Top 50 Breeds of Rabbits (With Photos) for Pets & Show

Rabbits can make wonderful pets or show animals. From small to large, there are a wide variety of breeds to choose from. Some breeds are known for their docile nature, and others for their vibrant colors. No matter what you’re looking for in a pet or show rabbit, there is a breed that is perfect for you.

1. Mini Lop

Mini Lop Rabbit

The Mini Lop rabbit breed is distinguished by its small size and signature lop ears that hang down on either side of the head. Weighing 4-6 pounds as adults, Mini Lops are one of the smaller rabbit breeds kept as pets today. Originating in Germany, Mini Lops draw the admiration of rabbit lovers around the world for their cute appearance and playful personalities. Despite their diminutive size, they have all the traits of larger rabbits in terms of feeding, housing, and health needs. Mini Lops come in a wide range of coat colors and patterns. Their soft, velvety fur requires minimal grooming. While active and social, Mini Lops also enjoy lounging and cuddling. All these attributes make them ideal house pets for both children and adults, contributing to why they consistently rank among the most popular rabbit breeds.

2. Holland Lop

Holland Lop Rabbit

The Holland Lop is one of the most popular rabbit breeds kept as pets. Weighing between 2-4 pounds, these cute rabbits have a compact body type and short droopy ears that give them a unique appearance. Holland Lops were originally developed in the Netherlands but became widely popular across North America and Europe. They come in a variety of colors and patterns and have a friendly, docile temperament that makes them a great house rabbit. Hollands are slower-moving than some breeds and enjoy lounging more than strenuous activity. They make excellent companions for adults and older children when handled gently. Their small size also makes them a good fit for apartment living. Overall, the sweet personality and distinctive look of Holland Lops help explain why they rank among the most preferred rabbit breeds today.

3. Mini Rex

Mini Rex Rabbit

A smaller version of the popular Rex rabbit, the Mini Rex weighs 3-4.5 pounds as an adult. Originating in the 1980s in the United States, these petite rabbits inherited the lush, velvety Rex coat that makes the fur feel plush and soft. Mini Rex rabbits come in a wide variety of colors including black, white, brown, and mixed shades. Their smaller stature gives them an adorably cute appearance. But beneath that cuddly exterior, Mini Rex tend to be active, energetic, and playful. They often stay kitten-like even into adulthood. Intelligent and inquisitive, Mini Rex appreciate toys and activities to engage their agile minds. While their smaller size makes them delicate for very young children, Mini Rex make ideal companions for older kids and adults seeking an entertaining rabbit pet.

4. Netherland Dwarf

Netherland Dwarf Rabbit

The Netherland Dwarf is the smallest breed of domestic rabbit, weighing just 2-3 pounds as adults. Originating in the Netherlands, these petite rabbits caught the attention of breeders and rabbit enthusiasts decades ago. Today they are one of the most popular breeds kept as pets across Europe and North America. Despite their tiny size, Netherland Dwarfs are energetic and active. They are friendly when handled but can be feisty compared to larger rabbit breeds. Their compact size and range of colors and patterns make them a cute addition to any home. Minimal grooming needs also appeal to owners. While their small stature does mean they are delicate and better suited to older children under supervision, overall Netherland Dwarfs make ideal house pets. Their growing popularity is a testament to their unique personality and appeal as the world’s smallest rabbits.

5. Lionhead

Lionhead Rabbit

The Lionhead rabbit breed earns its name from its signature feature: a mane-like fringe of long hair around the head. Weighing approximately 3-4 pounds, these small-to-medium sized rabbits originated in Belgium. Lionheads have a well-rounded body type and short fur across most of the body. People around the world have fallen in love with the unique appearance of the Lionhead, vaulting it into the ranks of most popular pet rabbits today. Beyond their looks, Lionheads have outgoing, friendly personalities when socialized properly. They are active and playful, providing lots of entertainment. Grooming their long head hair does take some effort to prevent matting. Owners also need to watch for potential health issues related to the hair around their eyes. But overall, Lionheads make endearing and lively companions for children and adults.

6. Flemish Giant

Flemish Giant Rabbit

The Flemish Giant rabbit is a breed of domestic rabbit that originated in Flanders, a region in Belgium. These rabbits are known for their large size and gentle disposition, making them a popular choice for both pet owners and show exhibitors. One of the most distinctive features of the Flemish Giant rabbit is its size. These rabbits can weigh up to 20 pounds and reach lengths of up to 3 feet. They have a sturdy and muscular build, with broad shoulders and a large head. The Flemish Giant rabbit also has long, thick fur that is typically a steel blue color, although they can also be found in other colors such as sandy, fawn, light gray, and white. Despite their intimidating size, Flemish Giant rabbits are known for their gentle and docile nature. They are easy to handle and are generally good with children, making them a suitable pet for families. Flemish Giant rabbits are also intelligent and can be trained to do basic tricks and perform in shows.

7. French Lop

French Lop Rabbit

Like its close cousin, the English Lop, the French Lop rabbit breed is characterized by its very large size and lengthy, floppy ears. Weighing 8-14 pounds on average, the French Lop originated in France before becoming popular in North America and beyond. Aside from being much heftier than average rabbits, French Lops also stand out for their intelligent, easygoing personalities. They tend to be laidback and docile versus hyperactive. The French Lop’s high sociability and affectionate nature when bonded with their owners also help explain why they rank among the most beloved companions. They come in many coat colors, including solid, broken, shaded, and patterned varieties. Despite their large size, French Lops can adapt well to indoor living with enough space and exercise. For these reasons, the French Lop retains unwavering popularity around the world today.

8. English Angora

English Angora Rabbit

The English Angora is distinguished by its incredibly long, fluffy coat that requires extensive grooming. Weighing 5.5-7.5 pounds, these medium-sized rabbits originated in Turkey before becoming popular in Britain by the early 1800s. The English Angora has hair up to 6 inches long across the body, giving it a woolly appearance reminiscent of sheep. In fact, their fur can be sheared and spun into yarn, just like sheep wool. Beneath that massive coat, English Angoras have cute faces and calm personalities when socialized properly. Keeping their fur free of tangles takes a great deal of effort, however. Their long coat also makes them vulnerable to excess heat. For those willing to invest time grooming these high-maintenance yet beautiful rabbits, English Angoras can make marvelous pets.

9. Giant Angora

Giant Angora Rabbit

The Giant Angora rabbit breed is a large and majestic animal that is known for its long, luxurious wool coat. These rabbits are known for their docile and gentle nature, making them a popular choice for both show and pet purposes.

