Are There Rabbits That Stay Small? (15 Dwarf Breeds)

For rabbit lovers seeking a petite pet, there are dozens of pint-sized rabbit breeds that stay small and tiny their whole lives. From the Netherland Dwarf that fits in your palm to the cuddly Holland Lop with droopy ears, these mini and dwarf rabbits weigh just 1-4 pounds fully grown. Their compact size makes them easier to handle and care for than a 10-pound Flemish Giant! But don’t let their small stature fool you – these energetic little fluffballs have huge personalities. Learn all about the 15 most popular tiny rabbit breeds and their proper care so you can welcome one of these mini sweeties into your home!

What Is The Average Size And Weight of a Rabbit?

The average size and weight of a rabbit depends on the breed. Rabbits come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from dwarf breeds that weigh just 1-3 lbs as adults, to giant breeds that can weigh over 20 lbs.

Most rabbits are medium-sized, weighing between 4-12 lbs as adults. The most popular pet rabbit breeds like the Netherland Dwarf, Mini Rex, and Holland Lop fall into this medium range. An average adult medium-sized rabbit is around 5-10 lbs.

Some key facts about average rabbit sizes:

– Dwarf rabbits: 1-3.5 lbs when fully grown
– Small rabbits: 3-5 lbs as adults
– Medium rabbits: 5-10 lbs when mature
– Large rabbits: 10-20 lbs full grown
– Giant rabbits: over 20 lbs when fully mature

The largest rabbit breed is the Flemish Giant, which can weigh up to 25 lbs. On the other end of the spectrum, the Netherland Dwarf is the smallest breed, weighing just 1.5-2.5 lbs when fully grown.

Both genetics and diet play roles in determining a rabbit’s full adult size and weight. Even within the same breed, some variation is normal. Proper nutrition is important to ensure a rabbit reaches an appropriate healthy weight.

How Quickly Do Rabbits Grow to Full Size?

On average, it takes about 9-12 months for a rabbit to reach its full adult size. However, growth rates can vary significantly depending on the breed.

– Small breeds like dwarf rabbits reach adult size more quickly, at about 6-9 months old.
– Medium and large breeds take about 9-12 months to reach their mature size.
– Giant breeds can take over a year to reach their full size, not maturing until 12-18 months old.

In the first few weeks of life, rabbits grow very rapidly. Baby rabbits typically double their birth weight by 10 days old. Between 8-12 weeks old, they will reach about 80% of their adult weight.

From 3 to 6 months old, rabbits experience their most rapid growth phase. This is when they truly start to look like miniature versions of their adult selves. Their legs elongate and body lengthens during this adolescent period.

After 6 months, rabbits continue putting on weight and filling out until they reach full maturity around 9-12 months old. Their growth plates close between 10-14 months old. After this point, further growth in either height or length stops.

While genetics largely determines a rabbit’s adult size, nutrition also plays an important role. Ensuring a rabbit receives proper diet and nutrition during its first year of life allows it to fully achieve its growth potential.

Difference Between a Small Rabbit and a Dwarf Rabbit

Many people use the terms “small rabbit” and “dwarf rabbit” interchangeably, but there are some distinct differences between the two:

– Small rabbits are naturally small breeds, usually weighing 3-5 lbs as adults. Examples include the Netherland Dwarf, Britannia Petite, and Polish.

– Dwarf rabbits are specifically bred to carry a genetic dwarfing gene that results in a smaller size, typically 1-3.5 lbs. True dwarf rabbit breeds include the Netherland Dwarf, Dwarf Hotot, and Holland Lop.

– Not all small rabbits are dwarfs. Small rabbit breeds don’t necessarily carry dwarf genetics. A Polish rabbit, for example, is just naturally small without dwarfism.

– All dwarf rabbit breeds are small, but not all small rabbits are dwarfs. Dwarfism produces an exceptionally tiny rabbit.

– Dwarfism affects body structure, producing a rounded, compact body shape. Small rabbit breeds don’t necessarily share this characteristic stocky build.

– Breed standards dictate ideal weight ranges for dwarf vs. small rabbit breeds. Netherland Dwarfs, for instance, should not exceed 2.5 lbs. Small rabbit breeds have higher acceptable size ranges.

– Temperament may also differ slightly between dwarfs and non-dwarf small breeds. Dwarfs tend to be laidback, while some small breeds are more energetic.

So in summary, all dwarf rabbits are small due to their genetic propensity for dwarfism. But small rabbits are not necessarily true dwarfs in terms of genetics and conformation.

Which Rabbit Breeds Carry the Dwarf Gene?

There are several popular rabbit breeds that carry the genetic mutation that causes dwarfism, resulting in an exceptionally small mature size between 1-3.5 lbs:

Netherland Dwarf – The most popular domestic rabbit breed. Adults weigh just 1.5-2.5 lbs. Comes in a wide variety of coat colors and patterns. Round, compact body.

