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.
House pet, show animal
Families with children, first-time owners, singles, couples, seniors
England
Friendly, curious, energetic, sweet, lively
No
5-9 years
Medium, about 14-15 inches
5-8 lbs
About 18 inches
Approx. 18-20 inches
Flyback, short, dense
Long, colored, erect
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
Low
High
It sheds throughout the year, requires frequent brushing (twice or thrice a week) when shedding is high in the spring.