11 of Smallest Rabbits in the World

Have you ever looked at rabbits and thought to yourself, “I wish they could just stay bunny-sized forever!” If so, you’re in luck. Although they may not be common, there are many species of rabbits that only grow to weigh a few pounds. These miniature rabbits maintain a bunny-like appearance all throughout their lives and some can fit in the palm of your hand. Today, we’ll discuss 11 of the smallest rabbits in the world.

1. Netherland Dwarf

Netherland dwarf rabbits are also sometimes called “Nethies.” These adorable and tiny creatures only weigh between one and a half and two and a half pounds on average. Even full-grown adult Nethies still have a baby-like appearance. Those with an untrained eye would certainly mistake them for bunnies at first glance! Although this breed is irresistibly adorable, they aren’t big on being held and prefer to bond through play rather than cuddles. This isn’t because they’re anti-social, it’s just because they’re balls of energy and would rather spend their time bouncing around all day. Although this is generally true, every Netherland dwarf rabbit’s personality will be different.

2. Dwarf Hotot

If you’re looking for a perfect pet rabbit, look no further than the dwarf hotot. People adore this breed because of their friendly nature and outgoing personality. Although the dwarf hotot may be tiny, weighing only three pounds on average, their personality is mighty. They love to play with their owners and other pets in the home. Some people tease that this rabbit is wearing “eyeliner” because of the black fur around their eyes. This is characteristic of the species, and all dwarf hotots are pure white with this dark eye ring marking.

3. Polish

The name of this breed is “Polish,” but the truth is that they actually originated in England. This tiny breed is especially popular in the show rabbit world. Weighing in at about three and a half pounds maximum, the key feature of Polish rabbits is their “large, bold and expressive eyes,” according to the American Polish Rabit Club. Unlike the other two rabbits we’ve discussed so far, the Polish rabbit has a more temperamental personality. Because of this, they do better in adult-only homes or those with older children.

4. Jersey Wooly

If you’ve decided you want a little rabbit but don’t know what breed to choose, the Jersey wooley has your name all over it. The incredibly relaxed personality of this rabbit makes them an excellent fit for first-time owners. In fact, they are so laid-back, that they have been given the nickname “no kick” bunny! In addition to not kicking, this three-pound rabbit also doesn’t bite and loves to curl up and cuddle with their owners.

5. English Angora

Have you ever dreamed of owning a living, breathing cotton ball? The English angora is just that! This fluffy species of rabbit is long-haired, so grooming them takes a bit more effort compared to other species on this list. However, this is relatively low maintenance, and you can get away with giving your English angora a few brushings per week to prevent matting. Compared to other angora rabbits, the English angora is the only small breed. This adorable rabbit weighs in at about three and a half to five pounds on average.

6. Mini Satin

The first satin rabbit appeared in 1934 when an Indiana man named Walter Huey was breeding his rabbits. Immediately taken aback by the texture and appearance of their fur, he sent these rabbits off to have genetic testing done by researchers at Harvard. Researchers concluded that the coat of these rabbits was caused by a genetic mutation, and thus, a new breed was formed.

Since then, this rabbit has picked up many nicknames, such as “Satinette” and “Team Sheen.” These were derived from their unmistakable silky, shiny fur. Although the satin rabbit has been around for decades, it wouldn’t be until the late 1900s that rabbit enthusiasts would begin breeding a mini satin. This process took nearly 30 years before they would be recognized as their own breed. According to the American Satin Rabbit Breeders Association, there are currently “14 satin varieties and 18 mini satin varieties.”

7. Lionhead

As you might have guessed from their name, the lionhead rabbit is another long-haired breed that almost looks like it has the mane of a lion! Because of this, it’s no surprise that this breed requires additional grooming compared to others. If you’re up for daily brushing and routine trimming, these rabbits make wonderful pets. High intelligence, friendliness, and trainability are three of their key characteristics. In addition, they are also very affectionate and love to spend time with their owners.

8. Mini Rex

This lovable breed of rabbit is relatively new compared to others on this list. The mini rex was first bred in the 1980s by a woman named Monna Berryhill by pairing a dwarf rex and a lynx rex. This species is slightly bigger than our other entries and weighs in at four to five pounds on average. Despite this, it is still much smaller than regular rabbit breeds. The mini rex is perfect for families with children or other animals as it has a very relaxed temperament and enjoys socializing.

9. American Fuzzy Lop

The American fuzzy lop is a relatively new breed that first emerged in the late 1980s. At this time, breeders were attempting to make a Holland lop rabbit with broken colors as opposed to their typical solid coloration. To achieve this, Holland lops were bred with English spots, and their offspring carried the desired coloration.

Despite their success in selecting for the broken coloration, the texture of the fur of the offspring lost its fluffy quality. To remedy this, they began breeding Holland lops with French angoras. During this extensive selection process, a breeder named Patty Greene-Karl noticed that the “fuzzy” gene was recessive and began breeding for it specifically. She named her creation the “American fuzzy lop,” which weighs only about three to four pounds.

10. Miniature Cashmere Lop

While we’re still on the subject of the Holland lop’s history, let’s dive into the miniature cashmere lop. This breed is believed to be another product of mating Holland lops with French angoras. Although these rabbits are closely related to American fuzzy lops, their coat is comprised of smooth, silky fur instead of wool. This breed is popular among pet owners and show rings alike. Although they might be small in size, they have athletic bodies and train very well.

11. Columbia Basin Pygmy Rabbits

The Columbia Basin pygmy rabbit takes the title of the smallest rabbit in the world. This shockingly tiny species weighs in at less than one pound. Although it may be difficult to resist these adorable rabbits, try your hardest not to fall in love. The Columbia Basin pygmy is not suitable to be kept as a pet. This rabbit is a wild animal, so instead of trying to adopt one of your own, you can donate to conservation efforts for them. Currently, the Columbia Basin pygmy is an endangered species. The destruction of their habitat and disease are two primary threats to this species. To learn more about helping these tiny creatures, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has more information.

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