The Giant Angora rabbit breed was first developed in the 17th century in Ankara, Turkey, where it was used for its soft wool which was used to make clothing and other textiles. The breed was later introduced to Europe in the 18th century and has been bred in many countries around the world since then.

The Giant Angora rabbit is a large breed, with males weighing between 10 and 12 pounds and females weighing between 8 and 10 pounds. They have a round and compact body with a wide chest and short, stocky legs. Their most distinguishing feature is their long, thick wool coat, which can grow up to 10 inches in length and requires regular grooming to maintain its soft and fluffy appearance.

The Giant Angora rabbit breed comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, blue, chocolate, and many others. They have a gentle and docile temperament, making them a popular choice for both show and pet purposes.

10. French Angora

The French Angora rabbit is a breed of domestic rabbit that is known for its long, silky fur. It is one of the oldest rabbit breeds in the world, dating back to the 16th century in France. French Angoras are small to medium in size, with a body that is well-balanced and muscular. They have a long, elegant neck and a head that is well-proportioned to their body.

One of the most distinctive features of the French Angora is its luxurious coat of fur. The coat is made up of both guard hairs and down hairs, which gives it its unique texture and appearance. The guard hairs are longer and coarser, and help to protect the rabbit’s skin from the elements. The down hairs, on the other hand, are shorter and softer, and provide insulation for the rabbit.

The French Angora rabbit comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, blue, chocolate, and lilac. Some French Angoras also have markings on their fur, such as spots or splashes of color. The breed is known for its calm and docile temperament, making it a popular choice as a pet. They are also intelligent and easy to train, and can learn basic commands and tricks with relative ease.

11. Californian

The Californian rabbit is a popular breed of domestic rabbit that originated in the United States. It is a large breed, with males weighing around 10-12 pounds and females weighing around 11-13 pounds. The Californian rabbit has a sleek, glossy coat that is predominantly white, with black markings on the ears, nose, feet, and tail.

The Californian rabbit was developed in the 1920s in California as a commercial rabbit breed for meat and fur production. It was created by breeding New Zealand White rabbits with Flemish Giant rabbits, resulting in a rabbit with a larger body size and a soft, fluffy coat.

The Californian rabbit is known for its docile temperament and ease of handling, making it a popular choice for novice rabbit owners. It is also a hardy breed, able to withstand colder temperatures and is resistant to many common rabbit diseases.

In addition to its striking appearance, the Californian rabbit is also known for its high fertility rate and efficient meat production. It is a popular choice for commercial rabbitries and small-scale rabbit farmers, as it is able to produce a large number of offspring in a short amount of time.

12. Rex

With their plush, velvety coats, Rex rabbits are one of the most popular breeds kept as house pets. Originating in France in the early 1900s, Rex rabbits weigh a medium 5-7.5 pounds fully grown. Their soft, short fur lacks longer guard hairs, giving Rex fur its unique texture often described as similar to chamois. While Rex rabbits come in a rainbow of colors, the deep chocolate brown is especially prized by breeders and owners. Beyond their luxuriously soft fur, Rex rabbits also make ideal pets thanks to their mellow, friendly personalities. They tolerate handling very well and enjoy human interaction. Rex rabbits are suitable for children with proper care and supervision. Minimal shedding makes them ideal indoor companions. For their combination of a beautiful coat and laidback temperament, Rex rabbits have long been favored by rabbit enthusiasts around the world.

13. Dutch

The Dutch rabbit is a popular breed of domestic rabbit that is known for its distinctive black, white, and orange coloration. It is a small to medium-sized rabbit, weighing between 2.5 and 4.5 pounds, with a compact, stocky body and a round head. The Dutch rabbit was first developed in the Netherlands in the 19th century, and it was originally bred as a meat rabbit. However, it quickly became popular as a pet due to its friendly personality and striking appearance. The breed was first recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association in 1888 and has been a popular choice for rabbit owners ever since. One of the most striking features of the Dutch rabbit is its coloring. The breed has a black head, white body, and orange markings on the cheeks, chest, and legs. This color pattern is known as “tricolor” and is considered the standard for the breed. However, there are also variations of the Dutch rabbit that have a different color pattern, including blue, chocolate, and steel. In addition to its appearance, the Dutch rabbit is known for its friendly and outgoing personality. They are generally easy to handle and make great pets for both children and adults.

14. Mini Satin

The Mini Satin rabbit breed is a small and elegant breed that is well-known for its sleek, glossy coat. These rabbits have a unique appearance, with long and slender bodies, large ears, and a distinctive satin sheen to their fur. They are an intelligent and social breed, making them a popular choice for both breeding and showing.

The Mini Satin breed was developed in the United States in the 1950s by breeding Mini Lops and Satin rabbits. The breed was recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) in 1959. Today, Mini Satins are widely recognized and popular throughout the world, with dedicated breed clubs and enthusiast groups in many countries.

One of the most distinctive features of Mini Satins is their coat. The breed is known for its satin-like sheen, which gives their fur a unique and luxurious appearance. The coat is soft and dense, with a short and velvety texture. Mini Satins come in a variety of colors, including black, blue, chocolate, lilac, and tortoiseshell.

In terms of size, Mini Satins are small rabbits, weighing between 2.5 and 3.5 pounds when fully grown. They have long and slender bodies, with large, upright ears and a round face. They are a compact breed, with a well-balanced and graceful appearance.

15. Satin

With its ultra-glossy, satiny fur, the Satin rabbit breed truly lives up to its name. Weighing 8-11 pounds fully grown, Satins have medium-large frames with compact bodies. Originating in the United States in the 1930s, Satins are unique for having fur with a transparent guard hair that refracts light differently, creating shine. Satins come in many spectacular colors, but red and white varieties tend to have especially showy, brilliant sheens. Beyond aesthetics, Satins typically have calm dispositions well-suited for living indoors as house pets. Their longer fur does require daily brushing to prevent tangles and properly showcase its signature silky texture. For their unmistakably lustrous coats combined with mellow personalities, Satin rabbits have long been popular across rabbit competitions and households.

16. American Fuzzy Lop

As its name implies, the American Fuzzy Lop is distinguished by its broken lop ears covered in a soft fuzz. Weighing 2-4 pounds, American Fuzzy Lops have compact bodies and rounded heads. Originating in the 1980s, their unique face shape and fur gives them a lovable, charming appearance. This medium-small rabbit breed requires moderate grooming to keep the longer fur around its head tidy and prevent matting. American Fuzzy Lops have calm, friendly personalities when socialized properly. They enjoy being held and pampered. Intelligent and observant, they will entertain themselves but also appreciate human interaction. For families seeking a cute, cuddly rabbit with minimal care needs, the American Fuzzy Lop makes an ideal choice for house pet.

