added and the difference in points between the whites and colored was eliminated. In 1985 a Broken variety was accepted and the weights were established uniformly for all varieties.
Size: Large
Weight: 8 to 11 pounds
Colors: See link for satin colors http://www.angelfire.com/tx5/doublehrabbits/satincolor.html
Breed specialty club website
http://asrba.org/
Weighing 8–11 pounds, the Satin is recognized in 11 varieties by the ARBA. A genetic mutation found first in a litter of Havanas, the Satin fur is distinguished by a glass clear sheath to their guard hairs giving them a very high sheen.
In 1930, Mr. alter Huey of Indiana, a noted Havana breeder, noticed some baby rabbits with exceptionally shiny coats in a nest box of young rabbits.
Huey was inbreeding his Havanas trying to increase the deep chocolate color. From 1930 until around 1936 Huey started saving and selecting the young animals with the shine coats for vigor and he sent some to Harvard University where geneticists determined the mutation was " a simple genetic recessive of the sheen and texture, not length".
In the early stages of the mutation it was shown along with the regular Havanas classes causing much discussion. Along around 1938 the Satin Havana was being shown as a separate variety of the Havana breed. They followed the general type and weight of the Havana breed.
By 1940 many breeders had started Satinizing other breeds and varieties using the original Havana Satin. In 1946 the American Satin Rabbit Breeders Association was formed; however, the only Satin breed recognized by the ARBA was the Havana Satin. Working standard for the White, Black, Orange, Lilac, and Black Silver Martin Satins were adopted.
In 1949 weights were proposed for the new Satin varieties. Ideal weighs for White bucks as nine pounds, White does ten ponds, colored bucks seven plus and colored does seven and one- half pounds plus.
The ARBA adopted a Satin Standard for eight varieties with description similar to today's standard description with one interesting difference and that was difference points for type and color between the Whites and Colored varieties.
In 1965 the Siamese variety was added and the difference in points between the whites and colored was eliminated. In 1985 a Broken variety was accepted and the weights were established uniformly for all varieties.
Size: Large
Weight: 8 to 11 pounds
Colors: See link for satin colors http://www.angelfire.com/tx5/doublehrabbits/satincolor.html
Breed specialty club website
http://asrba.org/
Silver
Also know as: The Sterling breed
Breed description: The Silver breed is among the oldest of domestic rabbits. This is a breed that if they were a piece of furniture or other relic they would be preserved in a history museum. As a breed the Silver dates back to the 1500's in England, arriving early on the North American shores. These were one of the first rabbits to be recognized officially in the US. Still maintained today in the US and UK, the Silver comes in black, fawn and brown. The name comes from the evenly distributed hairs scattered in the short coat.
This is a smaller rabbit of about 5 pounds with an active nature and athletic type. They are sometimes confused with the Silver Fox on names, but the Silver is a distinct breed in their own right with a muscular, athletic appearance. The silvering in the coat may vary in amount but should be even and clearly visible. The Silver is considered a "threatened" breed by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy, indicating fewer than 1,000 in the US and estimated fewer than 5,000 globally.
This certainly makes the Silver worthy of conservation efforts. For the youth that needs a smaller sized rabbit that is easier to handle to the pet person who would like to perhaps have a litter now and then and contribute to the conservation of a breed without having room to have larger livestock, the Silver offers enough for many situations. The "silvered" breeds all trace to this breed.
The Silver has a very short coat and to this coat and color is 65 points on the standard. It is this color and coat that makes the rabbit distinctive. However, the rabbit must also have type and balance. The fur should snapback, or return quickly into place when stroked the wrong way.
The black silver is the easiest to see the silver on but the brown and fawn silvers are beautiful too. The brown should be a rich color and a band of orange if you blow into the fur. The belly of the browns should be dark slate grey. Fawns carry an orange color with the silver blended in.
There are fewer Silvers around and sometimes finding competition at the shows can be difficult. It isn't a breed some judges see often. When a good Silver is on the show table though they can turn heads.
On many fronts, the Silver is a nice breed to maintain. Consider adding a trio to help the conservation effort of these old and treasured rabbits. They are a living history example in a modern world.
