Dwarf rabbit
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 | This article's factual accuracy is disputed. |
Dwarf rabbits are a variety of domestic European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Dwarf rabbits are much smaller than European rabbits, but are capable of interbreeding with them, so are not recognized as a separate species.
Purebred dwarf rabbits weigh 1.5-3.0 lb. Their heads and eyes are disproportionately large with respect to their body, and their ears are small and carried high on the head. The exception to this is the dwarf lop — a cross between the French lop and the dwarf — which is both heavier (3.0-4.0 lb) than a standard dwarf and has long, dangling ears. Many different colorations make up breeds in dwarf rabbits, such as Himalayan, Red, Siamese, Chinchilla, Blue, and White-tipped Black.
Dwarf rabbits were originally bred as pets in The Netherlands. Dwarf rabbits generally have the same behavioral traits as other domestic rabbits, though the smaller dwarf rabbits can be more skittish and quick to exhibit aggressive behavior, as their small size can cause them to feel more threatened than a standard size rabbit. They also tend to be more energetic and "high-strung". They can be housetrained and can be socialized with dogs and cats. However, they are extremely fragile animals and easily stressed, and do not make good pets for young children.
Most of the rabbits sold as dwarves in pet stores are not true dwarfs, but crosses between a dwarf and a standard rabbit. These "mongrels" are hardier, but grow to a larger size and lack the characteristic small head and low carriage of the true dwarf.
Like other domestic rabbits, dwarf rabbits consume grasses, grains, and other succulent greens. Their digestive system is somewhat less hardy than European rabbits, and many leafy vegetables such as lettuce and cabbage can give them health problems.