Environment
Fact-checked

At AllThingsNature, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is a Lionhead Rabbit?

Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn

Full of fluff and a lion-like mane surrounding the head, the lionhead rabbit is becoming a popular, sought out breed of rabbit by individuals as well as groups in the rabbit show circuit. It is unclear where the lionhead rabbit originated, though it is thought to be either Belgium or England. In either case, the lionhead was an accidental mutation, possibly from a mistake when breeding the angora dwarf rabbit, but it was a welcome mistake, and the lionhead rabbit quickly gained admiration for their unique appearance, friendly disposition, and ability to be trained. This occurred sometime in the 1990's, making it the first rabbit mutation in almost 100 years.

In 1999, the lionhead rabbit found its way to the United States. Rabbit enthusiasts have been working on getting the lionhead recognized as a breed by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), but as of February 2009, they have been unsuccessful. However, the British Rabbit Standards Breed Committee (BRSBC) has, in fact, acknowledged the lionhead rabbit as a breed, and standards have been established.

Frog
Frog

Per the BRSBC, the recognized colors are agouti, black otter, blue, chinchilla, harlequin, magpie, opal, orange, and white. The body should be rounded, with a bold head and muzzle. Leg length should be medium, and when erect, the chest should be fully viewable. Ears should be no more than three inches (7.6 cm) and eyes should be bold and bright. The lionhead rabbit mane surround the entire head, forming a full circle. These rabbits weigh about three lbs (1.4 kg).

Lionhead rabbits offer the best of both worlds in the grooming department. They have the striking long hair length of the jersey wooly, but only surrounding the head. This enhances their appearance while reducing the grooming time associated with other long haired rabbits. The long hair, or mane, surrounding the head can be either single or doubled maned. This is important to note as it effects the probability of producing a maned rabbit when breeding.

If two double maned lionheads mate, the offspring will be 100% double maned. This is not ideal, as with each new generation, the mane will become too exaggerated, and spots of long hair will grow in undesirable places. Lionhead rabbit breeders are careful to introduce rabbits with no mane and rabbits with a single mane into the mix to preserve the desirable length and fullness of hair. The current ARBA standards in progress are exclusive to the single maned lionhead rabbit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Lionhead Rabbit?

A Lionhead Rabbit is a small breed of domestic rabbit recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA). It is distinguished by a wool mane encircling the head, reminiscent of a lion's mane. This breed is known for its friendly and well-mannered temperament, making it a popular pet choice.

How big do Lionhead Rabbits get?

Lionhead Rabbits typically weigh between 2.5 to 3.5 pounds and are considered a small rabbit breed. They have a compact, rounded body shape and their mane adds to their perceived size. Despite their fluffy appearance, they are quite petite when fully grown.

What are the grooming requirements for a Lionhead Rabbit?

Lionhead Rabbits require regular grooming due to their unique wool mane. Owners should brush their mane at least once a week to prevent matting and remove loose fur. During shedding season, more frequent grooming may be necessary to keep their coat in good condition and reduce the risk of wool block.

What is the lifespan of a Lionhead Rabbit?

Lionhead Rabbits have a lifespan of around 7 to 10 years when properly cared for. This includes providing a balanced diet, regular veterinary check-ups, a safe living environment, and daily interaction. Their longevity can be influenced by genetics, diet, and overall quality of care.

Can Lionhead Rabbits live with other pets?

Lionhead Rabbits can live with other pets, such as gentle dogs and cats, if proper introductions are made and the animals are supervised. It's important to ensure that other pets do not exhibit predatory behavior and that the rabbit has a safe space to retreat to if needed.

What kind of habitat is best for a Lionhead Rabbit?

The ideal habitat for a Lionhead Rabbit is a spacious enclosure that allows for ample movement, with areas for sleeping, eating, and litter training. It should be indoors to protect the rabbit from extreme temperatures and predators. Enrichment items like toys and hiding places should be provided to stimulate their mental and physical well-being.

Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn

Joining the AllThingsNature team has helped to satisfy Hillary’s insatiable curiosity for knowledge. She also manages an electronic publishing business that allows her to develop her skills in technical writing, graphic design, and business development. Hillary has a passion for satirical writing and enjoys traveling, especially to places of historical importance.

Learn more...
Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn

Joining the AllThingsNature team has helped to satisfy Hillary’s insatiable curiosity for knowledge. She also manages an electronic publishing business that allows her to develop her skills in technical writing, graphic design, and business development. Hillary has a passion for satirical writing and enjoys traveling, especially to places of historical importance.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

Niemka

Lionheads, Dwarfs and Lionheads Mini Lops are acknowledged also in Scandinavia`s "Nordisk-Standard" (Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Norway). At this time we're trying to get into the German BDK-Standard (Lion-Dwarfs and Lion-Lops).

The roots of Lionhead are found in Netherland Dwarfs, Fox-Rabbits (I don't know name in USA) in one side of breeding, the second main stream are the races angora and "Genter Baarden" (belgic bearded rabbits, originally form France, "Lapin Lion=Lion Rabbit". Gender Bearden are recognized in Belgium, Austria, Luxembourg and Germany (BDK).

anon32965

The ARBA does have a "working Standard" in place in the variety of Siamese Sable *only*. The Standard itself makes no mention of the mane gene, whether it be single or double. There are limitations on length of wool found anywhere other than in the mane area, as well as a minimum length for mane wool, and several disqualifications with regard to mane wool or lack thereof.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Frog
      Frog