Size: Medium
Weight: 4 to 7 pounds
Colors: Black, brown and fawn
Breed specialty club website
http://www.silverrabbitclub.com/
This is a smaller rabbit of about 5 pounds with an active nature and athletic type. They are sometimes confused with the Silver Fox on names, but the Silver is a distinct breed in their own right with a muscular, athletic appearance. The silvering in the coat may vary in amount but should be even and clearly visible. The Silver is considered a "threatened" breed by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy, indicating fewer than 1,000 in the US and estimated fewer than 5,000 globally.
This certainly makes the Silver worthy of conservation efforts. For the youth that needs a smaller sized rabbit that is easier to handle to the pet person who would like to perhaps have a litter now and then and contribute to the conservation of a breed without having room to have larger livestock, the Silver offers enough for many situations. The "silvered" breeds all trace to this breed.
The Silver has a very short coat and to this coat and color is 65 points on the standard. It is this color and coat that makes the rabbit distinctive. However, the rabbit must also have type and balance. The fur should snapback, or return quickly into place when stroked the wrong way.
The black silver is the easiest to see the silver on but the brown and fawn silvers are beautiful too. The brown should be a rich color and a band of orange if you blow into the fur. The belly of the browns should be dark slate grey. Fawns carry an orange color with the silver blended in.
There are fewer Silvers around and sometimes finding competition at the shows can be difficult. It isn't a breed some judges see often. When a good Silver is on the show table though they can turn heads.
On many fronts, the Silver is a nice breed to maintain. Consider adding a trio to help the conservation effort of these old and treasured rabbits. They are a living history example in a modern world.
Size: Medium
Weight: 4 to 7 pounds
Colors: Black, brown and fawn
Breed specialty club website
http://www.silverrabbitclub.com/
Silver Fox
Also know as: One of a kind since 1929
Lilac Colored Silver Fox
Breed description: The Silver Fox is a rare breed of domestic rabbit native to the United States. It was developed by Walter B. Garland of North Canton, Ohio, and was bred for meat and fur. The breed is recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association, and was originally registered under the name American Heavyweight Silver in 1925. It is a large, docile breed weighing 11-12 pounds, and is named for its dense blue-gray or silver fur. Today the Silver Fox is one of the rarest rabbit breeds in America, and is considered critically endangered by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy. The Silver Fox is also a part of Slow Food USA's Ark of Taste, a catalog of U.S. foods in danger of extinction.
The Silver Fox is the second oldest American-developed rabbit, the oldest being the American Blue. The breed was originated and developed during the 1920's by W. B. Garland of North Canton, Ohio, and perfected over a 14-year period. It was the first rabbit of its day which would dress out at a pound over half of its live weight. It is bred in two varieties: Black and Blue. In 1925 the American Silver Fox was accepted into the Standard of A.R. & C.B.A. as the "American Silver Giant". In 1929 the name "Amercian Silver Fox" was given to the breed. In England there is also a "Silver Fox", but this is the English name for what we call the Silver Marten. The Silver Fox is a large rabbit with Senior does at 10-12 pounds and Senior bucks at 9-11 pounds. The body is medium in length with well filled shoulders and hindquarters. The two important features are its unusual long fur and evenly silvered coat. The coat is longer than normal commercial rabbit fur, with slightly coarse texture that should resemble the pelt of a fox. Silver tipped or white hairs will be present along the flanks and all over the body including head, feet and tail. The black color should run deep to the skin with a slate undercolor. The most unusual quality of the fur is that when it is slowly stroked backwards from the tail to the head, the fur "stands up," and it requires another stroke from the head to the tail to return it back in place. Silver Fox are a gentle breed. The does are easy breeders and excellent mothers. They seem to adapt to any climate and sudden changes in temperature does not appear to bother them. They are easy to handle and they like attention. A high dress out percentage with a predominantly small boned carcass makes them a very desirable meat breed. Silver Fox come in two varieties: black and blue. Black is the only variety recognized at the moment although the blues have two more presentations to be accepted in the ARBA again.
Size: Large
Weight: 9 to 12 pounds
Colors: Black with white ticking, similar to the arctic silver fox, blue, chocolate, and rarely lilac or white.