17. Jersey Woolly

The Jersey Woolly is a small to medium-sized breed of domestic rabbit that is known for its dense, fluffy coat and friendly personality. It is a popular breed for both show and as a pet, and is widely recognized for its gentle disposition and playful nature. The Jersey Woolly was developed in the United States in the 1980s by breeding Netherland Dwarfs, a small breed of rabbit with a compact body and short, upright ears, with Angoras, a breed with long, silky fur. The goal was to create a breed with the body type and personality of a Netherland Dwarf and the fluffy coat of an Angora. The result was the Jersey Woolly, which was recognized as a distinct breed by the American Rabbit Breeders Association in 1988. One of the most appealing features of the Jersey Woolly is its soft, dense coat, which is characterized by a thick undercoat and long, wavy hairs that give the appearance of a plush, teddy bear-like texture. The breed comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, chocolate, lilac, and red, and there are even self-colored varieties that have a single color throughout their entire coat.

18. English Lop

Weighing up to 10+ pounds, the English Lop is one of the largest breeds of domestic rabbit. Originating in England, these big bunnies are known for their huge drooping ears that can measure up to 25 inches long! Beyond their imposing size and distinct ears, English Lops also have calm, docile personalities that make them gentle giants. They come in a wide array of coat colors and patterns and require moderate grooming to keep their fur looking sleek. Despite their large size, they adapt well to living indoors. However, their substantial bulk does mean they need plenty of room to hop around comfortably. English Lops also have specific dietary needs to maintain their health. While not ideal for younger children due to size, these mellow rabbits are beloved by rabbit enthusiasts. The popularity of the striking English Lop persists today across rabbit shows and as house pets.

19. New Zealand

The New Zealand rabbit breed originated in the early 20th century in the United States and was likely bred from wild European rabbits. Weighing 9-12 pounds and with medium-large frames, New Zealands are valued for their meat and fur production. They come in a range of colors including white, red, black, blue, and broken. Beyond utility purposes, New Zealands also make fabulous pets. They have outgoing, playful personalities when socialized properly at a young age. New Zealands are intelligent and respond well to training and handling when positively reinforced. Their short, dense fur requires weekly brushing. Inquisitive and energetic, New Zealand rabbits make ideal active companions for children or adults seeking a high-energy bunny pet.

20. Cinnamon

The Cinnamon rabbit lives up to its name with its rich reddish-brown fur reminiscent of the familiar baking spice. Weighing 5-8 pounds fully grown, Cinnamons originated in the 1960s in America. Their plush coat features dark slate underfur topped with cinnamon brown ticking. This warm yet vibrant coloring comes in several shades with the most desirable being a bright burnt cinnamon hue. In temperament, Cinnamons tend to be gentle, relaxed, and friendly when handled consistently. Their medium-length fur requires moderate grooming. For their rich, lustrous coats bearing the hue of prized cinnamon sticks, along with their mellow personalities, Cinnamon rabbits continue to find favor amongst rabbit enthusiasts worldwide.

21. Himalayan

The Himalayan rabbit takes its name from its resemblance to the color patterns of Himalayan cats. Weighing 3-5 pounds, Himalayans have compact bodies with short, dense fur. True to their name, they feature colorpoint markings, meaning dark extremities gradually lighten towards the body. The face, ears, legs, tail, and feet appear very dark compared to the lighter body. This contrasting color pattern gives Himalayans a striking, beautiful appearance that appeals to many rabbit owners. Originating in America in the 1920s, Himalayans also have calm, friendly personalities when socialized properly. They are lower maintenance in terms of grooming and care compared to long-haired breeds. For their visually appealing looks combined with an easygoing temperament, it’s no wonder Himalayans have long been a cherished rabbit breed.

22. Britannia Petite

The Britannia Petite rabbit weighs just 2-3.5 pounds fully grown, making it one of the smallest breeds. Developed in the 1980s in England, the Britannia Petite has a cute, rounded appearance. Underneath its petite frame, the Britannia Petite exhibits a lively, playful personality when properly socialized. Despite being tiny, Britannia Petites are remarkably hardy and robust when cared for properly. They come in a wide range of solid and broken coat colors. Minimal grooming is required. While their small stature means they’re delicate and best suited to older children under supervision, Britannia Petites make engaging companions when handled with care. For their pint-sized cuteness and lasting appeal, Britannia Petite rabbits continue gaining popularity worldwide.

23. Florida White

The Florida White is a breed of domestic rabbit that is known for its snowy white coat and compact, commercial-type body. Originally developed in Florida in the early 20th century, the Florida White is now a popular choice for meat production, show exhibitions, and as a pet. One of the main characteristics of the Florida White is its body type, which is known for being short and wide with a well-rounded hindquarter. Their adult weight typically ranges from 4 to 6 pounds. The breed was developed in the early 1900s by a group of rabbit breeders in Florida who were looking to create a rabbit that could thrive in the hot and humid climate of the state. To achieve this, they crossed a number of different rabbit breeds, including the New Zealand White, the Californian, and the Chinchilla. The resulting breed was the Florida White, which was known for its white coat, which helped to reflect sunlight and keep the rabbit cool in the hot weather.’

24. Checkered Giant

The Checkered Giant rabbit is aptly named for its distinctive color pattern resembling a checkerboard. Originating in America in the 1920s, Checkered Giants typically weigh 10-16 pounds fully grown, making them a very large breed. True to their name, Checkered Giants have locs of white fur intermingled with blocks of black and blue across their bodies. They have compact yet muscular frames. In personality, Checkered Giants tend to be easygoing and mild-mannered when handled gently and consistently. Their large size and longer fur do require adequate space and grooming. Provided proper care, though, Checkered Giants make appealing pets thanks to their stunning checked coats and relaxed dispositions.

25. Creme d’Argent

The Creme d’Argent rabbit is a breed of domestic rabbit that is known for its unique coat color and calm, docile personality. This breed originated in France, and it has become a popular choice for both pet owners and show enthusiasts.

One of the most distinctive features of the Creme d’Argent rabbit is its coat color. As the name suggests, this breed has a creamy white coat that is a result of a genetic mutation.

The Creme d’Argent rabbit is a medium-sized breed, with males weighing around 9 pounds and females weighing around 8 pounds. They have a relatively compact body with a broad, round head and large, expressive eyes. They have a short, dense coat that is easy to groom and maintain.

