Introduction:
The small rabbit breed is not just a pet; It’s like a little package of love and happiness wrapped in soft velvet. Although they are small enough, their personality and daily activities can keep your home full of joy always. It’s simple presence can calm the storm of your mind in an offhand. Moreover, those playful behaviors can bring a few laughs to even the toneless day. This cute looking little animal is especially loved by all the animal lovers all over the world.
So, if you are thinking to take a pet for your family, a small rabbit breeds can be the best choice. In this guide we will explore the best small rabbit breeds for you. Their history and origin, nature and physical characteristics.
Read About Our Latest Blog about the Complete Guide to Meat Rabbit Breeding.
Things to know of Small Rabbit Breeds:
On average, an adult rabbit usually weighs 5-7 pounds. However, some rabbits weighing 10 pounds or more are also available, although they are rare. So, if you want a rabbit that is small in size, you need to know about specific ‘mini’ and ‘dwarf’ rabbit breeds.
Apparently all small rabbit breeds look similar, but in reality, they are different in colour, coat type and breeds.
Additionally, several terms are used to describe small rabbit breeds like “dwarf” and “mini,” but there are some specific differences between them.
Generally, a dwarf rabbit carries the dwarf gene. They have certain physical characteristics including large eyes, small ears, a large-round head and a small body.
On the other hand, A ‘mini’ rabbit refers to a few different sort, some dwarf and some non-dwarf. Non-dwarf mini rabbits are smaller versions of existing species and different physical characteristics from dwarf rabbits.
In other words, all dwarf and mini rabbits are small in size, but all small rabbit breeds are not dwarf or mini.
Dwarf and mini breeds of rabbits are discussed below.
Netherland Dwarf:
This kind of dwarf breeds originated in Netherlands at the beginning of the 20th century. They originally bred from wild rabbits and small domestic breeds. These kind of rabbits can weigh a maximum of 1.1 to 2.5 pounds.
Although they are small in size, they have a big personality.The necks of such rabbits are relatively short and the head is as large as their body. They have thick, glittering and short coats of different colours.
Their large expressive eyes and small straight ears give them a child-like appearance.
The Netherlands Dwarf are also known for their energetic and lively nature. They are curious and like to learn about their surroundings.
These rabbits will take some time to form emotional bonding with you but gradually they will develop a strong and affectionate bond.
Although they are sweet-natured, they are quite active and can be a bit unsubmissive. So, if you have kids at home
Netherland Dwarfs may not be suitable for your home.
Dwarf Hotot:
They weigh 2.5 to 3.5 pounds at most. Their beautiful round bodies are covered in white fur and their eyes are surrounded by black “eyeliner”.
Dwarf hotot are friendly and affectionate. Besides being easy to handle, its acceptance as a pet is increasing.
It was bred in Germany in the early 1980s by crossing White Hotot with smaller breeds of rabbits. Dwarf Hotot is also known as “Eye of the Fancy” to some specific regions.
These rabbits can easily form a close bond with you and become a part of family activities.
Additionally, their calm and gentle nature makes them friendly to children in your home.
Mini Rex:
The Mini Rex breed was developed in the United States in the 1980s by breeding standard Rex rabbits with smaller breeds. An adult Mini Rex is usually 3 to 4.5 pounds.
Mini Rexes have a round body covered in plush and velvety fur. They are known for their outgoing personalities and easy to care for. They are really playful and calm. Additionally, Their friendly behaviour makes them an ultimate choice to rabbit lovers.
They wander in the yard, reputed to participate in family discussions and love cuddles from owners.
Jersey wooly:
Weighing 1 to 3 pounds, the Jersey Woolly is one of the smallest rabbits in the world. They are often described as “mug heads” for their compact build, straight ears and square head. Their body is covered with short hairs of different colors.
In 1980, American breeder Bonnie created a crossbreed between a French Angora and a Netherland Dwarf. They are gentle in nature. It can be a good choice as your family pet as it is easy to handle.
Additionally, Jersey Woolly Rabbits have a reputation for not kicking or biting their owners.
Polish:
Polish Rabbit is originated in England in the mid-19th century. They were mainly developed by mixing small compact varieties.
These rabbits weigh 2.5 to 3.5 pounds
Compact and round with small ears. They have a smooth coat.
Polish rabbits are docile, calm and friendly in nature. They can be an ideal choice for your first rabbit as they are easy to train.
This kind of small rabbit breeds have a good reputation for forming strong bonds with their owners.
Columbia Basin Pygmy:
Native to the Columbia Basin region of Washington state and rare, this breed is one of the smallest species of rabbit. They are found only in a small area of Washington state.