Breed specialty club website
http://www.albc-usa.org/cpl/silverfox.html
The Silver Fox is the second oldest American-developed rabbit, the oldest being the American Blue. The breed was originated and developed during the 1920's by W. B. Garland of North Canton, Ohio, and perfected over a 14-year period. It was the first rabbit of its day which would dress out at a pound over half of its live weight. It is bred in two varieties: Black and Blue. In 1925 the American Silver Fox was accepted into the Standard of A.R. & C.B.A. as the "American Silver Giant". In 1929 the name "Amercian Silver Fox" was given to the breed. In England there is also a "Silver Fox", but this is the English name for what we call the Silver Marten. The Silver Fox is a large rabbit with Senior does at 10-12 pounds and Senior bucks at 9-11 pounds. The body is medium in length with well filled shoulders and hindquarters. The two important features are its unusual long fur and evenly silvered coat. The coat is longer than normal commercial rabbit fur, with slightly coarse texture that should resemble the pelt of a fox. Silver tipped or white hairs will be present along the flanks and all over the body including head, feet and tail. The black color should run deep to the skin with a slate undercolor. The most unusual quality of the fur is that when it is slowly stroked backwards from the tail to the head, the fur "stands up," and it requires another stroke from the head to the tail to return it back in place. Silver Fox are a gentle breed. The does are easy breeders and excellent mothers. They seem to adapt to any climate and sudden changes in temperature does not appear to bother them. They are easy to handle and they like attention. A high dress out percentage with a predominantly small boned carcass makes them a very desirable meat breed. Silver Fox come in two varieties: black and blue. Black is the only variety recognized at the moment although the blues have two more presentations to be accepted in the ARBA again.
Size: Large
Weight: 9 to 12 pounds
Colors: Black with white ticking, similar to the arctic silver fox, blue, chocolate, and rarely lilac or white.
Breed specialty club website
http://www.albc-usa.org/cpl/silverfox.html
Silver Marten
Breed description: The Silver Marten is a medium-sized rabbit that weighs between 6.5 and 8.5 lbs. when fully grown. They are hardy and have fur that is described as soft "with a beautiful polished look to it".While more timid than some larger breeds of rabbit, they are still considered an excellent pet. The Silver Marten is playful, enjoys romping around, and likes playthings it can toss around its cage.
Early breeders of Chinchilla rabbits, a breed listed as critical on the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy Conservation Priority List, attempted to improve Chinchilla rabbits' color and pattern by introducing black and tan bloodlines. These genes later manifested as black "sports" described as "strange little black rabbits" as well as similar silver rabbits among standard Chinchilla rabbit litters. These oddities bred true and were named as a separate breed, the "Silver Marten", in 1924.
In 1927, a working standard for black and chocolate varieties was established by the American Rabbit Breeders' Association and the first Silver Marten Club was chartered. A blue variety of this breed was accepted in 1933. The sable variety, the last to be approved, was accepted in 1993.
Size: Medium
Weight: 6 to 9 1/2 pounds
Colors: Black Silver Marten is the most popular variety of the breed. Specimens should be jet black color, its fur being black as far down the hair as possible, with contrasting silver markings that are shape and defined. A Black Silver Marten should have dark brown eyes and an underside of dark slate blue.
Blue Silver Marten is the second most popular breed. Their color should be an even dark "blue" everywhere. Their eyes should be bluish gray. Sharp markings in the blue variety are often slower to fully develop than in the Blue Silver Marten. Chocolate Silver Martens should be a rich, dark brown color "like semi-sweet rather than milk chocolate candy" and brown eyes. Their bellies are the same color but lighter, with pigment only at the tips of the fur. Breeders say that their fur has a tendency to fade over time, especially if given much sunlight.
Sable Silver Martens, the last variety of the breed to be approved, are the least common. They should be medium sepia brown "on the saddle, shading evenly down the sides to a lighter color". The rabbit's ears, face, tail, outside of the feet, and lower legs should be very dark sepia brown, nearly black, that provides a distinct contrast to the color of the body. Correctly colored sables must be a silvery color at birth, but as they age they take on a blotchy appearance. The coat typically darkens throughout the rabbit's lifetime, each successive molt reducing the contrast with the points.
