11 Exotic and Rare Rabbit Breeds (With Pictures)

After cats and dogs, rabbits are one of the most popular types of pets. They’re docile, so they aren’t prone to attacking people. They tend to be sociable, although this does depend on the level of socialization they had when they were young and developing. They can also be trained, at least to use a litter tray. However, they do need to be properly cared for and their hutches and runs can take up more space than a lot of potential owners are prepared for. Their popularity means that there are many different species of rabbits to choose from when buying a new pet.

Below, we have listed 11 of the more exotic, unusual, and rare breeds that you can keep as a pet, in case you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary or are looking to exhibit or show your pet rabbit.

The 11 Exotic and Rare Rabbit Breeds

1. Angora Rabbits

First bred in Turkey, Angora rabbits are actually one of the oldest breeds of domesticated rabbits and they can take many different forms and sizes. Giant Lop Angoras are quite popular, while the Satin Angora is even softer and smoother than its cousins. Depending on the exact breed of Angora, you can expect to pay up to about $250 for a single Angora Rabbit but for this money you can expect a smooth and soft rabbit that likes to be held and provides plenty of love to its humans. They make especially good pets for children because they do like to be picked up and carried.

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2. Columbia Basin Pygmy Rabbits

As you might have guessed from the term pygmy in the name, the Columbian Pygmy Rabbit is a very small rabbit species, typically weighing less than a pound. The rabbit is only native to a specific area of Washing in the US. Unfortunately, the tiny breed is nearly extinct in the wild, with slightly more than a dozen known examples having been taken by the Washing Department of Fish & Wildlife in 2001. These are known to be the smallest species of rabbit in the world and their rarity, combined with the fact that they are close to extinction, means that they cannot be bought as pets.

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3. Dwarf Hotot Rabbits

Dwarf rabbits tend to be slightly bigger than Pygmies but are still very small. The Dwarf Hotot, which is also commonly referred to as the “eyes of the fancy”, is a white rabbit except for black rings around its eyes. The breed was developed in Germany in the 20^th century and they have been shown in the US since the 1980s. The breed is known as a good pet breed, but it does require a lot of handling from a young age if you want it to really integrate into family life and enjoy being handled.

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4. Harlequin Rabbits

Originating from France, the Harlequin is named for its beautiful coat that has alternating colors. This breed was once very popular but is now typically only kept by show enthusiasts. They are considered easygoing pets, although they do require plenty of socialization, and they are considered both smart and playful.

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5. Holland Lop Rabbits

Holland Lop Rabbits can weigh up to 4 pounds but typically come in at around the 3-pound mark. They are recognizable for their long, lop ears, and this breed can be expensive for one considered to be of good breeding and good show quality. Males are usually friendlier than females and the Holland Lop can be a little skittish, so may not be the best option for younger and more excitable children, and the breed does need to be given plenty of exercise time.

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6. Lionhead Rabbits

Another breed that may not be ideal for young children is the Lionhead Rabbit. This Belgian breed gets its name from the mane on top of its head which is reminiscent of a lion’s mane. The long hair needs regular grooming, and the Lionhead can be a nervous rabbit, which means plenty of early socialization and the offering of a good range of toys and activities.

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7. Mini Satin Rabbits

Satin rabbits are named for their smooth, satin-like coat. The Mini Satin Rabbit is a small rabbit, typically weighing no more than 4 pounds, that has this lustrous fur. The Mini Satin is a good pet rabbit that vocalizes when it gets excited and will happily spend time sitting on your lap once it has been socialized.

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8. Rex Rabbits

Animal lovers will know of the Rex breeds of cats, but Rex Rabbits are less well known. These are larger rabbits, weighing around 10 pounds, and they have short fur that can be black, brown, or white, among other colors. The Rex tends to make a good pet that will get along with most family members but may be cautious around younger children.

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9. Mini Rex Rabbits

The Mini Rex Rabbit was created by crossing Rex Rabbits with Netherland Dwarf Rabbits and the resulting bunny is considered a very good pet breed. Its calm nature and loving attitude have even seen the Mini Rex used as a therapy pet. It will get along with family members of all ages.

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10. Sumatran Striped Rabbits

Sumatran Striped Rabbits are very rare, only being found in a single location in Indonesia. Its habitat continues to be destroyed and the breed’s numbers are suffering as a result. The rarity and conservation status of the Sumatran Striped Rabbit mean that it is not available as a pet rabbit, but it is rare and exotic. It has physical characteristics that make it look more like a hare than a rabbit, with its long and muscular legs and body.

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11. Volcano Rabbits

Weighing less than a pound, the Volcano Rabbit is one of the smallest species in the world and, unfortunately, it is also highly endangered. It lives on the sides of four volcanoes in Mexico, all of which are no longer active. Its habitat is gradually being taken over, which means that its numbers are quickly dwindling and it isn’t a pet rabbit species.

Conclusion

Rabbits can make very good pets. They are cute, fun to watch, and have some intriguing habits and characteristics. Above are 11 of the rarest and most exotic species, including some that are unfortunately in danger of becoming extinct primarily due to humans destroying their habitat.

See also:

• 5 Rabbit Body Types (With Pictures)
• 23 Black Rabbit Breeds (with Pictures)

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Featured Image Credit: Sindii, Shutterstock