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English Spot

By | Last Updated: 18th December 2019

The English Spot is a breed of medium-sized domestic rabbits known for its lively nature and the characteristic colored markings on its body. It is distinguished by its arched body, well-rounded hips, long legs, cheek spots, eye circles, butterfly nose, and a solid, straight-line called ‘herringbone’ that runs along its backbone. The breed was first developed in England during the 1850s for show purposes.

It is believed to have evolved from the Giant Papillon (previously called Great Lorrainese), while some think that it might have been developed from the English Butterfly rabbit. This new breed first appeared in the US in the late 19th century. It gained recognition from the American Rabbit Breeders Association in 1924.

Basic Information

How big do they get

Size

Medium, about 14-15 inches

Weight

5-8 lbs

Height

About 18 inches

Width

Approx. 18-20 inches

What do they look like

Fur Type

Flyback, short, dense

Ear Type

Long, colored, erect

Color

Black English Spot

Blue English Spot

Chocolate English Spot

Gold English Spot

Gray English Spot

Lilac English Spot

Tortoise English Spot

Care Level

Low

High

Wipe out the litter box using a sponge and soak it in a mixture of vinegar and water twice a week. Spot-clean the bedding every day and replace it every week.

Cage Size

An indoor cage measuring 24 X 36 inches at least, with an approximate height of 20 inches is needed. Use larger enclosure, like a 6 X 2 X 2 feet hutch, to keep a group of bunnies.

Diet

Hay (makes up 70% of its regular diet), pellets (1/4 cups a day), a handful of fresh leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables per day (fennel, asparagus, pumpkin, carrots, radishes, watercress, and cucumber) will lessen the risks of health problems like dental diseases

GROOMING

Occasional

Regular

Brush your rabbit’s hair using a slicker brush once or twice a week; check its ears every week for signs of infection like waxy build-up and foul smell

ACTIVITY

Low

High

Your English Spot bunny, being an active breed, should get at least 2-3 hours of regular exercise outside of its enclosure. Allow it to run, jump, play, and roam in a fenced yard.

COST

Low

High

While the prices of show-quality rabbits are higher than those just meant to be kept as pets, the cost of keeping it is average.

SHEDDING

Low

High

It sheds throughout the year, requires frequent brushing (twice or thrice a week) when shedding is high in the spring.

English Spot

Did You Know

  • The English Spot is considered one of the oldest fancy rabbit breeds.
  • It is named the English butterfly rabbit because of the butterfly marking around its nose.

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