Silver Marten are a compatible breed for introducing color into Dwarf Rabbit bloodlines
Breed specialty club website
http://www.silvermarten.com/
Early breeders of Chinchilla rabbits, a breed listed as critical on the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy Conservation Priority List, attempted to improve Chinchilla rabbits' color and pattern by introducing black and tan bloodlines. These genes later manifested as black "sports" described as "strange little black rabbits" as well as similar silver rabbits among standard Chinchilla rabbit litters. These oddities bred true and were named as a separate breed, the "Silver Marten", in 1924.
In 1927, a working standard for black and chocolate varieties was established by the American Rabbit Breeders' Association and the first Silver Marten Club was chartered. A blue variety of this breed was accepted in 1933. The sable variety, the last to be approved, was accepted in 1993.
Size: Medium
Weight: 6 to 9 1/2 pounds
Colors: Black Silver Marten is the most popular variety of the breed. Specimens should be jet black color, its fur being black as far down the hair as possible, with contrasting silver markings that are shape and defined. A Black Silver Marten should have dark brown eyes and an underside of dark slate blue.
Blue Silver Marten is the second most popular breed. Their color should be an even dark "blue" everywhere. Their eyes should be bluish gray. Sharp markings in the blue variety are often slower to fully develop than in the Blue Silver Marten. Chocolate Silver Martens should be a rich, dark brown color "like semi-sweet rather than milk chocolate candy" and brown eyes. Their bellies are the same color but lighter, with pigment only at the tips of the fur. Breeders say that their fur has a tendency to fade over time, especially if given much sunlight.
Sable Silver Martens, the last variety of the breed to be approved, are the least common. They should be medium sepia brown "on the saddle, shading evenly down the sides to a lighter color". The rabbit's ears, face, tail, outside of the feet, and lower legs should be very dark sepia brown, nearly black, that provides a distinct contrast to the color of the body. Correctly colored sables must be a silvery color at birth, but as they age they take on a blotchy appearance. The coat typically darkens throughout the rabbit's lifetime, each successive molt reducing the contrast with the points.
Silver Marten are a compatible breed for introducing color into Dwarf Rabbit bloodlines
Breed specialty club website
http://www.silvermarten.com/
Tan
Also known as: Aristocrat of the fancy
Breed description: The Tan rabbit is a small fancy breed of rabbit shown throughout the world. While originally from England, in recent years they have gained popularity in the United States. Tans come in four varieties : black, blue, chocolate and lilac. Full grown Tans weigh 4-6 lbs
Tans are an old breed that has unique markings and striking coloring. They originally come from England where they have been shown since the late 1800's.
The Tan rabbit, also known as the Black ‘n’ tan, is a popular breed and has been in existence for over 100 years. The back and sides are an incredibly sleek black, much darker than in other breeds. The underbelly, chest, chin, tail, inner ears, inner nostrils, eye circles are a rich rufus red colour. The sides have a tan ticking over the black, which produces a striking pattern. The overall pattern is caused by the tan gene, which removes the yellow band form the agouti, and the darker colour is caused by multiple “rufus modifying” genes.
For more info on the tan rabbit: See link http://www.urbanrabbits.net/description.html
Size: Small
Weight: 4 to 6 pounds
Colors: Black, Chocolate, Blue and Lilac
Breed specialty club website
http://www.atrsc.org/
Tans are an old breed that has unique markings and striking coloring. They originally come from England where they have been shown since the late 1800's.
The Tan rabbit, also known as the Black ‘n’ tan, is a popular breed and has been in existence for over 100 years. The back and sides are an incredibly sleek black, much darker than in other breeds. The underbelly, chest, chin, tail, inner ears, inner nostrils, eye circles are a rich rufus red colour. The sides have a tan ticking over the black, which produces a striking pattern. The overall pattern is caused by the tan gene, which removes the yellow band form the agouti, and the darker colour is caused by multiple “rufus modifying” genes.
For more info on the tan rabbit: See link http://www.urbanrabbits.net/description.html
Size: Small
Weight: 4 to 6 pounds
Colors: Black, Chocolate, Blue and Lilac
Breed specialty club website
http://www.atrsc.org/
Thrianta
Breed description: The Thrianta rabbit is one of the newest breeds to be officially recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), added along with the Mini Satin on 1 February 2006. Known as the "Fire of the Fancy," it has a brilliant red-orange coat and brown eyes. The Thrianta is a medium-sized rabbit, ranging from four to six pounds (1.8 to 2.7 kg) and ideally under five pounds (2.3 kg).