26. Blanc de Hotot

With their elegant white coats and contrasting black eyes and noses, Blanc de Hotot rabbits resemble refined little show dogs. Originating in France in the early 1900s, Blanc de Hotots typically weigh 8-10.5 pounds fully grown. True to their name meaning “white from Hotot,” Blanc de Hotots have all-white fur requiring weekly brushing and bathing to keep pristine. Beneath their aristocratic facade, Blanc de Hotots have playful, active personalities. They are smart, trainable rabbits that enjoy learning tricks. Typical of prey animals, they may initially be shy and wary. Early socialization helps them become curious, friendly companions. Show enthusiasts favor the Blanc de Hotot’s refined beauty. Pet owners appreciate their lively yet proper dispositions.

27. Harlequin

The Harlequin is a unique rabbit breed with a distinctive coat pattern that resembles the costumes of Harlequin clowns. Originating in France, Harlequins are medium-sized rabbits typically weighing 6-8 pounds. The defining feature of the Harlequin is its color pattern: shades of blue, orange, yellow, brown, and grey arranged in patches over the body. No two Harlequins have exactly the same markings. In addition to their eye-catching coat, Harlequins also have outgoing, inquisitive personalities. They are energetic and entertaining to watch zipping around. Consistent socialization will ensure Harlequins become friendly companions. They require moderate grooming to keep their longer fur looking its best. Harlequins adapt well to indoor living with proper room to exercise. Their gorgeous looks and lively dispositions make Harlequins ever popular across rabbit shows and homes worldwide.

28. Palomino

The Palomino rabbit breed bears the name of the golden horse coat color they replicate. Originating in America in the early 1990s, Palominos weigh approximately 10 pounds as adults. True to their namesake, Palominos have rich golden fur interspersed with white guard hairs, giving them a shiny, lustrous sheen. Their muted gold hue can range from pale cream to deep gold. In keeping with their equine inspiration, Palominos have athletic bodies, elongated heads, and upright ears. Despite their regal, spirited appearance, Palominos have even-tempered, friendly personalities when properly socialized. Their striking golden coats do require diligent grooming multiple times weekly. For their graceful beauty and mellow personalities, Palomino rabbits stand out in shows and as house pets.

29. Polish

The distinctive look of the Polish rabbit breed is instantly recognizable by its tiny, rounded body; fully arched back; and ears and head crest. Weighing under 3.5 pounds as adults, Polish rabbits originated in England in the early 1900s. Despite their petite size, Polish rabbits have energetic, inquisitive personalities. They thrive when provided adequate secure space to zoom around. While extroverted by nature, early socialization helps Polish rabbits become friendly and tolerant of handling. Their soft short fur requires only light weekly grooming. For their distinctive gnome-like appearance and lively spirit, Polish rabbits captivate rabbit lovers who don’t mind accommodating their active nature.

30. Standard Chinchilla

Not to be confused with the American Chinchilla, the Standard Chinchilla rabbit breed originated in France in the early 1900s. Weighing 9-12 pounds as adults, Standard Chinchillas have short, velvety fur that resembles the coat of wild chinchillas. Their fur is patterned with a slate blue undercoat tipped in black, lending a light sparkly appearance. In addition to their luxuriously soft, eye-catching coats, Standard Chinchillas have calm, gentle personalities once socialized properly. They are sensitive to loud noises or rough handling. Consistent, gentle interaction nurtures them into devoted, quiet companions. For their stunning pelts and mild-mannered natures, Standard Chinchillas are understandably favorites amongst rabbit breeders and pet owners.

31. American Sable

The American Sable rabbit displays a rich sepia brown coat resulting from dark-tipped guard hairs over chocolate brown fur. Originating in the 1990s in the United States, American Sables were likely bred from wild European rabbits. Weighing 8-11 pounds fully grown, the compact, muscular American Sable has a bold yet elegant appearance. In temperament, they tend to be inquisitive, energetic, and friendly when well-socialized. American Sables are highly trainable and make delightful, entertaining pets. Beyond admiring their stunning fur, owners appreciate the American Sable’s curious spirit and aptitude for learning tricks. Their dark sepia coats do require diligent grooming multiple times weekly. For their beauty and lively personality, the American Sable is gaining popularity across rabbit shows and homes.

32. Silver

The Silver Rabbit is a relatively new breed of domestic rabbit that was first developed in the United States in the 1990s. This breed is known for its distinctive silver-gray coat, which gives it its name.

The Silver Rabbit breed is a medium to large rabbit, with a sturdy and well-balanced body. Adults weigh between 4 to 7 pounds on average. They have a medium length, thick fur that is soft and plush to the touch. The color of the Silver Rabbit’s coat is a uniform silver-gray, with no other markings or patterns.

33. Lilac

The Lilac rabbit is a rabbit that is known for its soft, silvery-gray fur and distinctive lavender hue. Originally developed in France in the early 20th century, this breed has gained popularity around the world for its unique coloration and gentle disposition.

Lilac rabbits are medium in size, typically weighing between 5 and 7 pounds. They have a compact, round body shape with strong legs and a short, upright tail. Their ears are medium in length and stand upright, and their head is well-balanced with a straight profile.

34. Thrianta

The Thrianta is a newer rabbit breed known for its vibrant orange coloration. Originating in the early 2000s in Germany, Thriantas weigh approximately 7 pounds as adults. True to their name, derived from an Aboriginal word meaning “thunder,” Thriantas have rich, deep orange fur unlike any other breed. They may lighten somewhat with age but maintain their striking hue. In contrast to their eye-catching exterior, Thriantas have relaxed, friendly personalities when socialized from a young age. Their medium-length fur requires twice weekly brushing. While their stunning shade inevitably steals the spotlight, Thriantas also make personable, devoted pets once bonded with their owners. For their unique beauty and amiable temperaments they are rising fast in popularity.

35. Tan

Unsurprisingly named for their distinctive orange-brown hue, Tan rabbits originated in England in the 1880s. Weighing 4-6 pounds fully grown, Tans have short, dense fur ranging from pale orange to a darker burnt orange color. Their rounded compact bodies and clean-cut fur gives Tans an attractively tidy appearance. In temperament, Tans tend to be active and sociable. With proper handling, they become friendly and curious companions. Tans do require more frequent grooming compared to short-haired breeds. Their signature tangerine shade also walks the fine line between eye-catching and messy-looking if care is inadequate. Nonetheless, those willing to put in the maintenance time will surely treasure the Tan’s glossy burnt-orange beauty.

