What Is a Lionhead Doe?

A Lionhead doe is a female Lionhead rabbit, one of the newest breeds of small domestic rabbits. Lionhead rabbits only weigh about three pounds and come in a multitude of colors and combinations of colors. They have small ears and long fur. Lionheads have a gentle, friendly personality and can make wonderful pets.

  1. What's in a Name?

    • A Lionhead rabbit got its name from the mane-like fur on its head, neck and chest, much like a male lion's mane. The mane forms a fringe around the rabbit's head and is usually longer on its chest, forming a bib. Sometimes the cheek fur is longer, too. The mane fur is 2 to 3 inches long and extends to a 'V' at the back of the neck. Both the male and female Lionhead rabbit can have the wooly mane. The double maned variety has the thickest mane. There are also single mane and no mane varieties of Lionhead rabbits. While the single and no mane varieties would not be used for showing, these rabbits can still be used in a breeding program.

    Where Did Lionheads Come From?

    • Lionhead rabbits are the result of crossbreeding other breeds of rabbits, creating a genetic mutation. Breeds such as Swiss Fox, European Dwarf Angora, and Belgian Dwarf are believed to be the early ancestors. When the breed was imported to England, breeders continued to cross them with small breed rabbits. The result became the European Lionhead rabbit.

    Lionhead Breed Status

    • In 2002, the British Rabbit Council recognized the erect-eared Lionhead rabbits as an official domestic breed. They are shown and judged for their body type, mane, coat, color and overall condition. To date, the American Rabbit Breeders' Association (ARBA) has not recognized the breed. Lionhead enthusiasts and breeders show Lionhead rabbits in exhibition shows and when allowed, they are presenting the breed at ARBA sanctioned shows as an exhibition breed. "Lionheaders" are working hard to have the breed recognized but currently they may not compete for Best In Show awards or earn Grand Champion status in the U.S. until the breed is officially recognized by the ARBA.

    Lionheads as Pets

    • Lionhead rabbits require the same kind of care as other rabbits though grooming might be needed for their long wooly manes. Set up a large cage or pen and provide a litter box in one corner. Rabbits need a balanced diet of fresh hay and good quality pellets along with occasional vegetable treats. Always provide fresh water. Rabbits like something to do and especially enjoy chewing, so be sure to provide safe toys and chewable items such as paper towel tubes. When you let them out to play, make sure wires and other hazards are out of reach. Rabbits also like a place to hide, so provide a cardboard box that it can use for a house. Pet rabbits should receive vaccinations and they should be spayed or neutered if they are not going to be bred.