The Thrianta traces its history back to the Netherlands in 1938, when Mr. H. Andreae, a school teacher, began developing the breed as a tribute to Holland's royal house, the House of Orange. Bred from Black Tan, English Spot, and Havana rabbits, the Thrianta was accepted in the Netherlands in 1940, but the original standards, stipulating a hint of tan coloring under the orange top coat, made the breed difficult to maintain. World War II also took a toll on the Thrianta population, as the Netherlands were invaded by German forces just days after the breed's first official recognition. By 1966, Thriantas were no longer listed in the Dutch standards.
The Thrianta began to see a resurgence in popularity in the 1970s, when it became accepted into the British Rabbit Council standards and a special club dedicated to the breed was formed in Holland. American rabbit breeders began bringing Thriantas into the United States in 1996. In 2006, it became the 46th rabbit breed to be accepted by ARBA, and the first since 1988. Judith Oldenburg-Graf of Iowa, the first to import the breed into the United States, also became the first to hold an ARBA Certificate of Development for the breed.
The Thrianta has become a popular show rabbit in recent years, in part due to the unique color of its coat, which makes it stand out from all other rabbits. Thriantas make good pets as well as show animals. They are not only attractive, but also gentle, friendly, and inquisitive.
For more info: See link http://voices.yahoo.com/rabbit-breed-profiles-thrianta-6868568.html?cat=53
Size: Small
Weight: 4 to 6 pounds
Colors: Eye-catching, brilliant, red rabbit with fawn coloring under
Breed specialty club website
http://www.atrba.net/
The Thrianta traces its history back to the Netherlands in 1938, when Mr. H. Andreae, a school teacher, began developing the breed as a tribute to Holland's royal house, the House of Orange. Bred from Black Tan, English Spot, and Havana rabbits, the Thrianta was accepted in the Netherlands in 1940, but the original standards, stipulating a hint of tan coloring under the orange top coat, made the breed difficult to maintain. World War II also took a toll on the Thrianta population, as the Netherlands were invaded by German forces just days after the breed's first official recognition. By 1966, Thriantas were no longer listed in the Dutch standards.
The Thrianta began to see a resurgence in popularity in the 1970s, when it became accepted into the British Rabbit Council standards and a special club dedicated to the breed was formed in Holland. American rabbit breeders began bringing Thriantas into the United States in 1996. In 2006, it became the 46th rabbit breed to be accepted by ARBA, and the first since 1988. Judith Oldenburg-Graf of Iowa, the first to import the breed into the United States, also became the first to hold an ARBA Certificate of Development for the breed.
The Thrianta has become a popular show rabbit in recent years, in part due to the unique color of its coat, which makes it stand out from all other rabbits. Thriantas make good pets as well as show animals. They are not only attractive, but also gentle, friendly, and inquisitive.
For more info: See link http://voices.yahoo.com/rabbit-breed-profiles-thrianta-6868568.html?cat=53
Size: Small
Weight: 4 to 6 pounds
Colors: Eye-catching, brilliant, red rabbit with fawn coloring under
Breed specialty club website
http://www.atrba.net/
Velveteen Lop
Breed description: The history of the Velveteen Lop begins like any other new breed.
Before it can be accepted into the American Rabbit Breeders Association as a recognized breed for show,
it must begin the process with an animal of unique qualities that can identify itself distinctly from any other.
Once a breeder has produced a new and distinct animal, the breeder/sponsor must apply for a Certificate of Development, or COD, and will be the sole person responsible for maintaining the working standard for the breed, breeding and presenting the animals to the Standards Committee at the annual ARBA Convention and Show each year, until three years worth of passing votes are accepted.
For the Velveteen Lop, this process began around 1994, when the first COD was issued to Virginia Menden of California. At that time, Ms Menden forfeited on her rights to make presentation, and the next in line with a COD for the breed was Paul Lewis of New Mexico. In 1998, Mr. Lewis was to make his first attempt for presentation at the Portland, Oregon ARBA Convention when due to the weather catastrophe of El Nino, that year, Paul was not able to produce animals for presentation, giving then a failed presentation. When the Louisville, Kentucky ARBA Convention and Show came about in 1999, Paul was not yet prepared again to present animals and decided that he would withdraw from his rights to the COD.