36. Silver Marten

The Silver Marten has a unique coat that sets it apart from other rabbit breeds. Weighing 5-7.5 pounds as adults, Silver Martens have short, dense fur that is jet black with silver-tipped guard hairs. This striking coat color coupled with a medium-sized frame with tall ears gives Silver Martens an eye-catching appearance. Originating in the early 20th century, Silver Martens also exhibit playful personalities and intelligence in learning tricks or litter training. They are more active than some breeds and require daily exercise. Grooming needs are moderate to keep their coat looking shiny and healthy. Given their energy and mischievousness, Silver Martens may not be ideal for very young children but are certainly charming pets for older kids and adults who enjoy an active rabbit.

37. Silver Fox

The Silver Fox rabbit bears a stunning pelt with fur that sparkles silver due to black ticking across the white base color. Weighing 7-10.5 pounds as adults, Silver Foxes originated in the early 1900s in the United States. Beyond their luminously beautiful short coats, Silver Fox rabbits also exhibit friendly personalities when socialized properly. They are intelligent and respond readily to clicker training. Silver Foxes are energetic and benefit from an outlet for exercise each day. Their glistening fur requires diligent grooming multiple times per week to keep looking its best. For their dazzling coats and lively yet trainable dispositions, Silver Fox rabbits shine both at shows and in homes as pets.

38. Rhinelander

The Rhinelander rabbit breed displays a distinctive coat pattern reminiscent of calico cats. Originating in Germany in the early 1900s, Rhinelanders weigh approximately 8 pounds fully grown. Their short, dense fur features an intricate combination of black, brown, yellow, and white arranged in abstract patches and spots. No two Rhinelanders share the exact coat pattern. While admired for their beautifully variegated fur, Rhinelanders also make personable pets. They are intelligent, energetic, and affectionate when socialized properly. Their bold coats require conscientious grooming several times weekly. For their one-of-a-kind markings and charming personalities, Rhinelanders are understandably popular across rabbit shows and homes.

39. Havana

One of the most striking features of the Havana rabbit is its coat, which ranges in color from a deep, rich chocolate brown to a lighter, reddish-brown hue. The coat is thick and dense, and requires regular grooming to maintain its soft, shiny texture. The Havana rabbit also has a broad, round head with large, expressive eyes, and long, floppy ears that hang down on either side of its face.

In terms of size, the Havana rabbit is considered a medium-sized breed, weighing in at around 6-8 pounds when fully grown. Despite its compact size, the Havana rabbit is known for its muscular build and strong, sturdy legs, which make it well-suited for a variety of activities, including hopping and playing.

The history of the Havana rabbit can be traced back to the 19th century, when it was first developed in the United Kingdom as a cross between the Belgian Hare and the Dutch rabbit.

40. English Spot

The elegant English Spot rabbit breed is named for its distinctive coat pattern: white with colored spots. Originating in England in the late 19th century, these medium-sized bunnies weigh 4-6.5 pounds fully grown. The spots come in a variety of shades, including black, blue, chocolate, gold, gray, and lilac. Coat patterns can range from a speckled look to more defined, rounder spots. English Spots also stand out for their active, friendly personalities when socialized properly from a young age. They require regular brushing to keep their short, dense coats looking their best. Minimal shedding makes them suitable for indoor living. For their attractive spotted markings and lively yet trainable dispositions, English Spots are a longtime favorite breed exhibited in rabbit shows and kept as pets.

41. Dwarf Papillon

The Dwarf Papillon is a relatively new breed, having been developed in the 1970s by breeding Miniature Lops and Netherland Dwarfs. It is a cross between these two breeds, resulting in a small rabbit with distinctive, erect ears that are adorned with markings resembling a butterfly. The breed is named for these markings, as “papillon” is French for butterfly.

The Dwarf Papillon is a small breed, with adult males weighing between 2 and 3.5 pounds and females weighing between 2.5 and 4 pounds. They have a compact, stocky body type and are known for their playful and energetic personality.

42. Dwarf Hotot

The Dwarf Hotot rabbit is a small and charming breed that is known for its unique appearance. With its distinctive white coat and black eye circles, the Dwarf Hotot is a striking and eye-catching rabbit. Originally developed in Germany in the early 20th century, the breed became recognized by ARBA in 1983.

Dwarf Hotots are small in size, with a maximum weight of about 3 pounds. They have a compact and round body shape, with short, sturdy legs and a short, rounded head.

43. Champagne d’Argent

The Champagne D’Argent rabbit lives up to its elegant French name, meaning “silver champagne.” Originating in France in the early 1900s, Champagne D’Argents weigh 7-10.5 pounds fully grown. True to their moniker, these rabbits have a creamy silver-white coat with a subtle champagne hue. Their soft, medium-length fur requires conscientious grooming. Beneath their aristocratic exterior, Champagne D’Argents have friendly, inquisitive personalities when socialized properly. They enjoy human interaction and make devoted companions when handled consistently. For their refined beauty and charm, Champagne D’Argents are understandably favorites of rabbit enthusiasts in shows and homes. Their sophisticated allure promises to keep them popular for years to come.

44. Beveren

The Beveren rabbit breed is characterized by its large size and distinctive color pattern. Originating in Belgium in the 1920s, Beverens typically weigh 8-12 pounds. True to their name, derived from the Belgian town they originated in, Beverens have dark slate blue fur lightly tipped in black. This gives their coat a subtle gloss with a hint of lighter sky blue. Despite their imposing bulk, Beverens have calm gentle personalities when handled consistently. They are intelligent and respond well to training when positively reinforced. The Beveren’s medium-length coat needs regular grooming several times weekly. For their stunning coloration and amenable temperaments, Beverens are understandably favorites of rabbit fanciers globally.

45. Argente Brun

The Argente Brun rabbit is a breed of domestic rabbit that originated in France. It is a medium-sized rabbit, with a weight range of 5 to 7 pounds. The breed is known for its distinctive coloration, which is a dark brown or black coat with silver-tipped hairs, giving it a shimmering, silver-gray appearance.

The Argente Brun is a relatively new breed, having been developed in the early 20th century. It was created by crossing the Argente rabbit, which is a silver-gray breed with a similar color pattern, with the Brun Angora rabbit, a breed known for its long, dense fur. The result was a rabbit with the shimmering silver-gray coat of the Argente and the long, soft fur of the Brun Angora.

46. American Chinchilla

Despite its name, the American Chinchilla breed is not closely related to true South American chinchillas. Weighing 8-12 pounds as adults, American Chinchillas originated in the early 1900s in the United States. They have shorter, denser fur than their wild cousins. The American Chinchilla coat is patterned with a slate blue gray body lightly tipped in black. This creates an subtly dazzling effect, much like a chinchilla’s fur. American Chinchillas are also known for their kind, curious temperaments when properly handled and trained. Though not quite as hyperactive as their namesake, American Chinchillas are active, energetic, and require lots of exercise. Their stunning coats need meticulous grooming multiple times per week to stay looking their best. For their beauty and charm, American Chinchillas are favored by many rabbit enthusiasts today.