Dwarf Hotot – Distinctive for their white coats with black eye bands. Weigh 2-3 lbs as adults. Well-proportioned compact body shape.

Britannia Petite – British breed with compact, cobby body weighing 2-2.5 lbs. Short legs and ears. Variety of coat colors.

Holland Lop – Breed features the signature lop ears. Mature does weigh 2-4 lbs. Known for calm, friendly personalities.

Jersey Wooly – Extremely small breed with long wool coat. Adults just weigh 1.5-3.5 lbs. Highly active for small rabbits.

Himalayan – Ancient breed originating in Asia. Adults 2-4.5 lbs. Long, silky white coat.

Mini Satin – Miniature version of the Satin breed. Weighs 2.5-3.5 lbs with luxurious, glossy fur.

Polish – Lively, dainty breed reaching 2.5-3.5 lbs. Distinguished by a narrow, elegant head.

Lionhead – renowned for its mane of long wool around the head. Adults 2.5-3.5 lbs.

American Fuzzy Lop – Lop-eared breed with long coat. Adults weigh 2-4 lbs.

These breeds all share the genetic propensity for dwarfism. When two carrier rabbits are bred, their offspring have a 25% chance of being a “peanut,” an extreme dwarf weighing just under 1 lb. Responsible rabbit breeders avoid these high-risk pairings.

Can Two Dwarf Rabbits Breed?

Yes, two dwarf rabbits are able to successfully breed and produce offspring together. The litter size may be slightly smaller than average, with 1-6 babies being common.

It’s important to carefully select a suitable pair of dwarf rabbits for breeding. Both rabbits should be at least 6 months old and sexually mature prior to breeding.

Additionally, responsible breeders avoid breeding two peanut dwarfs together. A peanut dwarf is an extreme version of dwarfism producing exceptionally tiny kits under 1 lb. Breeding two peanuts results in high rates of infant mortality.

Breeding two standard dwarf rabbits, on the other hand, can produce perfectly healthy litters. The dwarfed gene will pass down, resulting in dwarfed offspring.

There’s about a 25% chance of producing “peanuts” if both dwarf parents carry two copies of the recessive dwarfing gene. Experienced breeders breed dwarfs selectively to avoid peanuts in the litter.

Potential complications to be aware of when breeding dwarf rabbits include:

– Difficulty kindling (giving birth) due to small pelvic size

– Small litter size compared to medium/large rabbits

– Higher infant mortality rates

– Need to monitor mom’s ability to nurse a litter

With proper care and preparation, breeding dwarf rabbits can result in a healthy dwarf litter. Work with an experienced rabbit breeder or veterinarian to ensure the best outcome.

Breeds of Rabbit That Stay Small

Here is an overview of 15 of the smallest domestic rabbit breeds, all staying under 4 lbs when fully grown:

Netherland Dwarf – The quintessential dwarf rabbit breed. Adults just 1.5-2.5 lbs. Round compact body. Sweet, gentle personality.

Jersey Wooly – Extremely small breed with long wool coat. Weigh just 1.5-3 lbs fully grown.

Britannia Petite – British breed weighing 2-2.5 lbs. Cobby body on short legs. Docile temperament.

Holland Lop – Droopy lop-eared breed. Mature does 2-4 lbs. Calm and easy to handle.

Himalayan – Ancient Asian breed with long white coat. Adults 2-4.5 lbs. Gentle personality.

Mini Satin – Miniature version of Satin breed with shiny fur. Just 2.5-3.5 lbs fully grown.

Dwarf Hotot – Black eye bands and white coat. Adults around 2-3 lbs. Mild mannered.

Lionhead – Distinctive mane of fur around head. Adults 2.5-3.5 lbs. Outgoing and energetic.

American Fuzzy Lop – Lop ears and long fuzz. Mature does 2-4 lbs. Affectionate companions.

English Spot – Cute spotted markings. Petite adults around 3-4 lbs. Friendly and gentle.

Mini Rex – “Velveteen” plush coat texture. Adults 3-4.5 lbs. Intelligent and playful.

Polish – Narrow, elegant head. Adults 2.5-3.5 lbs. Active and entertaining.

Florida White – All-white short fur. Adults 3-4 lbs. Gentle, calm personality.

Silver Martin – Gleaming silver-white coat. Mature does 3-4 lbs. Docile and sweet-natured.

Tan – Distinctive tan and black pattern. Adults around 3-4 lbs. Lively and energetic.

These miniaturized rabbit breeds all make wonderful petite companion pets! Their small size makes them easy to handle and care for.

Do Small Rabbits Need a Hutch?

Yes, even small rabbit breeds need an appropriately sized rabbit hutch or enclosure. While their tiny size may seem to allow for smaller housing, small rabbits are active creatures that require adequate space.

Here are some guidelines for choosing hutches and housing for small rabbits:

– Minimum dimensions of 30″ x 36″ floor space, 18″ high. Larger always better.

