Breed profile - Dwarf Lop

Probably Britain's most popular pet rabbit, the Dwarf Lop is a surprisingly big rabbit. Contrary to the name, it is not actually a dwarfed rabbit, rather a smaller version of the larger French Lop.

Size

Medium sized! Ideal show weight is 4.8lb, but most pet quality Dwarf Lops grow between 4.5 to 6lb. Have the leg ring removed if you buy an ex show rabbit. - it is likely to get too tight.

Colour

Just about anything you fancy, including 'butterfly' patterned (white blotches on a coloured background). Sooty fawns, agoutis, whites and sables are currently popular.

Grooming

Thick medium length coat. grooming required 2 - 3 times a week and daily during moult.

Temperament

Usually cheerful and outgoing. Some females are especially stroppy until they are spayed; un-neutered males tend to be complete sex pots and will take it out on your cuddly toys, shoes and feet!

Health problems

Bad news here. The round head and flat face predispose to dental disease. Front teeth malocclusion is common - buy from a reputable breeder. Back teeth problems develop later – regular veterinary checks and pet health insurance are strongly advised. Eye trouble increasingly common. If you adopt a rescue dwarf lop, consider an adult that has had a careful dental check at the time of neutering.

Life span

Potentially long lived - but only if you escape the dental problems.

In the house

Deservedly popular as houserabbits.

Availability

Take your pick. There's usually plenty available in rescue centres. Avoid woolly coated ones - they are a matted welfare disaster.

Fascinating fact

The nearest US/European equivalent breed is the Holland Lop. The long haired version is the Cashmere Lop - best avoided unless you have an interest in home spinning. If you actually want a dwarf sized lop, you need to find a miniature lops instead!

Alternative Breeds

The long coated version of the Dwarf Lop is called the Cashmere Lop, which is best avoided unless you have an interest in home spinning or have time to dedicate to daily grooming which is a must to prevent mats forming. If you like Dwarf Lops but would prefer a smaller rabbit then the UK Miniature Lop, makes a good alternative along with keeping the good temperament known in the Lops and is also available in nearly every colour possible.