47. American

The American Rabbit Breed is a medium to large breed, with adults weighing between 8 and 12 pounds. They have a compact body with broad shoulders and a well-rounded hind end. They have long, erect ears that stand up to 4 inches tall, and their fur is dense, glossy, and short. The American Rabbit officially comes in two color varieties; Blue and White.

The American rabbit is listed as being a rare breed by the American Livestock Breed Conservancy.

48. Meissner Lop

The Meissner Lop is a breed of domestic rabbit that is known for its docile and friendly personality, as well as its beautiful, soft fur. Originally developed in Germany in the early 20th century, the Meissner Lop is named after its breeder, Hermann Meissner.

One of the most striking features of the Meissner Lop is its long, floppy ears. These ears can reach up to 10 inches in length and give the rabbit a distinctive and adorable appearance. The breed also has a compact and well-rounded body, with short legs and a broad, muscular chest.

The Meissner Lop comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, chocolate, lilac, and red, among others.

49. Cashmere Lop

The Cashmere Lop rabbit breed is a small, affectionate breed that is known for its luxurious, soft fur. This breed is a popular choice for those who are looking for a friendly and cuddly pet, as well as for those who are interested in showing or breeding rabbits. The Cashmere Lop was first developed in the United Kingdom in the 1970s, and it is now recognized by several rabbit breeding organizations worldwide.

There are several recognized color varieties of the Cashmere Lop, including black, blue, chocolate, fawn, lilac, orange, and red. The breed standard for the Cashmere Lop calls for a solid-colored coat with a distinct and uniform color throughout.

In terms of size, the Cashmere Lop is a small to medium-sized rabbit. Adults typically weigh between 4 and 7 pounds and have a body length of around 12 inches. This breed has a compact, sturdy body and a short, wide head.

50. Velveteen Lop

The Velveteen Lop is a breed of domestic rabbit that is known for its soft, velvety coat and lop ears. This breed was developed in the United States in the 1980s by crossing English Lop and French Lop rabbits with other lop breeds. The result was a rabbit with a unique, plush coat and long, floppy ears that resemble those of the English Lop.

Velveteen Lops are medium to large-sized rabbits, weighing between 6 and 12 pounds when fully grown. They have a round, cobby body type and a broad head with a short, broad nose. Their ears are their most distinctive feature, hanging down to about the same length as their body and giving them a calm, laid-back appearance.

Velveteen Lops come in a variety of colors, including black, blue, chocolate, lilac, and red. They may also have white markings on their feet, chest, and face. Their coat is short and dense, with a soft, velvety texture that is highly sought after by rabbit breeders and owners.

51. Belgian Hare

Unlike its name suggests, the Belgian Hare is actually a domestic rabbit breed and not a true hare. Originating in Belgium in the early 1800s, the Belgian Hare weighs 8-12 pounds as an adult. True to its name, Belgian Hares have tall slender bodies that give them a regal, elegant appearance reminiscent of a hare. Their long legs and ears contribute to this graceful, athletic physique. Belgian Hares have short, dense fur that requires weekly brushing to stay looking neat. They come in a variety of colors including chocolate, black, blue, fawn, red, and tan. Active and energetic, Belgian Hares need ample room to hop and play. They are intelligent and can be trained to do tricks. For their graceful beauty, lively personalities, and striking resemblance to wild hares, Belgian Hares have captivated rabbit enthusiasts since the 19th century.

Updated Comparison Chart

Breed Avg Weight Appearance and Coloring
Mini Lop 3-6 lbs Lop ears, Varieties: agouti, broken, pointed white, self, shaded, ticked, wide band
Holland Lop 2-4 lbs Lop ears, Varieties: broken, pointed white, self, shaded, wide band
Mini Rex 3-4.5 lbs Short dense fur, upright ears, Varieties: black, blue, broken, castor, chinchilla, chocolate, lilac, lynx, opal, red, seal, white
Netherland Dwarf 2-4 lbs Compact body, short ears, Varieties: agouti, broken, Himalayan, self, shaded, tan pattern
Lionhead 2.5-4 lbs Wool mane around head, upright ears, Varieties: black, blue, broken, chocolate, ruby-eyed white, siamese sable, tortoise
Flemish Giant 8-14 lbs Massive body, upright ears, Varieties: black, blue, fawn, light gray, sandy, steel gray, white
French Lop 9-14 lbs Long pendulous ears, Varieties: agouti, broken, self, shaded, ticked
English Angora 5.5-10.5 lbs Long silky fur, upright ears, Varieties: broken, pointed white, ruby-eyed white, self
Giant Angora 7.5-10 lbs Long silky fur, lop ears, Varieties: broken, pointed white, ruby-eyed white, self
French Angora 6.5-10 lbs Long silky fur, upright ears, Varieties: agouti, broken, self
Californian 8-12 lbs Red eyes, upright ears, solid white fur, black on ears, nose, paws & tail
Rex 6-10.5 lbs Velvety dense fur, upright ears, Varieties: black, blue, broken, Californian, castor, chinchilla, chocolate, lilac, lynx, opal, red, seal, white
Dutch 3.5-5.5 lbs Distinctive color pattern, upright ears, Varieties: black, blue, chocolate, gray, steel, tortoise
Mini Satin 3-4.5 lbs Soft glossy fur, upright ears, Varieties: black, blue, broken, chocolate, opal, red, siamese, tortoise
Satin 9-12 lbs Soft glossy fur, upright ears, Varieties: black, blue, broken, Californian, chocolate, copper, otter, red, white
American Fuzzy Lop 3-4 lbs Long fur lop ears, broken pattern coat
Jersey Wooly 1.5-3.5 lbs Wooly fur, small upright ears, Varieties: agouti, broken, self, shaded, tan pattern
English Lop 9-11 lbs Extremely long lop ears, Varieties: broken, self, shaded
New Zealand 9-12 lbs Commercial meat breed, upright ears, red/white or black/white coat
Cinnamon 3-5 lbs Reddish brown coat, upright ears, ruby eyes
Himalayan 2.5-4.5 lbs Colorpoint coat, upright ears, blue eyes
Britannia Petite 2-3 lbs Small compact body, upright ears, silver/black coat
Florida White 4-6 lbs All white short fur, pink eyes, upright ears
Checkered Giant 10-12 lbs Spotted black and white coat, upright ears
Creme d’Argent 7-10.5 lbs Light beige coat, pink eyes, upright ears
Blanc de Hotot 4-10 lbs White body with black bands on eyes and ears
Harlequin 7-9 lbs Japanese breed,broken pattern with orange and black/blue, upright ears
Palomino 8-11 lbs Golden coat with white belly, upright ears, blue/brown eyes
Polish 2.5-3.5 lbs Short ears with tufts, Varieties: black, blue, broken, chocolate, ruby-eyed white, blue-eyed white
Standard Chinchilla 9-12 lbs Light gray ticked fur, upright ears, pink eyes
American Sable 4-6 lbs Sepia brown coat, upright ears
Silver 4-7 lbs Black tipped steel gray fur, upright ears
Lilac 3-4.5 lbs Frosty gray coat, red/pink eyes, upright ears
Thrianta 4-5 lbs Orange-red coat, upright ears
Tan 4-6 lbs Red coat with black markings, upright ears
Silver Marten 6-9 lbs Silver blue coat with black markings, upright ears
Silver Fox 7-11 lbs Black base coat with white ticking, upright ears
Rhinelander 7-12 lbs Broken pattern of blue, black, red, and white, upright ears
Havana 4-6 lbs Chocolate brown coat, upright ears
English Spot 5-8 lbs White coat with colored spots, upright ears
Dwarf Papillon 3 lbs Upright ears with long fur fringes, broken pattern coat
Dwarf Hotot 3-4 lbs Solid white with black eye bands, upright ears
Champagne d’Argent 7-12 lbs Silver coat with orange hue, upright ears
Beveren 5-8 lbs White coat, upright ears with long fringe
Argente Brun 9-12 lbs Chinchilla gray with brown cast, upright ears
American Chinchilla 9-12 lbs Heavy chinchilla fur pattern, upright ears
American 9-12 lbs Large commercial breed, red/white or blue/white coat
Meissner Lop 6-8 lbs Medium-sized lop ears, broken pattern coat
Cashmere Lop 6-9 lbs Medium-sized lop ears, broken pattern coat
Velveteen Lop 4-5 lbs Dwarf lop ears, broken pattern coat
Belgian Hare 7-10 lbs Tan coat with black ticking, upright ears