– Dwarf rabbits need minimum 2 square feet floor space. Add 1 square foot per additional rabbit.

– Multiple level cage allows more playroom. Ramps should be enclosed with rails.

– Include cozy, enclosed sleeping area with straw or hay bedding.

– Wire flooring can cause foot sores. Use solid flooring lined with bedding.

– Outdoor hutches need weather protection including shade, rain cover, and frost-free water.

– Indoor cages should be metal or plastic for easy cleaning. Include hideaway and toys.

– Litter boxes with hay racks in corner of hutch help maintain tidy habitat.

– Fencing a rabbit exercise pen allows playtime outside the hutch.

While small in stature, pet rabbits are active creatures that need room to hop and play daily. Ensuring proper housing allows tiny breeds to thrive as pets.

Do Small Rabbits Eat Less Food?

Small rabbit breeds do require slightly less food compared to their larger cousins, but they have hearty appetites for their size. Feeding dwarf and mini rabbits the proper diet in appropriate portions is important for their health.

Here are some feeding guidelines for small rabbit breeds:

– Provide continuous access to hay. Hay should make up majority of diet. Timothy or orchard grass best.

– Feed about 1/8 cup high quality pellets per day. Choose formulated for dwarf rabbits.

– 1 cup fresh vegetables per 4 lbs body weight recommended daily. Leafy greens, root veggies and herbs.

– Limit fruits like carrots or apples to 1 tablespoon daily. High sugar content.

– Introduce veggies slowly. Mix new items with current foods.

– Always have clean water available in a dispenser or heavy bowl. Change daily.

– Do not overfeed treats or extras. Obesity common but dangerous for rabbits.

Monitor small rabbits’ weight routinely to adjust feeding amounts as needed. Keep an eye out for potential dental issues and be prepared to have teeth trimmed as required. Providing proper nutrition in appropriate amounts is essential.

Can Small and Large Rabbits Live Together?

It is possible for small and large rabbit breeds to coexist in the same household, but certain precautions should be taken. Size disparity can lead to potential issues.

Here are some tips for housing small and large rabbits together:

– Only house similarly sized rabbits together to prevent injuries. Never mix tiny dwarfs with giant breeds.

– Spay/neuter all rabbits first. Unaltered rabbits are more prone to fighting and territorial issues.

– Introduce any new rabbits slowly and supervise initial interactions. Look for signs of aggression.

– Provide plenty of space and duplicate supplies to minimize competition for resources.

– Feed on separate schedules and monitor to ensure each rabbit is eating well.

– Set up litter boxes, hideaways, toys and bowls in multiple spots to accommodate different needs.

– Check for any bullying or nipping. Separate immediately if any rabbit seems stressed or injured.

– Schedule individual playtime for safety and enough individual attention.

With careful introduction and supervision, differently sized rabbits can potentially live harmoniously in the same home. However, housing similarly sized rabbits together is safest.

Are Small Rabbits Better Pets Than Large Rabbits?

Prospective rabbit owners trying to decide between small vs. large breeds will find pros and cons to both sizes. The right choice depends on your specific needs and situation.

Some advantages of small rabbit breeds as pets include:

– Take up less space than large breeds – can be housed in compact hutches and enclosures

– Easier to handle, hold and lift than heavier large rabbits

– Can be good options for apartments or small children due to petite sizes

– Lower food consumption so can be slightly less expensive to feed

– Compact poops so generally less mess to clean up

However, larger rabbits offer some benefits too:

– Calm, laidback temperaments – are less easily startled or anxious

– Enjoy being cuddled and held close due to their size

– Soft, fluffy coats designed to be petted make them very huggable

– May be better suited for homes with larger dogs or rowdy kids

Ultimately there’s no definitive answer for whether small or large rabbits make better pets. Meet some breeds of each size in person when possible. Either can make fantastic companions when cared for properly! Consider your lifestyle, space limitations and preferences to choose the right fit.

In Summary

Rabbits come in a huge range of sizes depending on their breed. Dwarf rabbit breeds reach just 1-3.5 lbs when fully grown due to a genetic propensity for dwarfism. Other small breeds naturally have petite frames reaching 3-4 lbs mature.

While tiny, these small rabbits need proper housing, exercise, nutrition and care just like their larger cousins. Their compact size does make them easier to handle and less expensive to feed. Small rabbits can thrive with attentive owners who can meet their needs for space and enrichment.

There are over 15 popular diminutive rabbit breeds to choose from that stay under 4 lbs. Whether your preference leans towards the tiniest dwarf rabbits or those slightly larger “small” breeds, there’s a miniature rabbit suited for any prospective owner. Just be prepared for big personalities and energy in small packages when sharing your home with these petite yet lively bunnies!

Rabbit Breeders

Rabbit Breeders is the leading website for rabbit information & research. For over 10 years rabbitbreeders.us has been serving the rabbit community. We provide the world's largest rabbit breeders directory.

Recent Posts