by Angie Pollock

Created on: August 16, 2009

Out of the 47 rabbit breeds currently recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), 13 rank in the "small breed" category. Typically, these breeds have an ideal weight of less than five pounds when mature. Most breeds of rabbit average from 2 to 11 pounds and those over 5 pounds will fit in the other three size categories which include medium, large, and giant.

American Fuzzy Lop

This unique breed has only been officially recognized since 1988. Also known as "Head of the Fancy", the American Fuzzy Lop has an ideal weight of 3 1/2 pounds for bucks and 3 1/4 pounds for does. For registration, bucks and does cannot weigh more than 4 pounds. This small rabbit breed is recognized in 19 different colors which include broken and solid colors.

Britannia Petite

In Great Britain this breed is known as the Polish and was renamed when imported into North America. Dubbed "The Fancy's Elite", the Britannia Petite has a maximum registration weight of 2 1/2 pounds for both bucks and does. Recognized colors include black, black otter, chestnut, sable marten, and the ruby-eyed white although other colors are currently being considered by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA).

Dutch

The Dutch breed is one of the older breeds of rabbit and one of the first breeds recognized by the National Pet Stock Association (ARBA's predecessor). Preferred weight for the Dutch is 4 1/2 pounds. Registration weight can be from 3 1/2 to 5 1/2 pounds for both bucks and does. Recognized colors include white with black, blue, chocolate, gray, steel, or tortoise markings. The Dutch has been nicknamed "World's Finest Show Rabbit".

Dwarf Hotot

The Dwarf Hotot is "The Eyes of the Fancy" which is understandable when seeing this breed's appearance. This breed is solid white with either black or chocolate lining circling the eyes. Officially recognized by ARBA in 1984, the Dwarf Hotot has an ideal weight of 2 1/2 pounds. Both bucks and does can have a maximum weight of 3 pounds for registration.

Florida White

The Florida White rabbit cannot be found in varying colors or patterns. This pink-eyed, solid white breed is one of the larger rabbits found in the small-sized rabbit breed category. Model weight is 5 pounds and for registration, bucks and does can weigh 4 to 6 pounds. In 1999, the Florida White was named ARBA National Convention Best in Show and has been hailed as "The Little White Rabbit That Fills So Many Needs".

Himalayan

Officially recognized

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