This passed the presentation rights onto the next holder, Mary Crawford of Texas. And this is where the true story of trial and tribulation begins for the Velveteen Lop.
For more info: See link http://velveteenlopbreeders.web.officelive.com/default.aspx
Size: Medium
Weight: 4 to 6 1/2 pounds
Colors: See link http://velveteenlopbreeders.web.officelive.com/ColorGuide.aspx
Breed specialty club website
http://velveteenlopbreeders.web.officelive.com/default.aspx
Before it can be accepted into the American Rabbit Breeders Association as a recognized breed for show,
it must begin the process with an animal of unique qualities that can identify itself distinctly from any other.
Once a breeder has produced a new and distinct animal, the breeder/sponsor must apply for a Certificate of Development, or COD, and will be the sole person responsible for maintaining the working standard for the breed, breeding and presenting the animals to the Standards Committee at the annual ARBA Convention and Show each year, until three years worth of passing votes are accepted.
For the Velveteen Lop, this process began around 1994, when the first COD was issued to Virginia Menden of California. At that time, Ms Menden forfeited on her rights to make presentation, and the next in line with a COD for the breed was Paul Lewis of New Mexico. In 1998, Mr. Lewis was to make his first attempt for presentation at the Portland, Oregon ARBA Convention when due to the weather catastrophe of El Nino, that year, Paul was not able to produce animals for presentation, giving then a failed presentation. When the Louisville, Kentucky ARBA Convention and Show came about in 1999, Paul was not yet prepared again to present animals and decided that he would withdraw from his rights to the COD.
This passed the presentation rights onto the next holder, Mary Crawford of Texas. And this is where the true story of trial and tribulation begins for the Velveteen Lop.
For more info: See link http://velveteenlopbreeders.web.officelive.com/default.aspx
Size: Medium
Weight: 4 to 6 1/2 pounds
Colors: See link http://velveteenlopbreeders.web.officelive.com/ColorGuide.aspx
Breed specialty club website
http://velveteenlopbreeders.web.officelive.com/default.aspx
Rabbit Colors
Agouti: bands of color occur on each hair - the colors of these bands vary depending on the type of agouti coloration.
Black: dark black.
Black otter: black body with lighter underside, hair may be orange tinted at the border of the black and lighter color.
Blue: medium or slate blue.
Blue otter: blue coat with fawn tipped guard hairs, fawn areas.
Blue steel: blue with silver or tan "ticking
Blue tortoiseshell: blue and beige.
Broken: white with any color patches or spots, with nose markings, colored ears, and eye circles.
Brown-gray agouti: blue at base, then medium tan, charcoal, and tan at tip.
Californian: white body with black on nose, ears, tail, feet.
Castor: brown over top, slate blue undercoat, with orange or red in between.
Chinchilla: slate or black blended with pearl, black tipped guard hairs.
Cinnamon: rust or reddish-brown color.
Chocolate: deep dark brown.
Chocolate agouti: bands of tan and chocolate with a chestnut tip.
Chocolate chinchilla: chocolate and pearl with chocolate tipped guard hairs.
Chocolate steel: chocolate with tan or silver ticking.
Chocolate tortoiseshell: creamy chocolate with fawn.
Copper agouti: bands of red/orange and dark slate with red at tip, ticked with black tipped guard hairs.
Cream: pinkish beige to almond.
Fawn: straw color.
Frosted pearl: pearl with black, blue, chocolate or lilac shading.
Gray: three different colors of hair: black, black with tan tip, and black with tan band, and slate undercolor.
Light gray: agouti with slate blue at base, off white in middle, and light gray at tip, with black tipped guard hairs.
Lilac: pinkish pale gray
Lilac chinchilla: lilac and pearl ticked with lilac tipped guard hairs.
Lilac steel: lilac with tan or silver ticking.
Lilac tortoiseshell: lilac and beige.
Opal agouti: slate blue at base of hair, then gold, then blue tip.
Orange: light to bright orange.
Pearl: light creamy gray.
