Common Name: Mini Lop Rabbit
Scientific Classification: Oryctolagus cuniculus domesticus (domestic rabbit breed)
Origin: Germany, 1950s–60s (developed from the German “Klein Widder,” later refined in the U.S.)
Breed Recognition: Recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) in 1980
Note: The Mini Lop in the U.S. is different from the UK “Miniature Lop,” which is closer in size to the Holland Lop
Size: Medium breed (larger than Holland Lop, smaller than French Lop)
Weight: 2.5–3.6 kg (5.5–8 lbs)
Body: Compact, muscular, and rounded (nicknamed the “basketball with a head”)
Head: Broad, with a short neck and well-developed crown (fur pad around the ear base)
Ears: Thick, lopped ears that hang close to the cheeks
Fur: Dense, soft, rollback coat
Colors: Wide variety—over 20 ARBA-recognized, including agouti, chinchilla, tortoiseshell, sable point, broken patterns, and solid colors
Lifespan: 7–12 years with good care
Personality:
Gentle, affectionate, and outgoing
Playful and intelligent—can be litter-trained and learn tricks
Social Needs: Thrive on human companionship and can bond strongly with owners
Behavior:
Energetic but also enjoy cuddles
Less timid than Netherland Dwarfs, but more active than Holland Lops
Known for being good with children (if supervised)