An adult Columbia Basin Pygmy weighs less than 1 pound. Biologists were later able to save only 16 rabbits after extensive searches after they were declared extinct in the 1990s.
They are primarily kept at the Zoo of Oregon. Therefore, Columbia Basin Pygmy is not available as a pet.
Their bodies are covered in small, delicate frames with soft fur. They are shy and delicate in nature. They require special care to nurture.
English Angora:
The English Angora originated in Turkey and later they were brought to Europe in 18th century. This 5 to 6 pound rabbit is one of the oldest small rabbit breeds.
They look like round balls. Gentle and sociable, this English Angora rabbit breed is excellent as a pet.
Lionhead:
Originating in Belgium, this rabbit is named Lionhead for its high-mounted head and woolly fur surrounding its lion-like neck. They are known for their short furred ears and straight body shape. An adult Lionhead rabbit breed can weigh up to 4 pounds. Characteristically they have a friendly demeanor, energetic nature and outgoing personality. They also have a reputation for being tolerant of children.
They enjoy human contact most. Its playful activities are enough to color your every moment.
American fuzzy lop:
The American Fuzzy Lop rabbit is the crossbreeding of Angora rabbits and Holland Lops. The usual weight of American fuzzy lop is up to 3-4 pounds. They are known for their “bulldog”-like flat faces and drooping ears. They have a broad chest and are physically stronger than other rabbits. The American Fuji Loop is also known as “The Head of Fancy”. They are active and playful and also known for their soft temperament. They are excellent pets if given proper care.
Holland lop:
The Holland Lop was developed in Netherlands in the 1950s by breeder named Adrian de Cock. It is very popular among dwarf rabbits. An adults Holland Lop usually have a
Weighs of 2 to 4 pounds. Although they are small in body structure, they are very muscular.
Their heads are relatively large and they have long ears with broad hairs at the bottom. But the “crown” of fur on the back of the head sets them apart from all other rabbits. They are incredibly clever, friendly, easy to raise and love to be in contact with their owners.
Britannia Petite:
Originating in the UK, this small breed is known for their graceful and arched physique.
They can usually weigh 2 pounds or more. This type of rabbit has large eyes, erect ears and a narrow head. Due to their active and energetic temperament, they are considered suitable for competitions involving jumping obstacles. They are very strong and must be handled with great care. So this rabbit may not be suitable for you if you have no previous experience with raising rabbits.
In addition, they like to play sports outdoors. This type of rabbit needs plenty of outdoor time.
Mini Satin:
The mini satin rabbit developed in the United States looks a lot like a mini rex. However, their fur is extremely soft and shiny like silk. They usually weigh 4 to 5 pounds. Behaviorally they are very friendly and curious. Like most other rabbits, they like to be around people.
Himalayan :
Himalayan is the oldest breed of rabbit. There is no exact and clear idea about its origin But it is equally known all over the world. Their body is usually cylindrical.
They have special markings on their nose, legs, and ears. They are specially recognised by their red eyes. Himalayan rabbits are also known for their easy-going nature.
FAQs: Small rabbit breeds
What are the best small rabbit breeds for families with children?
Small rabbit breeds like the Mini Rex and Lionhead are known for their friendly and gentle nature, making them ideal for families with children.
How do dwarf rabbits differ from mini rabbits?
Dwarf rabbits carry a specific gene that gives them distinctive physical traits like large eyes and small ears. Mini rabbits can be either dwarf or non-dwarf, being smaller versions of other rabbit breeds.
What is the average lifespan of small rabbit breeds?
Small rabbit breeds typically live for 7-10 years, though some can live longer with proper care and a healthy lifestyle.
Are small rabbit breeds easy to care for?
Yes, most small rabbit breeds are relatively easy to care for. They require a balanced diet, regular grooming, and a clean living environment to thrive.
Can small rabbit breeds be kept indoors?
Absolutely! Small rabbit breeds are well-suited for indoor living. They adapt well to a domestic environment and can be litter-trained, making them excellent indoor pets.
Conclusion: Small Rabbit Breeds
Finally, it can be said thay -in today’s world where the hustle and bustle often overwhelms simple pleasures, this little creature reminds us that the best things in life really do come in small sizes.
This little friend provides countless moments of laughter and joy in your life. A pet rabbit means you are getting a faithful friend whose presence will bring love and tranquility into your life.
They are unique as pets because they are easy to handle and personable. And so, if you are an animal lover and want to adopt a pet in your home then you can easily keep a small breed of rabbit.
