by Angie Pollock

Created on: August 16, 2009

Rabbit breeds can vary greatly in their appearances, coat colors, and even their size. Rabbits can generally be broken down into four size groups: small, medium, large, and giant. Out of the 47 breeds recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), 16 breeds are classified in the "medium" sized group which generally average 6 to 9 pounds in weight.

American Sable

Due to their drop in popularity and almost extinction in the early 1980s, the American Sable was almost dropped as a recognized breed by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA). Diligent breeders and efforts made with the formation of the American Sable Rabbit Club saved the American Sable and the breed continued. Still, it is estimated that there are only approximately 500 to 800 American Sable rabbits in the United States today. Ideal weight for the American Sable buck is 8 pounds while does is 9 pounds. Registration weight is 7 to 9 pounds for bucks and 8 to 10 pounds for does.

Belgian Hare

Also known as the "King of the Fancy", the Belgian Hare is attributed with being the establishment breed for the US rabbit industry. They are not the first domestic rabbit breed in the US however; they are one of the first brought into the States. This breed's status is threatened with an approximate population of less than 1,000 Belgian Hares worldwide. Ideal weight for both bucks and does is 8 pounds. For registration, bucks and does can vary in weight from 6 to 9 1/2 pounds.

English Angora

Believe it or not, the official ARBA guide book states that the English Angora should have the "appearance of a round ball of fluff". Dubbed "The Bunny with a Bonus", the English Angora is definitely a unique breed with a distinctive appearance. The history of this breed can be dated back to the 18th century and was imported into the US during the 19th century. Ideal weight for the English Angora is 6 pounds for bucks and 6 1/2 pounds for does. Registration bucks should be 5 to 7 pounds and does 5 to 7 1/2 pounds.

English Spot

The "Spotted Beauty of the Rabbitdom" or the English Spot is a white rabbit with black, blue, chocolate, gold, gray, lilac, or tortoise markings. During its earlier history, this breed was also called the English Butterfly or Papillon (French for "butterfly"). As the interest in the Belgian Hare began to decline in the US, attention began to focus on the English Spot. Perfect markings of an English spot include eye circles, spots on the cheeks, chain

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