Heavy Breeds of Rabbits

Rabbits are small mammals that dwell in deserts, forests, wetlands and grasslands. Male rabbits are typically called bucks, and female rabbits are called does. Baby rabbits are called kits. Rabbits vary in breeds and sizes. A rabbit is considered heavy if it weighs more than 9 lbs. These heavy breeds of rabbits cannot be kept in cages with wire flooring, because they will develop sores on their foot or hocks.

  1. Flemish Giants

    • Flemish Giants are an old breed of domesticated rabbits whose color varies from black to blue, brown, gray and white. Flemish Giants can be found in Europe or North America. A Flemish Giant typically weighs 10 to 15 lbs. or more and has a docile temperament. Its body structure can be described as semi-arched, and its fur is glossy and dense. A male Flemish Giant can be distinguished from a female Flemish Giant by its broad and big head. Additionally, female Flemish Giants often have a large fold of skin under their chins.

    Champagne d'Argent

    • The Champagne d'Argent is an old breed of rabbit. It is not commonly found in North America. This breed is born with a black coat that turns silver gray three weeks after birth. A Champagne d'Argent typically weighs 12 to 18 lbs.

    Checkered Giants

    • Checkered Giants are an active breed from Germany. This breed was introduced to America in 1910. The breed comes in white with blue, black or gray spots, and weighs 11 lbs. or more. The Checkered Giant has a body form that is similar to that of a hare. Its body is well arched, and its stomach does not touch the floor.

    Belgian Hare

    • The Belgian Hare is a rabbit that looks more like a hare. It has a dense red coat, hazel eyes, and typically weighs 11 to 13 lbs. Its legs, ears and body are usually long. Belgian Hares are intelligent and can be trained to perform tricks. This breed cannot give birth naturally after it reaches a year old because its pelvic bone fuses.

    Giant Beveren

    • The Giant Beveren breed originated from western Belgium, but it can be found in North America. This breed comes in black, white and blue with dense and glossy fur. Giant Beverens weigh 10 to 12 lbs. Baby Giant Beverens are large and grow fast.