MINI LOP BUNNIES
CHARACTERISTICS OF A PURE BRED MINI LOP BUNNY
Mini Lops are a small size breed.
Their defining characteristic is their lopped ears.
They are short haired and are bred mainly as pets.
Mini lops are often bred by what are referred to as "Backyard Breeders". Unfortunately this means that not all mini lops are pure bred, and can have a number of faults or genetic abnormalities.
"Faults" can be caused by many factors, environmental, genetic, or lack of proper care. If purchasing a Mini Lop Rabbit it is important to get them de-sexed to prevent unwanted litters if you are not experienced in rabbit breeding.
Mini Lops are prone to ear infections, dental and respiratory problems and gastrointestinal stasis. Breeding rabbits without a clear understanding of their geneology and health status can result in kits who may suffer these issues unnecessarily. Below is a list of characteristics of an ideal mini lop, along with a few common issues that are considered to be "faults".
PIMPLES ON EARS
Can indicate ear mites, skin infections or other skin conditions.
POOR EAR CARRIAGE
Ears not hanging properly can be an indication of a health or genetic issue.
FOLDED EARS
This is due to a poor ear base and lack of front to back crown.
DEWLAPS IN DOES
While small dewlaps are normal for mini lops, a large dewlap can make it difficult for the bunny to groom itself, and may cause skin irritation.
RUMP
Muscled and well-rounded.
EYES
Bold, bright and large.
TEETH
Smooth, Creamy white. They should meet in a neat chisel-shaped bite.
BODY
Should be short, not long.
CROWN
The basal ridge of the ears should appear prominent across the top of the skull to form the crown.
EARS
Long, broad, thick ears that hang down close to their cheeks, forming a horseshoe around the rabbit's face.
HEAD WIDTH
There should be good width between the eyes, full cheeks, and a broad muzzle.
FRONT LEGS
The front legs are thick, short and straight.
HIND LEGS
The hind legs are parallel to the body and are short, strong and powerful.
FLY BACK COAT
The fur returns gradually back to position after being stroked.
HEAD
The profile of the head is strongly curved.
NECK
They have a short neck.
MUZZLE
They have a broad muzzle.
CHEEKS
They have full cheeks.
TAIL
Straight, strong and well furred.
WEIGHT
An ideal weight for a mini lop is 1.5-1.6kg. Mini Lops smaller than this may have stunted growth. If they are heavier, they may be considered obese.