Pointed white: white with black, blue, chocolate or lilac colored nose, ears, feet, tail (like a Himalayan coloring).
Red: rich brown red color.
Sable: dark grayish brown.
Sable marten: siamese sable coloring with silver tipped guard hairs.
Sable point: cream body and sable on nose, ears, feet and tail.
Sandy: reddish tan.
Seal: dark (almost black) sable.
Self group: solid color in black, blue, lilac, blue eyed white, and ruby eyed white.
Shaded group: color transitions from dark to light (e.g. frosted pearl, sable, sable point, siamese sable, seal, tortoise).
Silver or silver fox: silver with white or white tipped hairs.
Silver Marten: black, blue, chocolate or lilac with silver white markings and silver tipped guard hairs.
Tan Pattern: marks (not necessarily tan) on nostril, eye circles, jowls, inside ears, belly, inside led, underside of tail. Groups included marten and otter colorations.
Ticking: solid or tipped guard hairs different than the main coat color interspersed throughout the coat.
Tortoise: orange with black, blue, chocolate or lilac.
Tortoiseshell: orange or dark fawn and black.
Tri-colored: white with any of black and orange, lavender blue and fawn, chocolate and orange, gray and fawn.
Black: dark black.
Black otter: black body with lighter underside, hair may be orange tinted at the border of the black and lighter color.
Blue: medium or slate blue.
Blue otter: blue coat with fawn tipped guard hairs, fawn areas.
Blue steel: blue with silver or tan "ticking
Blue tortoiseshell: blue and beige.
Broken: white with any color patches or spots, with nose markings, colored ears, and eye circles.
Brown-gray agouti: blue at base, then medium tan, charcoal, and tan at tip.
Californian: white body with black on nose, ears, tail, feet.
Castor: brown over top, slate blue undercoat, with orange or red in between.
Chinchilla: slate or black blended with pearl, black tipped guard hairs.
Cinnamon: rust or reddish-brown color.
Chocolate: deep dark brown.
Chocolate agouti: bands of tan and chocolate with a chestnut tip.
Chocolate chinchilla: chocolate and pearl with chocolate tipped guard hairs.
Chocolate steel: chocolate with tan or silver ticking.
Chocolate tortoiseshell: creamy chocolate with fawn.
Copper agouti: bands of red/orange and dark slate with red at tip, ticked with black tipped guard hairs.
Cream: pinkish beige to almond.
Fawn: straw color.
Frosted pearl: pearl with black, blue, chocolate or lilac shading.
Gray: three different colors of hair: black, black with tan tip, and black with tan band, and slate undercolor.
Light gray: agouti with slate blue at base, off white in middle, and light gray at tip, with black tipped guard hairs.
Lilac: pinkish pale gray
Lilac chinchilla: lilac and pearl ticked with lilac tipped guard hairs.
Lilac steel: lilac with tan or silver ticking.
Lilac tortoiseshell: lilac and beige.
Opal agouti: slate blue at base of hair, then gold, then blue tip.
Orange: light to bright orange.
Pearl: light creamy gray.
Pointed white: white with black, blue, chocolate or lilac colored nose, ears, feet, tail (like a Himalayan coloring).
Red: rich brown red color.
Sable: dark grayish brown.
Sable marten: siamese sable coloring with silver tipped guard hairs.
Sable point: cream body and sable on nose, ears, feet and tail.
Sandy: reddish tan.
Seal: dark (almost black) sable.
Self group: solid color in black, blue, lilac, blue eyed white, and ruby eyed white.
Shaded group: color transitions from dark to light (e.g. frosted pearl, sable, sable point, siamese sable, seal, tortoise).
Silver or silver fox: silver with white or white tipped hairs.
Silver Marten: black, blue, chocolate or lilac with silver white markings and silver tipped guard hairs.
Tan Pattern: marks (not necessarily tan) on nostril, eye circles, jowls, inside ears, belly, inside led, underside of tail. Groups included marten and otter colorations.
Ticking: solid or tipped guard hairs different than the main coat color interspersed throughout the coat.
Tortoise: orange with black, blue, chocolate or lilac.
Tortoiseshell: orange or dark fawn and black.
Tri-colored: white with any of black and orange, lavender blue and fawn, chocolate and orange, gray and fawn.