Certainly! Let’s take a detailed look at Domestic Rabbits, all of which are breeds of the European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus):
🐰 4. Domestic Rabbits (Breeds of Oryctolagus cuniculus)
🔹 Overview
All domestic rabbits are descendants of the wild European rabbit, selectively bred over centuries for traits like size, color, coat type, temperament, and utility.
Today, there are over 300 recognized breeds worldwide, used as pets, show animals, or for meat, fur, and wool.
📚 Breed Classifications
Domestic rabbits are typically classified by:
Category
Examples
Size
Small, Medium, Large, Giant
Coat Type
Normal, Rex (plush), Satin (shiny), Wool (Angora)
Ear Type
Upright or Lop (floppy)
Purpose
Pet, Meat, Show, Fur, Wool
🏆 Popular Breeds by Category
🐇 Small Breeds (Under 4 lbs / 1.8 kg)
Breed
Traits
Netherland Dwarf
Very small, short ears, round head, energetic
Polish
Compact, calm, good for handling
Dwarf Hotot
White with black eyeliner rings, curious personality
🐇 Medium Breeds (4–6.5 lbs / 1.8–3 kg)
Breed
Traits
Mini Rex
Dense velvet-like coat, friendly, great pet
Havana
Soft fur, calm, good for shows
Mini Lop
Lopped ears, playful, cuddly
🐇 Large Breeds (6.5–10 lbs / 3–4.5 kg)
Breed
Traits
Rex
Plush velvet fur, gentle temperament
Silver Fox
Black fur with silver tips, calm and friendly
American Chinchilla
Used for meat and fur, dense coat
🐇 Giant Breeds (10+ lbs / 4.5+ kg)
Breed
Traits
Flemish Giant
Can reach 20+ lbs, docile and impressive
French Lop
Large, floppy ears, strong and relaxed
Checkered Giant
Bold markings, energetic and striking
🧶 Specialty Breeds (Fur or Wool)
Breed
Use
Traits
Angora (English, French, Giant)
Wool
Long, soft fiber harvested for spinning
Satin
Fur
Glossy, silky coat with sheen
American Fuzzy Lop
Pet
Wooly coat and lopped ears
🏡 Care Needs
Diet: Hay (80%), fresh greens, limited pellets, water.
Housing: Indoor or secure outdoor pens; need space and stimulation.
Grooming: Depends on breed—especially vital for long-haired types.
Socialization: Rabbits are intelligent and bond closely with humans or other rabbits.
Would you like a visual breed chart or help choosing a breed for a pet?