Breeds of Rabbits

Believe it or not? The Rabbit Breeds Picture above is a real photograph. Rabbits do indeed come in all different shapes and sizes. Some rabbit breeds are huge when full grown while others can weigh less than five pounds. In this article I will be providing you with a rabbit breeds chart which will help you learn more about the many breeds of domestic rabbits.


Types of Rabbit Breeds

There are two main types of rabbit breeds in which all other classifications fall into; domestic and wild rabbit breeds. All of the breeds of rabbits recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association are domestic breeds. Domestic rabbits can be kept at home and raised while wild rabbits should not be handled. Today's domestic line of rabbits originated from the European Rabbit which was selectively bred for desirable traits over a long period of time.

Types of Rabbit Breeds

Since there are literally hundreds of rabbit breeds kept worldwide, in this article I am going to focus solely upon the ones recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association. If you wish to learn more about how rabbit breeds are classified check out our Types of Rabbits article.


Breeds of Rabbits: A through Z Listing

The 47 ARBA recognized rabbit breeds are as follows, listed in alphabetic order…

Rabbit Breed Chart

Rabbit
Breed
Rabbit
Size
Rabbit Body
Type
Rabbit
Fur
Rabbit
Breeders

Table by Rabbit BreedersJump to Top

American 9-12 lbs Semi Arch Flyback American Rabbit Breeders
American Chinchilla 9-12 lbs Commercial Rollback American Chinchilla Rabbit Breeders
American Fuzzy Lop Max 4 lbs Compact Wool American Fuzzy Lop Rabbit Breeders
American Sable Max 10 lbs Commercial Rollback American Sable Rabbit Breeders
Belgian Hare 6-9 lbs Full Arch Flyback Belgian Hare Rabbit Breeders
Beveren 8-12 lbs Semi Arch Rollback Beveren Rabbit Breeders
Blanc de Hotot 8-11 lbs Commercial Rollback Blanc de Hotot Rabbit Breeders
Britannia Petite 2.25-2.50 lbs Full Arch Flyback Britannia Petite Rabbit Breeders
Californian 8-10.25 lbs Commercial Flyback Californian Rabbit Breeders
Champagne d’Argent 9-12 lbs Commercial Flyback Champagne D' Argent Rabbit Breeders
Checkered Giant 11+ lbs Full Arch Flyback Checkered Giant Rabbit Breeders
Cinnamon 9-11 lbs Commercial Flyback Cinnamon Rabbit Breeders
Creme d’Argent 8.25-11 lbs Commercial Flyback Creme D' Argent Rabbit Breeders
Dutch 4-5.25 lbs Compact Flyback Dutch Rabbit Breeders
Dwarf Hotot Max 3 lbs Compact Rollback Dwarf Hotot Rabbit Breeders
English Angora 5-7.5 lbs Compact Wool English Angora Rabbit Breeders
English Lop Min. 10 lbs Semi Arch Flyback English Lop Rabbit Breeders
English Spot 6-8 lbs Full Arch Flyback English Spot Rabbit Breeders
Flemish Giant 13-14+ lbs Semi Arch Rollback Flemish Giant Rabbit Breeders
Florida White 4-6 lbs Compact Flyback Florida White Rabbit Breeders
French Angora 9-10.5 lbs Commercial Wool French Angora Rabbit Breeders
French Lop 11+ lbs Commercial Flyback French Lop Rabbit Breeders
Giant Angora 9-10.5+ lbs Commercial Wool Giant Angora Rabbit Breeders
Giant Chinchilla 13-15 lbs Semi Arch Flyback Giant Chinchilla Rabbit Breeders
Harlequin 7.5 lbs Commercial Flyback Harlequin Rabbit Breeders
Havana 5-6 lbs Compact Flyback Havana Rabbit Breeders
Himalayan 3-5 lbs Cylindrical Flyback Himalayan Rabbit Breeders
Holland Lop 3-4 lbs Compact Rollback Holland Lop Rabbit Breeders
Jersey Wooly 3-3.5 lbs Compact Wool Jersey Wooly Rabbit Breeders
Lilac 6-8 lbs Compact Rollback Lilac Rabbit Breeders
Mini Lop 5-6 lbs Compact Rollback Mini Lop Rabbit Breeders
Mini Rex 3-4.5 lbs Compact Rex Mini Rex Rabbit Breeders
Mini Satin 4 lbs Compact Satin Mini Satin Rabbit Breeders
Netherland Dwarf 2-2.5 lbs Compact Rollback Netherland Dwarf Rabbit Breeders
New Zealand 9-12 lbs Commercial Flyback New Zealand Rabbit Breeders
Palomino 8-10 lbs Commercial Flyback Palomino Rabbit Breeders
Polish 3-3.5 lbs Compact Flyback Polish Rabbit Breeders
Rex 8-9 lbs Commercial Rex Rex Rabbit Breeders
Rhinelander 6.5-10 lbs Full Arch Flyback Rhinelander Rabbit Breeders
Satin 9-11 lbs Commercial Satin Satin Rabbit Breeders
Satin Angora 8-9 lbs Commercial Wool Satin Angora Rabbit Breeders
Silver Max 9.5 lbs Compact Flyback Silver Rabbit Breeders
Silver Fox Max 12 lbs Commercial Rollback Silver Fox Rabbit Breeders
Silver Marten 6-9 lbs Commercial Flyback Silver Marten Rabbit Breeders
Standard Chinchilla 6-7.5 lbs Compact Rollback Standard Chinchilla Rabbit Breeders
Tan 4-6 lbs Full Arch Flyback Tan Rabbit Breeders
Thrianta 4.5-6 lbs Compact Rollback Thrianta Rabbit Breeders

