Mini lop rabbits are small, but not the smallest of the lop breeds. The American mini lop is actually considered a mid-weight rabbit, at around six pounds. This can cause some confusion since there is a British-recognized miniature lop – which is much smaller – and the name is sometimes also shortened to mini-lop as well. Here, however, we will specifically be talking about the American breed.
An Unfinished History
The history of the mini lop, as it is documented in the United States, begins with a man named Bob Herschbach. Herschbach discovered the breed at a German show in 1972 where it was called Klein Widder, and weighed about eight pounds. Herschbach bred his own Klein Widder’s in the United States the same year and presented them to the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) two years later. They recommended a smaller size and a name change to appeal to Americans. By 1978, the breeder association had been formed and the breed was officially sanctioned by the ARBA. It has gone on to be one of the most popular rabbit breeds in the country and one of the most common pet rabbit breeds.
Unfortunately, we have lost to history who developed those original Klein Widder rabbits. While Bob Herschbach certainly deserves the credit for his work in developing the breed, it’s a shame we don’t know more about their original creator.
How Do You Care for Mini Lop Rabbits?
Mini lops should never be heavier than 6.5 pounds, with females being slightly heavier than males. A heavier rabbit may be a sign of obesity, which carries the same risk in rabbits as in humans and other pets. Mini lops are generally calm rabbits that enjoy attention. If your rabbit becomes agitated or exhibits aggressive behaviors, this may be a sign of illness or a problem in the environment.
While mini lops have the same issues as other rabbit breeds and require much the same care, their ears also require extra attention. Lop-ears on rabbits are a product of breeding, not nature, and they are hard for rabbits to groom properly on their own. They can develop infections, mites and wax build-ups. Recommendations call for weekly cleanings and even then, warn that this will probably only reduce the risk of ear infections. Finding a good vet in your area willing to treat rabbits is a wise idea before choosing this breed. On average, mini lops live eight to ten years.
Showing Mini Lops
Out of a total of one hundred points, the mini lop’s head and body are worth sixty-three points. Judges look for a compact, thick body with a wide head and shoulders. Solid muscles, a short neck and balanced proportions are signs of a healthy rabbit with good body conformation. A long face, body or neck are faults.
The ears are worth twelve points. Combined with the crown – the point where ears connect to the head – this is one of the most complicated parts of judging. The ears must be firmly connected, hang vertically and form a horseshoe around the rabbit’s face. There should be no creases in the ear and size should be proportional to the head.
The legs, feet and bone structure combine for a worth of only five points. As with all rabbits, the feet should be straight and parallel. The bone structure should be strong and the legs short and thick enough to support the weight of the rabbit easily.
Unlike the Jersey Wooly rabbit, fur is likewise given little consideration, provided it looks healthy, is the proper length and shows no other concerning traits. Interestingly, color is not considered in mini-lops unless all other traits between rabbits have been judged equal.
Mini Lops: A Popular Pet
Like many of the smaller rabbit breeds such as the polish rabbit, mini lops are popular pets and show animals. Their size, calm demeanor and ease of care make them an attractive companion option for other people or those interested in a quieter pet.
This article about mini lop rabbits was written for Hobby Farms magazine. Click here to subscribe.
