Rabbit Breeding

Mini Lop Rabbits – Adorable Imports with a Mysterious Past

Among the smallest of the rabbit breeds, the Mini Lop is popular throughout the world as both a pet and a breeding rabbit.

Mini Lops were originally bred from a rarer German lop called the “Kleine Widder” and an unknown form of smaller rabbit, quite which one is however unclear, although some breeders believe it was a small chinchilla, not another rabbit at all.

They were first recognized as a breed in American in 1982, but in the English competitions they have yet to be accepted to a show category.

The average Mini Lop weighs between five and six pounds and has a broad chest and thick, short legs. Their characteristic floppy ears hang well below their face.

The Mini Lop is bred in a rainbow of color combinations but not all of them are acceptable in the competitive rabbit. Blue Seal, Chocolate and Seal Point Mini Lops are all extremely attractive but their hues are not yet considered show worthy.

Great for Kids and Grown Ups Too

The Mini Lop is an especially popular pet with young children. They are not as delicate as some small breeds, and enjoy being handled. They are fairly intelligent and can be litter trained successfully.

Those who own them feel that the Mini Lop appreciates affection and attention and is more like a small pet dog than a rabbit. They like to play with all kinds of toys, and will even chase a soccer ball around if they have a companion to interact with.

Love to be Out and About

Although they can be comfortably housed in a smaller cage, the Mini Lop will not appreciate being shut up for long periods of time, and thrives on exercise and play time.

They require grooming at least once a week, but their coat is not as difficult to maintain as longer haired breeds such as Angoras.