Selecting a Rabbit Breed

Selecting a rabbit breed is definitely one of the most important decisions that you will make for your rabbitry. Luckily for you, there are over 47 different breeds of rabbits to choose from. This is when you will want to recall the “purpose” that you decided on at the beginning of this book. Any rabbit breeder will tell you that some breeds are definitely more ideal for different purposes.

Things to Consider When Selecting a Rabbit Breed

  • Purpose of your Rabbitry
  • Rabbit Size
  • Rabbit Body Type
  • Type of Fur
  • Color/Markings
  • Growth Rate/Litter Production
  • Your Climate (is it too hot or too cold?)

Meat Rabbit Breeds

If you plan on raising rabbits for meat I strongly recommend that you choose a large “commercial” rabbit breed which will produce fast growing offspring with a good meat to bone ratio. I personally recommend raising Californians or New Zealands as meat rabbits. They grow fast; have large litters and overall make excellent “meat rabbits”.

Here is a list of “for meat” rabbit breeds that many different breeders recommend

  • American Chinchilla
  • Beveren
  • Blanc D’Hotot
  • Californian (My favorite breed)
  • Champagne D’Argents
  • Crème D’Argents
  • Flemish Giants (Giant animals but tend to have lower meat to bone dress out ratios)
  • Florida White
  • French Lops
  • New Zealand (Highly Recommended)
  • Palomino
  • Satin
  • Silver Fox

Some breeders recommend raising a crossbred animal such as a Californian-New Zealand hybrid for meat purposes.

One of the most popular hybrid rabbit meat breeds is the Altex (Although not recognized by ARBA). The Altex was developed from a cross of the Flemish Giant, Champagne D’ Argent and Californian. At adult size these cross bred rabbits weigh between 10 and 20 pounds. Studies performed at the Texas A&M University have shown that Altex fryers tend to reach market age earlier than other meat breeds. Many rabbit breeders however don’t recommend that your primary herd animal be the “Altex” for several reasons. The Altex doe will generally give birth to smaller litters than other meat rabbits. To solve this issue, many breeders recommend breeding an Altex buck to a Californian/New Zealand doe or an Altex doe to a New Zealand buck.

Show Rabbit Breeds

If you plan on primarily raising rabbits for show, you will have an excellent variety of breeds to choose from! All 47 ARBA recognized breeds are eligible to be shown at any major rabbit show. However be warned; most local shows will not accept every breed. If you plan on raising up one of the “rare” breeds such as the Blanc de Hotot; you might have to drive a distance in order to find available shows.

A good practice when choosing a show breed is to ask other breeders in your area for their opinion on selecting a breed. In Southeast, Texas for instance most breeders raise Californians or New Zealands. They are multi-purpose animals which can be shown at two different types of rabbit shows; Meat Pen Rabbit Shows and Rabbit Fancier Shows. Even if you don’t plan on eating rabbit yourself, raising either one of these breeds will help guarantee that you have an outlet to sell unwanted rabbits.

Here is a list of “for show” rabbit breeds that many different breeders recommend

  • American
  • Californian
  • Dutch
  • Flemish Giant
  • Lilac
  • Lop
  • Mini Rex
  • New Zealand
  • Palomino
  • Polish
  • Satin
  • Tan

These are simply a few recommendations that breeders have given me… if you fall in love with a different breed (not on the list), feel free to experiment!

Fur Rabbit Breeds

Most breeders agree on what the best fur rabbit breeds are. If you are choosing to raise rabbits particularly for fur, I highly recommend that you select a breed labeled as having either having wool or angora fur. The most popular “for fur” breed is the Angora Rabbit.

Here is a list of “for show” rabbit breeds that many different breeders recommend

  • American Fuzzy Lop
  • English Angora
  • French Angora
  • Giant Angora
  • Jersey Wooly
  • Satin Angora

Pet Rabbit Breeds

In many countries rabbits are quickly becoming one of the most common pets. When choosing a “for pet” rabbit, I suggest that you select one of the small or medium breeds. These animals will generally be tamer than the larger breeds such as the Californian and will be easier for young children to handle. Remember, the best production animals don’t usually make the best pets.

Here is a list of “for pet” rabbit breeds that many different pet bunny owners recommend

  • Belgian Hare
  • Cinnamon
  • Dutch
  • Dwarf Hotot
  • English Spot
  • Flemish Giant (Size is great for impressing a friend)
  • Harlequin
  • Himalayan
  • Lionhead
  • Lops (My favorites are the Holland and Mini Lops)
  • Mini Rex
  • Mini Satin
  • Netherland Dwarf (So tiny and cute)
  • Rex
  • Tan
  • Thrianta

Also if you are planning on raising rabbits for pets, it is important to consider whether or not you want to breed rabbits. If you are new to rabbit raising and plan on breeding for pets, you might want to start off with a medium breed (they tend to have less birth complications than smaller breeds). Some small breeds such as the Tan and Mini Satin are still great choices for the first time breeder. Just make sure the breed that you choose weighs over 4 pounds at adulthood.


Rabbit Breeds – Chart Analysis

The rabbit breeds chart above categorizes the different rabbit breeds by Body Type and Fur Type…


Rabbit Breeds Body Type


Rabbit Breeds Fur Type